Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheesy Bread

1 loaf French/Italian bread

8 ounces cream cheese, softened*

12 ounces bacon, cooked and chopped

4 ounce can diced jalapenos

2 cups grated mild cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 400°F.

In a medium bowl combine the cream cheese, bacon, jalapenos and cheese. Stir until well combined.

Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Spread the cheese mixture on the bread. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes in preheated oven. Turn oven to broil for 1-2 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Remove from oven. Place on a cutting board and slice bread as desired. Serve and enjoy!

*COOK’S NOTE: The cream cheese is easier to work with if it has been on the counter for 30 minutes. But if you forgot you can whip them together with a hand mixer just as easily.