Iowa Party Bites are a delightful combination of Midwestern comfort and party-ready convenience. This crowd-pleasing appetizer captures the heart of Iowa cuisine, combining hearty meats, creamy cheeses, and a crispy crust to create bite-sized snacks that disappear fast at any gathering.
Whether it’s game day, a holiday potluck, or just a casual get-together with friends, these savory bites bring everyone to the table. Bursting with flavor and easy to make ahead, Iowa Party Bites offer the perfect blend of taste, texture, and regional flair.
Their versatility makes them ideal for experimenting with different fillings or dips. Best of all, they’re baked—not fried—making them a lighter choice for party snacking. Get ready to experience a uniquely satisfying appetizer that’s destined to become a staple in your entertaining arsenal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork sausage (Iowa-style or seasoned)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
- Cooking spray or parchment paper for baking
Instructions
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with cooking spray.
• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork sausage until fully browned and no longer pink. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and allow it to cool slightly.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the cheeses are evenly incorporated and the mixture is cohesive.
• Unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean, flat surface. Press the seams together to form a single sheet. If you’re using the Dijon mustard, lightly spread it across the dough for an added kick.
• Cut the dough into small squares or rectangles, about 2 inches in size. Each piece should be big enough to hold about a tablespoon of the filling.
• Place a spoonful of the sausage-cheese mixture into the center of each dough square. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal and form a small pouch. If needed, use a bit of water on the edges to help them stick.
• Arrange the filled bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each to allow for expansion during baking.
• Bake the Iowa Party Bites in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crisp.
• Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm but are also delicious at room temperature.
• Optional: Serve with a side of ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard dip for added flavor variety.