Description:
Iowa Party Bites are a classic Midwestern appetizer that shows up at potlucks, game days, holidays, and family gatherings. They’re rich, savory, and incredibly comforting—made with simple ingredients that come together into bite-sized snacks everyone loves. Crispy on the outside and creamy, cheesy, and meaty on the inside, these bites are perfect for sharing and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or pork sausage
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Colby-Jack)
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (or puff pastry, thawed)
Optional additions:
2 tbsp finely chopped green onions
1–2 tbsp chopped jalapeños for heat
Instructions:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cook the meat
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
Make the filling
Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese to the cooked meat and stir until melted and smooth.
Mix in shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the dough
Unroll the crescent dough and separate into triangles. Cut each triangle into smaller squares if you want bite-sized portions.
Assemble the bites
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each piece of dough. Fold the dough over and pinch edges to seal.
Bake
Arrange the bites seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
Serve
Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.
Serving Tips:
Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy dipping sauce
Perfect for parties, tailgates, or holiday trays
Can be made ahead and reheated in the oven