Savory Iowa Party Bites Recipe

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Golden, crispy, and brimming with rich Midwestern flavor, these Savory Iowa Party Bites are a delightful finger food perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a football watch party, attending a potluck, or just craving a fun appetizer, these bites deliver big satisfaction in small packages. Each one is a mouthful of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and a hint of onion, all nestled into a perfectly crisped wonton shell.

What makes them so special is how the textures and flavors balance—melty cheese against crunchy edges, savory notes from bacon paired with fresh herbs. They’re fast to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly snackable. Plus, they’re adaptable to your preferences, making them one of the best food ideas for party trays or even a quick dinner starter.

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Ingredients for Savory Iowa Party Bites Recipe

• 24 wonton wrappers
• 1 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Non-stick cooking spray

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Step 1: Prep the Wonton Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray. Gently press one wonton wrapper into each cup, folding edges slightly as needed to fit. Make sure they’re snug against the sides to form a nice shell. Lightly spray the tops of the wrappers to help them crisp up.

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Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped bacon, shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Season with a pinch of salt and a little black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly combined and creamy.

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Step 3: Fill and Bake

Spoon about a tablespoon of the filling mixture into each prepared wonton cup. Don’t overfill—just enough to fill the base neatly without spilling over. Once filled, place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges of the wonton wrappers are golden brown.

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Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the bites from the tin and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve warm and watch them disappear fast!

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (2 bites):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fiber: <1g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate them unbaked up to 24 hours in advance. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Do I have to use bacon?

Nope! You can substitute cooked sausage, chopped ham, or keep them vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

3. Can I use phyllo dough instead of wonton wrappers?

Wonton wrappers are sturdier, but phyllo cups can work in a pinch—just adjust baking time as needed.

4. How do I keep them crispy when reheating?

Use an oven or air fryer. Microwaving makes them soggy.

5. Are they gluten-free?

Standard wonton wrappers contain gluten. For a gluten-free option, use rice paper or gluten-free wonton wrappers if available.

6. What dipping sauces go well with these?

Ranch, chipotle mayo, or a spicy aioli complement the rich cheesy flavor.

7. Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Try pepper jack, gouda, or even a blue cheese crumble for a bold twist.

8. Can I serve these at room temperature?

They’re best warm, but they’ll still taste great at room temperature—ideal for buffets and potlucks.

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