Pepper Poppers

Ingredients:

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

1 cup (4 ounces) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1 pound fresh jalapeno peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded

    - Note: When cutting or seeding hot peppers, use rubber or plastic gloves to protect your hands and avoid touching your face.

1/2 cup dry bread crumbs

sour cream, onion dip and ranch salad dressing

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cheeses, bacon and seasonings; mix well. Spoon about 2 tablespoonfuls into each pepper half. Roll in bread crumbs. Place in a greased 15" x 1" baking pan. Bake, uncovered, at 300 degrees for 20 minutes for spicy flavor, 30 minutes for medium flavor, or 40 minutes for mild. Provide an assortment for dipping: sour cream, onion dip or ranch salad dressing. Yield: about 24 poppers