Cheddar-Veggie Appetizer Torte

A line forms quickly behind this quiche-like torte at family gatherings. The wedges are easy to eat as finger food, plus it's delicious hot or cold.

Cheddar-Veggie Appetizer Torte

Average Rating: 4.913043

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 25 min. Bake: 30 min. + cooling
YIELD: 16 servings.

Ingredients

  • 1-1/3 cups finely crushed multigrain crackers
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 small zucchini, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 carton (8 ounces) spreadable garlic and herb cream cheese
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons crumbled cooked bacon
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • 1. In a small bowl, combine cracker crumbs and butter. Press onto the bottom of a greased 9-in. springform pan. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. In a large skillet, saute the zucchini, mushrooms, onion and red pepper in oil until tender. Spoon over cheese.
  • 2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Stir in bacon. Pour over vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  • 3. Place pan on a baking sheet. Bake at 375° for 30-35 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen; remove sides of pan. Serve warm or chilled. Refrigerate leftovers.

Nutrition Facts

1 slice: 175 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 244mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.