Iowa Party Bites

These Iowa Party Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer! Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and served in crispy tortilla scoops, they’re perfect for game days, family gatherings, or any festive occasion. Quick, easy, and loaded with flavor, these bite-sized treats will disappear in no time!

Ingredients:

1 (10 oz) bag Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup diced green onions
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

1/4 cup diced jalapeños – For a spicy kick.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a deeper smoky flavor.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For an extra cheesy bite.

How to Make Iowa Party Bites:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, sour cream, crumbled bacon, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3. Fill the Tortilla Scoops

Arrange the Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips on the prepared baking sheet. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each chip with the cheesy mixture, ensuring they are evenly filled but not overflowing.

4. Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.

5. Cool & Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Garnish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for an added touch of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Helpful Tips for Perfect Iowa Party Bites:

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Don’t Overfill the Chips – Too much filling can cause spillage while baking.
Make Them Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
Crispier Bites? – Bake the tortilla scoops for 2-3 minutes before filling them for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

These Iowa Party Bites are delicious on their own, but they pair well with a variety of dips and sides:

Dipping Sauces: Salsa, guacamole, ranch dressing, or sour cream.
Side Dish Pairings: Serve alongside loaded nachos, stuffed jalapeños, or buffalo wings.
Party Platter Idea: Pair with sliders, pigs in a blanket, and mozzarella sticks for the ultimate appetizer spread.

Nutritional Information:

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 bites):

Calories: 150
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 220mg
Calcium: 10%

Storage & Leftovers:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes.
Freeze: These don’t freeze well, but you can prep the filling in advance and store it separately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use different chips?
Yes! Try mini pita chips or even homemade tortilla cups.

Can I add meat?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken, ground beef, or sausage crumbles would be great additions.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the filling ahead and store it in the fridge. Assemble and bake fresh when ready to serve.

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Conclusion:

These Iowa Party Bites are a quick, cheesy, and irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing game-day snacks, or just craving something indulgent, these crispy, creamy bites are sure to impress. Try them today and watch them disappear!