17 Must-Try Appetizer Recipes That Guarantee No Leftovers!

Photo of author

| Published:

17 Must-Try Appetizer Recipes That Guarantee No Leftovers!

Looking for appetizers that will be the talk of your next gathering? Check out these 17 must-try recipes. These appetizers are guaranteed to disappear quickly, leaving no leftovers. Each recipe brings something special to the table, ensuring your guests will be impressed. Perfect for any occasion, these appetizers will fit right in and become the highlight of your event. With a variety of options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hosting a gathering? Sweet Potato Cubes come naturally sweet with a caramelized exterior that makes them simply irresistible. Even those who aren’t sweet potato fans find themselves drawn to their enticing aroma and perfectly crispy texture. Perfect for any occasion, these cubes often disappear from the serving tray before anything else. They blend well with dips and yet, shine brightly on their own.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Arepas con Queso

Close up shot of an arepa con queso split open to show the cheesy filling.
Arepas con Queso. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Arepas con Queso offer a heartwarming twist on a classic appetizer, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event. With their crisp outside and soft cheesy inside, they invite everyone for a taste. Often served at festive gatherings, these are a sure hit, especially when warm and freshly made. Their simplicity marries well with a variety of toppings, yet they’re superb alone.
Get the Recipe: Arepas con Queso

Bloody Mary Shrimp

plate of bloody mary shrimp on peach tiles with a baguette.
Bloody Mary Shrimp. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Fancy a twist on seafood? Bloody Mary Shrimp is your go-to. The combination is a refreshing change from traditional shrimp cocktails and it brings a new level of excitement to your offering. Guests are typically intrigued by the novelty and appreciate the unique taste. Perfect for cocktail nights and lively conversations, they’re usually the first to run out.
Get the Recipe: Bloody Mary Shrimp

Rainbow Chia Pudding

Rainbow Chia Pudding with dark background in a glass.
Rainbow Chia Pudding. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Rainbow Chia Pudding can be your statement piece for brunch or a light appetizer. It garners attention with its vibrant layers and offers health benefits, making it a conscious choice for many. Each layer promises a distinct taste and texture, making every spoonful exciting. Ideal for family gatherings or health-conscious events, this pudding quickly becomes the center of discussion.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Chia Pudding

Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites

Sweet potato bites topped with guacamole and bacon.
Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

When you need a crowd-pleaser, reach for Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites. They marry the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smokiness of bacon, all topped off with a creamy guacamole. It’s a fusion that promises to steal the show at any gathering. Every mouthful is a testament to how well different textures and flavors can come together. No one can resist the allure of these bites, making them a surefire way to ensure you won’t have leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites

Roasted Curried Beet Soup

two glass bowls filled with healthy beet soup and topped with chickpeas. Two spoons beside the first bowl and a yellow napkin.
Roasted Curried Beet Soup. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Warm, inviting, and packed with a gentle spice kick, this soup will become a fast favorite during cooler evenings. Its vibrant color makes it not just a feast for the palate but also a visual treat. Thanks to its blend of spices, each spoonful is a warm embrace, perfect for nights when you crave comfort in a bowl. Roasted Curried Beet Soup is surprisingly light yet hearty enough to leave everyone feeling satisfied. You’ll find guests asking for the recipe more often than not.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Curried Beet Soup

Crispy Baked Salmon Bites

A white plate with salmon bites next to small bowl of creamy honey mustard yogurt dipping sauce.
Crispy Baked Salmon Bites. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

For those who love a good seafood option, Crispy Baked Salmon Bites will not disappoint. Baked to perfection, these salmon bites offer a mouthwatering crust outside with tender fish inside. They are a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or texture. Perfect for any gathering, they’re often the first to vanish from the table. Even those unsure about fish will find themselves converted after trying these.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Salmon Bites

Texas Glazed Pecans

An overhead image of a small dish of texas glazed pecans.
Texas Glazed Pecans. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Sweet, slightly salty, and utterly irresistible, these pecans are a testament to simple ingredients creating extraordinary results. Texas Glazed Pecans have a knack for vanishing quickly at any party or gathering, often sparking conversation and recipe requests. Perfect for nibbling, they also make a thoughtful homemade gift. Whether you’re a nut aficionado or just looking for a snack that’s a bit out of the ordinary, these pecans are sure to hit the spot. Just be prepared to make more sooner than you think.
Get the Recipe: Texas Glazed Pecans

Mexican Street Corn

A bowl of Mexican Street Corn with a spoon in it ready to serve.
Mexican Street Corn. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Bursting with flavors and the perfect char, Mexican Street Corn is a testament to street food making it big at home. Every bite is a creamy, tangy, and cheesy experience that makes it hard to stop at just one. It’s casual enough for a backyard BBQ but unique enough to upgrade any meal. Often, it’s the dish that guests circle back to for “just one more taste.” Expect to be asked when you’ll be making it again, often before the meal even ends.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Lumpia are a game-changer for anyone looking to whip up something quick and delicious. They’re crispy on the outside, packed with flavor on the inside, and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for dipping, they often become the centerpiece of any snack table. Given their popularity, it’s a good idea to prepare a sizable batch. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these disappear.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs

Blue plate with pulled pork deviled eggs, all topped with a pickle.
Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Taking deviled eggs to the next level, this version combines the creaminess of the classic appetizer with the hearty, savory goodness of pulled pork. Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs are a bold take on a traditional favorite that can spark lively conversations around the snack table. Often, they’re the dish that effortlessly bridges the gap between those who love their classics and those seeking something new. Expect them to disappear as soon as they’re served, with frequent requests for more.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Deviled Eggs

Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps

Overhead view of cream cheese pickle wraps on white plate.
Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Simple yet profoundly satisfying, Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps offer a surprising burst of flavor that tends to win over even the most skeptical guests. They’re a perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and crunchy, making them a go-to for any occasion. It’s not uncommon for these to become a topic of conversation, with many surprised by how much they enjoy the combination. Easy to make and even easier to love, they often leave plates clean and guests happy.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Pickle Wraps

Chicken Tenders

Image shows Hand dipping a corn flake crusted chicken tender into a bowl of sauce on a wooden table.
Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A beloved classic, these Chicken Tenders are anything but ordinary. Juicy on the inside with a perfectly golden crust, they appeal to guests of all ages. They’re the ultimate comfort food, ideal for dipping and sharing. Don’t be surprised if they become a recurring request for game days, movie nights, or any casual gathering. They’re proof that when something is done right, it never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders

Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

A white plate with vegan stuffed portobello mushrooms garnished with cherry tomatoes and parsley.
Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

For a plant-based option that’s as filling as it is flavorful, these Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are the way to go. They’re a beautiful blend of textures and tastes, proving that vegan food can be just as hearty as any meat-based dish. Ideal for serving as a noteworthy addition to any meal, they’re often the talk of the table. Even non-vegans find themselves drawn to the rich, satisfying flavors, making them a hit with a broad audience.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Rosemary Asiago Cheese Popcorn

Popcorn with rosemary and Asiago cheese in a blue bowl.
Rosemary Asiago Cheese Popcorn. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Upgrading the classic popcorn with rosemary and Asiago cheese turns it into a gourmet treat. It’s a snack that’s as irresistible at a casual movie night as it is as an appetizer at a dinner party. The combination of herbaceous and cheesy notes makes it hard to resist. Often, Rosemary Asiago Cheese Popcorn is the dish that breaks the ice, with guests bonding over their shared love for this unique take. Be prepared for it to go quickly, with many requests for refills.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Asiago Cheese Popcorn

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky, spicy, and all-around irresistible, Smoked Jalapeno Poppers have a way of disappearing almost as soon as they hit the table. They’re a bold choice for those looking to add a little heat to their appetizer lineup. Surprisingly, even guests who are wary of spicy foods find themselves drawn to the complex flavors. They’re a definite crowd-pleaser, sparking lively debates about who can handle the heat. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a memorable kick.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Fried Marinated Tofu

A bowl of soup with a spoon in it.
Fried Marinated Tofu. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

For an appetizer that’s both crispy and packed with flavor, Fried Marinated Tofu is unmatched. It’s a fantastic option for both vegans and meat-eaters alike, offering a delicious alternative to traditional fried snacks. The marinade ensures that each piece is bursting with taste, making it a surprising favorite among guests. It’s not uncommon for skeptics to become fans, often asking for the recipe before the night is over. This dish proves that tofu can be anything but bland.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.