Step 1
Mix the pimento cheese, cream cheese and roasted garlic until well mixed
Step 2
Stuff each pepper half with the cheese mixture and wrap with bacon
Step 3
Place the peppers in a 375 degree oven for 8 minutes
Step 4
Combine the brown sugar and water and place the mixture on top of each pepper. Then place the peppers back in the oven for an additional 10 minutes until the bacon is crispy
Michael Ponzio is executive chef of the Union League Club in Chicago. Michael fell in love with the traditional culinary experience of Italian dining at a very young age. Chef Ponzio, who comes from a large, Italian family, grew up in a suburb just outside Chicago. So naturally, his first inspiration in the kitchen was his grandmother. Cooking became not only his skill, but his passion as well. Michael went on to receive his education in culinary arts at Kendall College in Chicago. When he is not in the kitchen, Michael spends his time with his wife and three children traveling and nurturing his passion for food and wine.