SAVORY CHEESECAKE APPETIZER

This is the most unique appetizer - both sweet and savory, and for some reason you find yourself hovering, having eaten half of the dish.  Maybe that's just me.....

SAVORY CHEESECAKE APPETIZER

1/2 cup bread crumbs (plain or seasoned)

1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (room temp)

4 eggs, lightly beaten

1/4 cup blue cheese

1/4 cup whipping cream

1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled (about 5-6 slices)

1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped and sauted

1/2 cup red pepper, finely chopped and sauted

1/2 cup chives, chopped

1/4 cup assorted fresh herbs or 2 Tbsp dried herb blend

(Could add 1/4 cup boursin herb cheese)

Preheat oven to 325.  Spray and 8" (or two 4") spring form pan with non-sick spray.  Sprinkle pan with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese and set aside.

Place cream cheese, eggs, blue cheese, whipping cream, and boursin cheese into mixing bowl.  Stir to combine.  Add bacon, onion, pepper, chives and herbs.  Stir to combine.  Pour mixture over bread crumbs and parmesan in pan.

Bake for 50 - 55 minutes.  Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes, then refrigerate.

Run a knife around the edge when ready to unmold and serve.

Garnish with blue cheese crumbles or bacon.  Serve with crackers (best with gingerbread crackers.)

Source: Jane Robertson