Iowa Party Bites (Cheesy Ranch Beef Bundles)
These Iowa Party Bites are savory, crowd-pleasing appetizers featuring seasoned ground beef, a creamy ranch and cheese filling, and optional spicy add-ins — all wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough and baked until perfectly golden.
🧂 Ingredients
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion (finely diced) | 1 small |
| Ranch seasoning mix | 1 packet (about 1 oz) |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 8 ounces |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
For the Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crescent roll dough | 1 (16-ounce) can |
| Butter (melted, optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Optional Add-Ins:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked and crumbled bacon | ½ cup |
| Jalapeño (finely diced) | 1 |
| Shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese | ½ cup |
👩🍳 How to Make Iowa Party Bites
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
Drain any excess fat, then stir in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar.
If desired, stir in any optional add-ins like bacon, jalapeño, or additional cheese until well blended.
Step 4: Assemble the Party Bites
Open the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles (or squares if using dough sheets).
Place about 1 tablespoon of the beef mixture in the center of each piece.
Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal tightly. Shape into small, sealed bundles.
Step 5: Bake
Arrange the bundles on the prepared baking sheet.
(Optional) Brush the tops with melted butter for extra color and flavor.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
(Optional) Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
