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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the party bites.
- 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.
- 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.
- Fill Shells: Evenly spoon the mixture into the mini phyllo shells or cracker bases, filling each one generously.
- 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.
- 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.