🌽🧀 Iowa Party Bites Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (or pork sausage, optional mix)
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1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade)
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1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for a little kick)
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1 package wonton wrappers (or mini phyllo cups)
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2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
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Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in corn, cream cheese, cheddar, ranch seasoning, and jalapeño (if using). Mix until creamy and combined.
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Lightly spray a mini muffin tin, then press a wonton wrapper into each cup.
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Fill each cup with 1–2 tablespoons of the beef mixture.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes, until wonton edges are golden and filling is bubbly.
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Remove, let cool slightly, and garnish with green onions before serving.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the beef-cheese filling up to 2 days ahead, store in the fridge, and fill wontons just before baking.
Q: What can I use instead of wonton wrappers?
A: Mini phyllo cups, biscuit dough, or even tortilla scoops make great substitutes.
Q: Can they be frozen?
A: Absolutely. Freeze after baking, then reheat at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until warm and crispy.
Q: How do I make them spicier?
A: Add extra jalapeños, hot sauce, or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Q: Are these truly “Iowa-style”?
A: Yes—because they combine beef, corn, cheese, and ranch (all Midwest/Iowa favorites) into a snack-sized bite.
