Bite-sized, savory appetizers featuring a medley of Midwest-inspired flavors, Iowa Party Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. With a combination of sweet corn, cheddar cheese, smoky spices, and a crunchy phyllo shell, these little delights are perfect for game day, holiday gatherings, or any casual get-together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple and Quick: These bites come together in just 30 minutes, making them an excellent choice for last-minute hosting.
Versatile: They can be customized with or without bacon, making them great for both vegetarians and meat lovers.
Bursting with Flavor: The mix of sweet corn, tangy sour cream, and smoky paprika delivers a Midwest-inspired taste in every bite.
Perfect Party Size: Served in mini phyllo shells or on crackers, these are the ideal finger food.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them in advance, then bake just before serving for a stress-free event.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
24 mini phyllo shells or small cracker bases
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sweet corn, cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, green onions, and bacon (if using).
Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Spoon the mixture evenly into the mini phyllo shells or onto the cracker bases.
Place the filled shells on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the shells are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per serving
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon for a meat-free version.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack cheese for an extra zing or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cracker bases if you can’t find phyllo shells.
Dipping Sauce: Pair with ranch dressing or chipotle aioli for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as the shells may become soggy.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the bites in advance. Store them covered in the fridge, then bake just before serving.
Can I freeze these appetizers?
It’s best to freeze the filling separately and assemble the bites fresh, as phyllo shells can become soggy after freezing and thawing.
What can I use instead of phyllo shells?
Mini tart shells, sturdy crackers, or even hollowed-out cucumber slices work as alternatives.
Can I use fresh corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a wonderful crunch and sweetness. Just make sure to cook it lightly before using.
What’s the best way to serve these?
Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Conclusion
Iowa Party Bites are the ultimate go-to appetizer for any occasion. Whether I’m hosting a game day gathering or attending a potluck, these savory bites always steal the show. With simple ingredients, bold flavors, and endless versatility, they’re sure to become a staple in your party repertoire.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Iowa Party Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Iowa Party Bites are bite-sized appetizers featuring Midwest-inspired flavors like sweet corn, cheddar cheese, and smoky paprika. Perfect for parties, game days, and holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
24 mini phyllo shells or small cracker bases
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine sweet corn, cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, green onions, and bacon (if using).
- Stir in sour cream, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Fill mini phyllo shells or cracker bases with the mixture evenly.
- Place filled shells on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and shells are golden.
- Remove from the oven, cool slightly, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
To make vegetarian, omit the bacon.
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
To ensure crispiness, reheat in the oven instead of microwaving.
Use gluten-free cracker bases if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Midwest-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 bites
- Calories: 120 kcal per serving
