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Iowa Party Bites with Corn, Cheddar, and Bacon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 bites
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

Iowa Party Bites are delightful mini appetizers featuring a flavorful mix of sweet corn, cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, and bacon, all nestled in crispy mini phyllo shells. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for parties and gatherings, combining creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors with a satisfying crunch.


Ingredients

Filling 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

Assembly Ingredients

  • 24 mini phyllo shells or small cracker bases
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the party bites.
  2. Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the sweet corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped green onions, and cooked crumbled bacon if using.
  3. Add Creamy Ingredients and Spices: Stir in the sour cream, mayonnaise, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
  4. Fill Shells: Evenly spoon the mixture into the mini phyllo shells or cracker bases, filling each one generously.
  5. Bake Bites: Arrange the filled shells on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the shells turn golden brown.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bites from the oven, allow them to cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels—just ensure frozen corn is thawed and drained, and canned corn is well-drained.
  • Bacon is optional but adds a nice smoky flavor; omit to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
  • If phyllo shells are unavailable, small cracker bases or mini tart shells can be substituted.
  • Make sure not to overfill the shells to prevent spillage during baking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for best results.