Iowa Party Bites are the perfect appetizer for any gathering, combining the crunch of tortilla chips with a creamy, cheesy filling that will have your guests reaching for more. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) bag Tostitos scoops tortilla chips (283 g)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened (226 g)
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (226 g)
- 1 egg
- 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, drained (425 g)
- 1 (4 oz) can green chiles, mild or medium (113 g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2.5 g)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for tops) (50 g)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will ensure a delightful crispiness to the tortilla chips while allowing the filling to heat through.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Grease two large baking sheets or line them with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
- Arrange Chips: Take the bag of Tostitos scoops and arrange the tortilla chips on the baking sheets with the cup side facing up. This is where the magic happens!
- Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, the egg, drained sweet corn, green chiles, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Scoop the Filling: Using a spoon, scoop approximately one tablespoon of the filling into each tortilla chip. Ensure that each chip is generously filled for maximum flavor.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the tops of the filled chips with grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a beautiful, golden crust once they’re baked.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 13-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the tops to be golden brown and the cheese bubbling.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the Iowa Party Bites from the oven. Let them cool for a couple of minutes, then serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors.
Nutritional Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 30 bites
- Calories: 120 per serving (varies depending on the size of chips and specific brands used)
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Softening the Cream Cheese: For easier mixing, ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature. You can microwave it for about 15-20 seconds if you’re short on time.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar or pepper jack can substitute mozzarella for a spicier kick.
- Batch Preparation: If you’re hosting a large party, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just scoop and bake before your guests arrive.
Possible Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Add some diced bell peppers or spinach to the filling mixture for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
- Meat Lover’s Delight: Incorporate cooked and crumbled sausage or shredded chicken to the filling to give your Iowa Party Bites a hearty protein kick, making them even more satisfying.
Iowa Party Bites are not just a dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and togetherness. Serve these at your next gathering, and watch them disappear!