Iowa Party Bites are a delicious and hearty snack that are perfect for gatherings. They typically feature a savory combination of flavors, often including cream cheese, sausage, and spices. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:
Iowa Party Bites
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (like Jimmy Dean or a breakfast sausage)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- For the dough:
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Dough:
- If using crescent roll dough, unroll it and separate the triangles. If using puff pastry, roll it out and cut it into squares (about 3×3 inches).
- Fill and Fold:
- Place a spoonful of the sausage mixture in the center of each dough piece. Fold the edges over to enclose the filling and pinch to seal. You can also shape them into little pockets or triangles.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the filled dough.
- Bake:
- Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the bites just before baking.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or a spicy mustard.
- Variations: Try adding different cheeses, herbs, or spices to customize the flavor.
These Iowa Party Bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Let me know if you need more ideas or variations!