Iowa Party Bites are bite-sized appetizers bursting with flavors of the Midwest. Made with simple, hearty ingredients, these tasty snacks are perfect for game day, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to serve something deliciously satisfying. Think of them as a cross between a savory pastry and a casserole—compact, cheesy, and absolutely crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or ground pork sausage (seasoned with salt and pepper)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced green onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
For Assembly:
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Add the diced butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the sour cream and knead the dough just until it comes together. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, cheddar cheese, green onions, cream cheese, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika). Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of the filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges to seal tightly. For extra security, crimp the edges with a fork.
Step 4: Add the Egg Wash and Bake
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash. Brush the tops of the party bites with the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Arrange the bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Iowa Party Bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or a tangy BBQ sauce.
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can assemble these bites a day ahead of time. Store them uncooked in the fridge on a parchment-lined baking sheet, covered tightly with plastic wrap. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
- They also freeze beautifully! Lay the uncooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the filling for a little heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with cooked mushrooms or black beans for a hearty, vegetarian version.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for an extra cheesy bite.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pie crust or crescent roll dough. They’ll still taste amazing.
What other meats work well in this recipe?
Shredded chicken, diced ham, or even bacon are excellent substitutes for the ground beef or sausage.
How do I keep them warm for a party?
After baking, you can keep them warm in a 200°F oven or a chafing dish for up to an hour.
Iowa Party Bites are the ultimate finger food for any occasion. With their flaky crust, cheesy filling, and endless customization options, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Make a double batch because these savory bites will fly off the plate
