Description
Savory Iowa Party Bites – a crispy, cheesy appetizer made with seasoned meat, cream cheese, and crescent dough. Perfect for parties, game days, or potlucks!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground pork or beef
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 package crescent roll dough or puff pastry
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Mustard (optional, for dipping)
- Ranch dressing (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork or beef until browned.
- Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out crescent roll dough or puff pastry and cut into small squares or triangles.
- Assemble the Bites
- Spoon a small amount of the meat and cheese mixture onto each dough piece.
- Fold and pinch the edges to seal, forming small pockets or bites.
- Bake the Bites
- Place on a lined baking sheet and brush each with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with mustard, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
- Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pastry dough or serve as a dip with gluten-free crackers.
- Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms or black beans instead of meat.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Iowa Party Bites, Cheesy Meat Bites, Crescent Roll Appetizers, Easy Party Snacks, Midwest Recipes