31 Party Foods That Are Hands Down Our Favorites

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31 Party Foods That Are Hands Down Our Favorites

When it comes to party foods, we’ve all got our go-to favorites that never disappoint; the ones that have guests reaching for seconds (and thirds). We’ve lined up 31 of these no-fail favorites that stand out in the spread like a friend with an umbrella on a rainy day — reliable, comforting, and always welcome.

A white baking dish with chili cheese dip and tortilla chips.
Chili Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

A plate of bacon wrapped mini peppers.
Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers are an easy appetizer you can make in less than an hour. They’re stuffed with a mix of cream cheese, cheddar, and salt-free Everything Bagel seasoning for a pop of flavor. Start by partially cooking the bacon, then wrap it around the cream cheese-filled peppers and bake until the bacon is crispy. Serve these bites with a homemade Everything Bagel dip that complements the stuffed peppers perfectly. If you have extra cream cheese filling, just stir it into the dip for an added bonus. These peppers are a hit when served fresh and make for a memorable addition to any appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

A cracker being dipped into a dish of jalapeño cranberry dip.
Jalapeño Cranberry Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Looking for something that’s a breeze to whip up and perfect for dipping? This Jalapeño Cranberry Dip is it. It’s a mix of spicy and sweet that’ll have people talking long after the party’s over. Creamy, with a kick, and super easy to make, it’s a great pick for your party food lineup. Just grab some crackers for dipping, and you’re all set.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

A plate of parmesan crusted potatoes with a sauce on top.
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are an appetizer that you can whip up in under an hour with simple ingredients. These potatoes come out of the oven with a golden, cheesy crust that’s sure to impress. To make them, just mix grated Parmesan with panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Slice up some russet potatoes, give them a quick score, and toss them with oil. Press the Parmesan mixture onto the slices, bake until they’re crispy, and you’ve got a great appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Potatoes

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are the kind of appetizer that makes you look like a pro in the kitchen. They’re made with mushrooms, a splash of vinegar, and some oil to start. Then, you brown up some Italian sausage and mix it with cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper for the stuffing. Stuff the mix into the mushroom caps, bake until they’re tender and the tops are golden, and you’ve got a great appetizer ready to go. Plus, you can prep these ahead of time to make hosting a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Whipped Feta with Honey Dip

Plate of creamy dip topped with olive oil, herbs, and crackers.
Whipped Feta with Honey Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 10 minutes, you can have this Whipped Feta with Honey Dip ready to go. It’s incredibly easy and makes for a great spread that your guests will keep coming back to. Creamy feta and sweet honey come together for a dip that’s perfect for a party. Serve with crackers and pita bread.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta with Honey Dip

Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

Guacamole and shrimp appetizers.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer is a quick and straightforward dish that’s ready in about 25 minutes. You’ll start by marinating the shrimp in a mix of avocado oil, lime juice, garlic, cajun seasoning, and a bit of powdered sugar to round out the flavors. While the shrimp chills in the fridge, you mash up some avocados with red onion, lime juice, jalapeño, cilantro, and a pinch of salt to make a simple guacamole. Cook the shrimp until they’re pink, let them cool a bit, then assemble the bites with guacamole on cucumber slices, topped with a shrimp. Add a sprinkle of cilantro, salt, and pepper, and you’ve got a fresh, easy appetizer that’s great for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats with Cream Cheese

Spicy tuna cucumber boats on a plate.
Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats with Cream Cheese are your go-to when you need a quick appetizer that’s got a bit of a kick. In just 10 minutes, you’ve got cucumbers filled with a mix of cream cheese and tuna, all topped with a sprinkle of seasoning, a dash of coconut aminos, and a drizzle of hot sauce. They’re crunchy, they’re creamy, and they’re just right for an appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats with Cream Cheese

Chili Cheese Dip

Chili cheese dip in a baking dish with tortilla chips.
Chili Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This chili cheese dip is always a favorite at parties. It’s made with ingredients like cream cheese, heavy cream, a blend of spices, and loads of cheddar cheese, along with your favorite chili and salsa. Bake this combo until it’s hot and bubbly, and you’ve got yourself a great dip that’s a perfect match for tortilla chips or fresh veggies. Garnish with your favorite toppings like cilantro, green onions, jalapeños, and hot sauce.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cheese Dip

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on a plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts are the kind of appetizer that disappears as fast as you can make them. They take just an hour to put together and combine the perfect crunch of water chestnuts with bacon and a sweet and savory sauce brushed on top. These are a perfect pick for your next party, whether you’re gathering for the holidays, a family event, or just to watch the game.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Three loaded zucchini boats on a plate.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Loaded Zucchini Boats are a fantastic twist on the classic loaded potato skins. They’re a hit for any social event, from parties to game days. Packed with flavor, these boats are ready to serve in under an hour. They’re a great handheld option that will have everyone reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Jicama fries on a plate with parsley.
Golden Baked Jicama Fries. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Golden Baked Jicama Fries are a total game-changer for anyone who loves fries without the carbs. They’re easy to whip up — just boil, season, and bake until they hit that perfect shade of gold. These fries are a hit at any party, and they stand out for being just as great as their potato cousins, but with a lighter twist. With a sprinkle of parsley on top, they’re ready to be the new favorite at your next get-together. Plus, they keep well, so you can make them ahead of time and serve them up when the guests arrive.
Get the Recipe: Golden Baked Jicama Fries

Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

A dish of jalapeño spinach artichoke dip with a spoon.
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

For a dip that brings a little heat and a lot of flavor, Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip is the way to go. It’s a combination of spicy jalapeños, fresh spinach, and creamy artichokes, all melted together into a memorable and flavorful dip. It’s always a hit. Easy and delicious when served with crackers, chips, and veggie slices.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are the answer when you need something that’s easy, filling, and handheld. You’ve got chicken salad with all the good stuff — canned chicken, bacon, and cheese — scooped into fresh cucumber halves. They’re quick to make and just right for a fun appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Baked tomatoes with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese garnished with parsley.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese are a perfect addition to your holiday table! Made with ingredients like Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and Italian seasoning, these baked tomatoes with cheese are juicy, soft, flavorful, and easy to prepare — in less than 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When it comes to party foods that are hands down our favorites, this Taco Dip with Cream Cheese is right up there. It’s the kind of recipe that gets the party started — easy, quick, and packed with the flavors everyone craves. Just mix cream cheese with sour cream, add some taco seasoning, and spread it out in a dish. Then, throw on a layer of fresh veggies and shredded cheese, and you’re set. Whether you serve it right away or let it chill for a while, this dip is always ready to make an entrance.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Mini spicy canned salmon patties in a serving bowl.
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties are just the thing when you’re after an appetizer that’s got a bit of a kick. You can have these ready in 30 minutes, and they’re made with pantry staples like canned salmon and a pop of heat from jalapeño and cayenne pepper. Pan-fried to golden perfection and finished with a drizzle of lemon dill aioli, they’re a great handheld treat that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

A hand holding a toothpick with a bacon egg and cheese breakfast slider.
Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders are the perfect choice when you’re looking to step up your brunch game. This recipe takes hard-boiled eggs, pairs them with crispy bacon and cheddar, and adds a layer of mashed avocado for good measure. They’re a cinch to make and ready to serve in just 30 minutes, making them a great pick for a great brunch spread.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

Broccoli Fritters

A stack of broccoli fritters on a plate.
Broccoli Fritters. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Fritters come together in just 35 minutes, combining fresh chopped broccoli florets with Parmesan cheese for a quick and easy dish. Pair them with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a great addition to your appetizer menu.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Fritters

Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice

Tajin cucumber boats on a plate next to a slice of lime.
Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice are the kind of appetizer you whip up when you want something light and full of zest to add to your party menu. They take just 5 minutes to make, and they’re packed with a refreshing punch that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re a great handheld option that’s all about keeping things fresh and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Tajin Cucumber Boats with Lime Juice

Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites

Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites are the answer when you’re looking for something that’s super simple to make but still a hit with the crowd. With only 5 ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you can serve up these bites that are a perfect mix of salty and savory. They’re a great choice for a handheld appetizer that’s easy to enjoy while you’re having fun.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites

Lemon Pepper Wings

Chicken wings in a bowl with lemon and parsley.
Lemon Pepper Wings. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Lemon Pepper Wings are the kind of dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. They’re marinated to let those zesty lemon pepper notes really sink in, and then they’re baked until they’re just the right amount of crispy. It’s all about getting that perfect juicy bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Wings

Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries with dill dip on a plate.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Halloumi Fries are what you reach for when you want an appetizer that’s fun and creative. They’re seasoned and baked until golden, and they’re ready to enjoy in just about 25 minutes. Quick to make and even quicker to disappear from the plate, these are a solid choice for any meal where you want to impress without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are your shortcut to a flavor-packed appetizer that’s convenient, filling, and always delicious. With chicken and bacon wrapped up in one and a homemade ranch seasoning, that’s a breeze to whip up, these poppers are oven-baked for simplicity. They’re ready in under an hour, making them a great pick for a laid-back dinner or as the star of your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Sausage balls on a plate with a side of dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese are the ultimate easy-to-make party appetizer. With just a few simple steps and 30 minutes in the oven, you’ve got a batch of these bad boys ready to go. They’re perfect for game day, holiday parties, or any time you need a great appetizer that’s as easy to eat as it is to make.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Gluten-Free Cheez-Its

A hand holding a Cheez-It above a baking sheet of more crackers.
Gluten-Free Cheez-Its. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Gluten-Free Cheez-Its are the appetizer to turn to when you’re craving that classic cheesy crunch without the gluten. Made with almond flour, these copycat crackers are baked up in about 20 minutes and are just the right mix of cheese and salt for an appetizer you can feel good about munching on.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Cheez-Its

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are all about bringing big flavor to the table, fast. In just 20 minutes, you can cook up these bite-sized pieces of chicken until they’re tender, all coated in a rich buttery garlic sauce. It’s a straightforward recipe that delivers on taste without keeping you in the kitchen all day.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

Everything bagel seasoning cucumber boat being held in a hand.
Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats are a quick fix for when you’re craving something crisp and flavorful. In just 5 minutes, you can slice up some fresh cucumbers, scoop out the seeds, and top them with a blend of cream cheese and mashed avocado. A sprinkle of Everything Bagel Seasoning adds the final touch to this light and crunchy appetizer that’s perfect for a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

Cucumber Tomato Bites

A hand holding a cucumber tomato bite.
Cucumber Tomato Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cucumber Tomato Bites are the way to go for an appetizer that’s delicious and easy to make. These little bites come together in less than 30 minutes and are a great low-carb vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. They’re perfect for when you need to put together a quick appetizer. And they store really well if you want to make them in advance.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Bacon and Chive Mini Pepper Poppers

A hand holding a mini pepper topped with bacon.
Bacon and Chive Mini Pepper Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon and Chive Mini Pepper Poppers are the kind of party food that disappears as soon as you bring them out. They’re quick to make and just right for anyone looking for a quick bite. You’ll start by crisping up some bacon, then mix it with cream cheese, cheddar, chives, and a blend of spices. Stuff that creamy filling into halved mini sweet peppers, top with a bit more cheese, and bake until they’re just golden and bubbly.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Chive Mini Pepper Poppers

Chive And Onion Cream Cheese Cucumber Boats

Cucumber boats topped with avocado, bacon, and sprinkled with seasoning.
Chive And Onion Cream Cheese Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chive And Onion Cream Cheese Cucumber Boats are a fresh and easy appetizer you can put together in a snap — just 10 minutes, and you’re good to go. They’re stuffed with a mix of cream cheese, avocado, mustard, and bacon bits, all seasoned with Everything Bagel seasoning. These cucumber boats are a great treat for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Chive And Onion Cream Cheese Cucumber Boats

Zucchini Bites

A zucchini bite being dipped into a dipping sauce.
Zucchini Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When you’re looking for party food that’s quick and easy to make and hits the spot, these Zucchini Bites have got you covered. These little guys are made with shredded zucchini, a handful of Parmesan and cheddar, and just the right touch of Italian seasoning. Pop them in the oven, and in 30 minutes, you’ve got a great party appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bites

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