Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make and packed with Midwestern flavors? These Iowa Party Bites are a delicious mix of savory pork, cheese, and buttery biscuit dough, baked to golden perfection. Inspired by Iowa’s love for pork and comfort food, these bite-sized snacks are perfect for game days, family gatherings, or potlucks!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground pork (or ground beef)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion

For the Dough:

• 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pork Mixture

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add Worcestershire sauce, shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and green onions. Mix until creamy and well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Separate the biscuit dough and flatten each biscuit into a 3-inch circle.

Step 3: Assemble the Bites

1. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture into the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the edges up and pinch them together to seal, forming a small pouch or ball.
3. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley.
2. Brush the tops of the bites with the garlic butter.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm with ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for dipping!

Cooking Notes

• Want extra crunch? Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
• Make them spicier! Add diced jalapeños to the filling.
• Prefer a softer filling? Substitute ground pork with sausage for more flavor.

Variations

1. BBQ Pork Bites

Swap Worcestershire sauce for BBQ sauce and use pepper jack cheese for extra kick!

2. Iowa Breakfast Bites

Add scrambled eggs and cooked bacon to the filling for a breakfast-friendly twist.

3. Low-Carb Version

Skip the biscuit dough and wrap the pork mixture in bacon, then bake until crispy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them up to a day in advance, store in the fridge, then bake when ready.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

3. Can I freeze them?

Yes! Freeze before baking and cook straight from frozen at 375°F for 18-20 minutes.

4. What dipping sauces go well with these?

Try ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo!

These Iowa Party Bites are the ultimate easy appetizer—savory, cheesy, and packed with Midwest comfort food flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, tailgating, or just want a quick snack, these bites will be a hit!