Description
Midwestern gatherings spark joy with these irresistible Iowa Party Bites, combining creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning. Guests will devour these addictive appetizers that showcase classic comfort flavors with a serious crowd-pleasing crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
- 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Assembly Ingredients:
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tubes crescent roll dough
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) melted butter (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking surface by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and heating the oven to 375F (190C), ensuring an even cooking environment for the party bites.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions over medium heat, carefully draining any excess fat to maintain a crisp texture. Infuse the meat with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, creating a robust flavor profile.
- Transfer the seasoned beef mixture to a mixing bowl, gently folding in shredded cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until the ingredients are harmoniously blended.
- Carefully unroll the crescent roll dough, separating each triangle with precision. Distribute a measured portion of the beef mixture onto the wider end of each triangle, then meticulously roll the dough to encase the filling completely.
- Arrange the rolled bites on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining adequate spacing between each piece to allow for even browning.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, baking for 12-15 minutes until the crescent dough transforms into a golden, crispy exterior.
- Optional: Enhance the bites with a light brushing of melted butter, adding a luxurious sheen and extra depth of flavor.
- Remove from the oven and let cool briefly before serving alongside ketchup, ranch, or a preferred dipping sauce to complement the savory filling.
Notes
- Customize the spice level by adjusting smoked paprika and adding a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter protein alternative that keeps the recipe versatile.
- Ensure even cooking by using a uniform size when rolling the crescent bites, preventing undercooked or overcooked sections.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time and store filling in the refrigerator to streamline party preparation and reduce last-minute stress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg