Iowa Party Bites are savory, bite-sized snacks filled with sausage and cheese, perfect for any party or game day spread.
Introduction:
When it comes to party appetizers, few things are as crowd-pleasing as Iowa Party Bites. These savory, bite-sized snacks are packed with hearty ingredients like sausage, cheese, and buttery dough. Whether you’re hosting a big game day event or a casual get-together, these delicious bites are the perfect finger food. They’re easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and satisfying enough to keep your guests coming back for more. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying your party and less time in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a simple yet tasty dish to serve, Iowa Party Bites are the way to go!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
- Mix in Cheese and Spices: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 2: Assemble the Party Bites
- Roll Out Crescent Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles. Cut each triangle in half to create smaller triangles for bite-sized portions.
- Fill and Fold: Place a spoonful of the sausage and cheese mixture in the center of each dough triangle. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal.
- Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the dough with the beaten egg to give them a golden, shiny finish.
Step 3: Bake the Party Bites
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Arrange the filled bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
How to Prepare:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble the bites just before baking.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve these with a side of ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for extra flavor.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings:
- Yields: About 24 bites
FAQs:
1. Can I use different types of sausage?
- Yes! Feel free to use spicy sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage substitute for different flavors.
2. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
- Absolutely. You can add ingredients like chopped jalapeños, cooked bacon, or even sautéed onions and peppers for added flavor and texture.
3. Can I freeze Iowa Party Bites?
- Yes! Once baked, let the bites cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
4. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?
- Yes, puff pastry will work as a substitute. Just cut it into small squares, fill, and bake as directed.
5. How do I keep the bites warm at a party?
- You can keep them warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting or place them on a warming tray during the event.
Conclusion:
Iowa Party Bites are a simple and delicious addition to any party menu. With their savory sausage and cheesy filling wrapped in buttery crescent dough, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests. These bites are versatile enough to customize with different flavors or add-ins, making them a go-to appetizer for gatherings of all kinds. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party, game day, or casual get-together, these crowd-pleasing bites are quick to make and even easier to eat! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost, and watch them disappear in no time!
