Looking for a quick, tasty, and nutritious snack for your next gathering? These Iowa Party Bites are packed with crispy tortilla chips, creamy cheese, and a flavorful veggie filling, making them the perfect appetizer for game nights, parties, or snack cravings!
Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier alternative to traditional party snacks.
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy & Quick – Ready in just 15 minutes!
✔ Balanced & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit at any party or gathering.
✔ No Deep Frying! – Baked to perfection, keeping them light and crispy.
📌 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
🌽 For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, cut into blocks
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 (15 oz) can sweet corn, drained
- 1 (4 oz) can green chilies (medium or mild)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of salt
🧀 For the Chips:
- 1 (10 oz) bag of Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Add chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for extra freshness.
✔ Swap Parmesan for cheddar if you prefer a bolder cheese flavor.
✔ Add chopped jalapeños for extra heat!
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Baking Sheet
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2️⃣ Lightly grease two baking sheets with olive oil or line with parchment paper.
💡 Why Bake Instead of Fry? Baking preserves nutrients while avoiding excess fats!
🌽 Step 2: Arrange the Tortilla Chips
1️⃣ Lay Tostitos Scoops tortilla chips on the baking sheet, cup-side up.
2️⃣ Keep them close together to prevent spills.
💡 Why Tostitos Scoops? Their cup shape holds the filling perfectly for a mess-free bite!
🧀 Step 3: Make the Filling
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Shredded mozzarella
- Egg
- Drained sweet corn
- Green chilies
- Garlic powder, black pepper, and salt
2️⃣ Mix well until smooth and fully incorporated.
💡 Want a richer flavor? Let the filling rest for 10 minutes to absorb the spices!
🥄 Step 4: Fill the Chips
1️⃣ Using a spoon, fill each tortilla scoop with a small amount of the cheese mixture.
2️⃣ Make sure each chip is evenly loaded for a balanced bite.
💡 Don’t overfill! The mixture expands as it bakes, so a little goes a long way.
🧀 Step 5: Top with Parmesan & Bake
1️⃣ Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
2️⃣ Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and bubbling.
💡 For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end!
🍽 Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣ Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
2️⃣ Serve warm and enjoy the perfect blend of crunchy chips, creamy cheese, and zesty chilies.
💡 Serving Tip: Pair with salsa, guacamole, or a light yogurt dip for extra flavor!
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
- Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6-8
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Spicier – Add red pepper flakes or extra green chilies.
✔ Lower Fat Option – Use reduced-fat cream cheese & mozzarella.
✔ Make It Vegan – Swap cheese for dairy-free alternatives & use a flax egg.
✔ Extra Crunch? Sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips before baking.
❓ FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them in advance and bake just before serving for fresh, crispy bites.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Can I freeze these?
Not recommended—the chips may become soggy when thawed. Best enjoyed fresh!