Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, Bisquick, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully combined.
Optional Moistening: If the mixture feels too dry, add up to 1/4 cup of milk to help it bind better.
Step 3: Shape the Bites
Form into Balls: Using a small scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Step 4: Bake
Bake: Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and cooked through. You can test one by cutting it in half to ensure it’s done in the center.
Cool Slightly: Allow the Iowa Party Bites to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations
Make It Spicy: If you love heat, use hot sausage or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Cheese Options: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños for an extra boost of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead: These bites can be made ahead and frozen. Just shape the bites, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.
Serve with Dips: These party bites pair perfectly with a variety of dips like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a tangy BBQ sauce.
