Festival Foods Featured Recipe: Grilled Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

• 20 wooden toothpicks
• 4 oz. Neufchatel cream cheese
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 green onion, finely minced
• ½ tsp. garlic powder
• 10 whole jalapenos
• 20 strips bacon
• Ranch dressing for serving

1. Soak toothpicks in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Preheat grill to medium heat and oil the grates.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onion and garlic powder until well combined.
4. Cut jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs.
5. Spread cheese mixture into each jalapeno half; do not overfill.
6. Wrap a slice of bacon around each jalapeno, ensuring cheese is covered. Secure with a toothpick.
7. Place jalapenos cut-side down and grill for 5-7 minutes. Flip jalapenos and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until bacon is cooked to desired crispiness.
8. Remove jalapenos from grill and enjoy with ranch dressing for dipping.

Oven Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onion and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Cut jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs.
4. Spread cheese mixture into each jalapeno half; do not overfill.
5. Wrap a slice of bacon around each jalapeno, ensuring cheese is covered. Secure with a toothpick.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bacon is browned and crispy. Enjoy with ranch dressing for dipping.