If you’re gearing up for football season or hosting a gathering, Iowa Party Bites are the perfect go-to snack! These bite-sized treats combine crispy tortilla chips with a creamy, cheesy filling that will leave everyone reaching for more. Perfect for game day or any crowd, these snacks are quick to make and incredibly satisfying. Best of all, you only need a few ingredients to whip up this tasty dish, making it a breeze to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
1 bag of Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips (10 oz)
1 block of cream cheese (8 oz), softened
8 oz of grated mozzarella cheese
1 egg
1 can of sweet corn (15 oz), drained
1 can of mild or medium green chiles (4 oz)
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of salt
½ teaspoon of black pepper
½ cup of shredded parmesan cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Baking Sheets: Lightly grease two large baking sheets with oil or line them with parchment paper. Arrange the Tostitos Scoops on the sheets, cup-side up, close together.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated mozzarella, egg, sweet corn, green chiles, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined into a smooth, creamy filling.
- Fill the Chips: Using a spoon, fill each tortilla chip with a generous amount of the cheesy mixture.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top of each filled chip to add an extra cheesy layer.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Let them cool slightly before serving, and enjoy these warm, gooey, and crunchy bites!
Tips and Variations:
Spice It Up: If you like a little kick, opt for hot green chiles instead of mild, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
Meat Option: You can also mix in cooked, crumbled bacon or shredded chicken to add some protein.
Cheese Swap: Feel free to substitute the mozzarella with sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Make It Gluten-Free: Double-check that your tortilla chips are gluten-free if needed, but most brands of Tostitos Scoops are already gluten-free.
How to Store Leftovers:
While these are best served fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warm and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the chips soggy.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the chips a few hours ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and bake them just before serving.
Q: What can I serve alongside Iowa Party Bites?
A: These bites pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. They also go great with other finger foods like chicken wings or sliders.
Q: Can I freeze Iowa Party Bites?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze these, as the tortilla chips may become soggy when thawed and reheated. They’re best enjoyed fresh.
Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply need a quick snack for a crowd, these Iowa Party Bites are sure to be a hit. Easy to make, easy to eat, and full of flavor—what more could you ask for?