Loaded Garlic Bread

(Courtesy of Family Circle)

Ingredients:
6 slices bacon, each cut into 4 pieces
8 Tbsp. (1 stick) butter
6 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
1 loaf (12 oz.) crusty Italian bread, cut into 24 slices, about 1/2 inch thick
3/4 lb. mozzarella cheese, cut int 2 pieces, each cut into 12 slices

Directions:
Heat oven to 400 degrees.  Coat 2 leave baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

Place bacon in a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.  Cover with another piece of paper towel.  Microwave on high for 4 minutes or until slightly crisp.  Drain off fat and set aside.  When cool enough to handle, cut into thin strips.

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.  Add garlic and cook 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.  Remove from heat.

Place bread on baking sheets.  Spoon on butter and garlic.  Top each with a slice of cheese; sprinkle with bacon.  Bake at 400 degrees for 12-15 minutes, until cheese melts and bacon is crisp.  Cool slightly.