Description
There’s something undeniably comforting about Midwestern gatherings. They’re filled with hearty laughs, warm hugs, and food that speaks to the soul. Among the plethora of dishes often shared at these gatherings, Iowa Party Bites hold a special place. These little gems are more than just appetizers; they’re a celebration of community and togetherness, wrapped up in cheesy goodness.
Picture this: a football game on TV, family and friends sprawled across the living room, and a big tray of warm Iowa Party Bites sitting at the center of the coffee table. The crunch of tortilla chips pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, while the smoky turkey bacon and optional kick of jalapeño deliver bursts of flavor in every bite. These snacks aren’t just food—they’re tradition, nostalgia, and pure joy rolled into a single mouthful.
What makes Iowa Party Bites even more special is their versatility. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, a holiday celebration, or just a casual weekend get-together, these little bites of heaven fit right in. They’re quick to prepare, easy to customize, and always a hit with guests of all ages. If you’ve been searching for a simple yet impressive appetizer, you’ve found it.
Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) package Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked, crumbled turkey bacon
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup diced jalapeños (optional, for a spicy kick)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. - Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Fold in crumbled turkey bacon, chopped green onions, and diced jalapeños if you want some spice.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Bites:
- Arrange the Tostitos Scoops on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are upright and ready to be filled.
- Use a small spoon or teaspoon to fill each chip with the cheese mixture. Be generous, but avoid overfilling to prevent the cheese from spilling out during baking.
- Bake the Bites:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cheese should melt and become slightly bubbly.
- For a golden, slightly crispy top, broil the bites for an additional 1-2 minutes. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear as your guests grab them by the handful!
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, omit the turkey bacon. You can substitute sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach for added flavor and texture.
- Reheating Tips: While best served fresh, these bites can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispiness. Simply bake at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.