Dinner

Iowa Party Bites Recipe

Bylilan Sage December 29, 2025December 29, 2025

Introduction

Iowa Party Bites are a delightful, cheesy appetizer perfect for gatherings and game days. These bite-sized snacks combine creamy cheese with sweet corn and a hint of spice, all nestled in crispy tortilla scoops.

A close-up view of several small taco cup bites arranged on a white plate, each with a crispy golden tortilla shell forming the outer layer. Inside, there is a layer of melted yellow-orange cheddar cheese along with white cheese that appears gooey and slightly browned on top. Small green herb pieces sprinkle some cups, adding a touch of color. The taco cups are tightly packed together, showing their textured, crinkled edges and glossy melted cheese. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (10-ounce) bag Tostitos scoops tortilla chips
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
12 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
1 large egg
1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn, drained
1 (4-ounce) can green chiles, drained
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220°C). Lightly grease two large baking sheets with cooking spray or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Arrange the tortilla chips bowl-side-up close together on the baking sheets. Use only whole chips to prevent filling from spilling out. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Scrape the sides and bottom, then mix in the egg until fully combined.
Step 4: Add 8 ounces of shredded mozzarella, sweet corn, green chiles, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling into each chip’s bowl. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or substitute green chiles with chopped jalapeños.
Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a more complex flavor.
Prepare the filling a day ahead to save time, then assemble and bake just before serving.
Serve with salsa or sour cream on the side for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover party bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep the chips from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

A white plate holds twelve small taco cup bites arranged closely together, each cup made from a crispy, slightly browned tortilla shell that forms a flower-like shape with pointed edges. Inside each shell, there is a golden-yellow melted cheese layer mixed with white melted cheese, bubbling and slightly browned on top. Small green herb pieces are scattered on the cheese, adding contrast. One taco cup on the right side has a slice of bright green jalapeño pepper with visible seeds, placed on top. The plate is resting on a white marbled textured surface with a soft gray cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tortilla chips?

Yes, but choose scoop-shaped or sturdy chips that can hold the filling without breaking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble and bake the bites just before serving for the best texture.