Baked Endives with Bacon and Mascarpone

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 500.

2. 2

   Lightly oil a large glass or ceramic baking dish.

3. 3

   In a small saucepan, cook the bacon over moderate heat until crisp; drain on paper towels.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, mix the bacon, mascarpone, parsley and thyme and season with salt and pepper.

5. 5

   Using a small melon baller or spoon, scoop a little of the core from each endive half, leaving a shallow bowl.

6. 6

   Rub the endives lightly with the olive oil.

7. 7

   Spread 2 teaspoons of the mascarpone mixture on the cut side of each endive half, smearing it between the leaves.

8. 8

   Arrange the filled endives in the baking dish and sprinkle with the bread crumbs.

9. 9

   Bake for about 8 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the endives are just tender.

10. 10

    Preheat the broiler.

11. 11

    Broil the endives for about 1 minute, or until the bread crumbs are toasted.

12. 12

    Serve hot.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.