SOUTHWEST APPETIZER CHEESECAKE

1 (8 ounce) pkg cream cheese, softened
8 ounces Ricotta cheese*
8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
1 package taco seasoning mix
8 ounces sour cream
3 eggs
1 can green chilies diced and drained
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
TO SERVE:
3/4 cup salsa
chopped scallions
chopped parsley

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

Beat cream cheese, ricotta, and cheddar cheese with taco seasoning. Add sour cream.

Beat in eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Fold in chilies and red pepper. Pour into prepared pan.

Bake at 350F for 50 minutes or until center of cake is firm. Cool on wire rack for 30 minutes. Refrigerate several hours or overnight. Freezes well.

TO SERVE:
Just before serving spread salsa over top of cake and garnish with parsley and scallions. Serve with chips or crackers.

*If you do not have ricotta, you can substitute an additional 8 ounces cream cheese.