mashed potato apps — Les Petites Gourmettes

Ingredients

• 3 pounds baking potatoes, peeled, cut into 1 – inch cubes
• 1/2 cup half and half
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4-ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced, divided
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons minced Italian parsley
• 6 slices bacon, chopped and cooked crisp
• 1/2 cup fresh bread crumbs
• 2-pound package mini sweet peppers (found at Costco in the cold produce section)
• Additional olive oil, for drizzling