Hot Bacon Cheddar Spread

Debby Taylor

This is another one of my “staple” appetizer recipes. With the addition of a little bit of food coloring it became a great orange dish for a Halloween buffet. This is a very savory spread that is easy to make and sure to please everyone. It is especially popular with children. You can substitute chopped pepperoni for the bacon if desired.

8 Ounces cream cheese, softened
½ Cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon crushed thyme
salt and pepper
orange food coloring
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ Cup sliced scallions
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
½ cup crushed ritz crackers

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, spices, and food coloring until well mixed. Add the cheddar cheese and scallions. Place in a shallow baking dish and sprinkle with bacon and crackers. Bake for 15 minutes.