Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bites come together quickly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of creamy cheese and crispy chips makes them a favorite at parties and gatherings.
- Versatile: Customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 10 oz bag Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips
- 1 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled A protein (such as grilled chicken or beef)
- 1/2 cup diced green onions (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in the crumbled halal-friendly protein and diced green onions into the cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Bites: Arrange the Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture into each chip, filling it completely.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 20-25 bites, depending on the size of the chips and amount of filling used.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for some heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the protein and add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
- Cheese Blend: Mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover Iowa Party Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 20-second intervals until warmed.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of chip?
Yes, you can use any sturdy tortilla chip, but Scoops work best for holding the filling.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and assemble the bites on the chips, then refrigerate them until ready to bake.
3. Can I freeze these?
It’s not recommended to freeze after baking, as the chips may become soggy upon reheating.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
5. How can I make these spicier?
Add diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before baking.
6. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, using low-fat cream cheese will reduce the calorie content, but the texture may be slightly different.
7. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be added to the cheese mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
8. Can I make these without the egg?
The egg helps bind the mixture together, but you can omit it if needed. The mixture may be slightly less cohesive without it.
9. Can I use a different type of chip?
Yes, you can use any sturdy tortilla chip, but Scoops work best for holding the filling.
Conclusion
Iowa Party Bites are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that combines creamy cheese, savory seasonings, and crispy chips. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a tasty snack, these bites are sure to be a hit with your guests. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite protein, cheeses, and toppings to make it your own!
Iowa Party Bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 20-25 bites (depending on chip size and filling
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Iowa Party Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy cheese, savory seasonings, and crispy tortilla chips for a delicious bite-sized treat. Perfect for any gathering, these cheesy morsels are easy to prepare and offer endless customization options to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a party favorite, Iowa Party Bites will steal the show!
Ingredients
- 1 10 oz bag Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips
- 1 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled halal-friendly protein (chicken, turkey, or beef)
- ½ cup diced green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Cheese Mixture – In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add Optional Ingredients – If using, fold in the crumbled halal-friendly protein and diced green onions into the cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Bites – Arrange the Tostitos Scoops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture into each chip, filling it completely.
- Bake – Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are golden brown.
- Serve – Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for some heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the protein and use diced bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
- Cheese Variations: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the bites ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
