Not Your Grandma’s Menu: 13 Modern Holiday Appetizers

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Not Your Grandma’s Menu: 13 Modern Holiday Appetizers

Are you ready to shake up your holiday appetizer game? Let’s face it, we all love grandma’s recipes, but sometimes it’s fun to try something new. This season, we’ve put together 13 unique appetizers that are sure to add some pizzazz to your festive gatherings. We’re talking about bites like blue cheese steak crostini and creamy spinach artichoke dip that are not only delicious but also easy to whip up. These aren’t your typical cheese and cracker platters; they’re creative, flavorful, and perfect for wowing your guests. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday party or just looking for something different to enjoy with family, these recipes have got you covered.

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Blue Cheese Steak Crostini. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls

Cranberry sausage cheddar balls with cranberry dipping sauce.
Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These cranberry cheddar sausage bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or game days. Paired with cranberry sauce for dipping, they’re a tasty and easy-to-eat treat that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls

Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip

Roasted garlic white bean dip in a metal dish with pita chips.
Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A healthy and creamy dip, this roasted garlic white bean dip includes cottage cheese for an added protein boost and super creamy texture. It’s a unique and healthy option for any holiday party.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Garlic White Bean Dip

Whipped Goat Cheese Dip

Whipped goat cheese dip topped with olive oil in a bowl with cherry tomatoes and a cheese spreader.
Whipped Goat Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Infused with roasted garlic and fresh rosemary, this whipped goat cheese dip is a creamy, tart, and savory delight. Easy to make, it’s perfect with vegetables, fruit, crackers, or spread on crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Goat Cheese Dip

Cheesy Edamame Crostini

Crostini with cheesy edamame spread.
Cheesy Edamame Crostini. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A fresh take on appetizers, this cheesy, lemony edamame crostini is perfect for parties, offering a unique and delicious twist that your guests will love.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Edamame Crostini

Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip

A bowl of butternut squash goat cheese dip with cherries.
Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Made with goat cheese and cream cheese, this butternut squash dip has a creamy texture and is topped with a tart cherry compote. Served with pita chips, it’s an irresistible holiday appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip

Pickled Cranberries

Two jars of pickled cranberries on a kitchen towel.
Pickled Cranberries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Quick pickled cranberries offer a sweet and tart flavor, perfect for adding to drinks, topping cooked meats, or featuring on a charcuterie board. They’re a versatile and festive addition to any holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Cranberries

Goat Cheese Tomato Sausage Tart

Goat cheese tomato sausage tart on a cutting board.
Goat Cheese Tomato Sausage Tart. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This indulgent tart combines goat cheese, tomato, and sausage for a rich and flavorful appetizer. Perfectly paired with a glass of wine, it’s ideal for a holiday gathering or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Tomato Sausage Tart

Blue Cheese Steak Crostini

Blue cheese steak crostini on a metal platter drizzled with balsamic reduction.
Blue Cheese Steak Crostini. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These crostini offer a delightful combination of garlicky toasted bread, salty blue cheese, rare steak, and a balsamic reduction, creating a perfect little appetizer bite that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Steak Crostini

Pumpkin Goat Cheese Dip

Pumpkin goat cheese dip topped with caramelized onions, sunflower seeds and pepitas in a small skillet.
Pumpkin Goat Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This pumpkin goat cheese dip with caramelized onions is a flavorful addition to any holiday spread. It can be served warm or cold and pairs well with crackers, sliced fruits, or vegetables, offering a unique seasonal flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Goat Cheese Dip

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Spinach artichoke dip in a white baking dish.
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This classic dip can be served warm or at room temperature. Paired with your favorite crackers, chips, or veggies, it’s a familiar yet always welcome addition to any holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

A plate of hummus topped with butternut squash, cranberries and rosemary.
Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This butternut squash hummus is a festive and fun holiday appetizer, adorned with cranberries, pomegranates, and rosemary. It’s a colorful and flavorful twist on classic hummus.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

Pomegranate Salsa

A bowl of pomegranate salsa with lime and tortilla chips.
Pomegranate Salsa. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bright and festive, this pomegranate salsa is a visually stunning holiday appetizer. It’s great with chips but can also be used to top meats or pair with tacos for a fresh twist on winter flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Salsa

Roasted Red Pepper Dip

A bowl of roasted red pepper dip with crackers on a marble table.
Roasted Red Pepper Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A creamy and smoky appetizer, this roasted red pepper dip features fresh basil, lemon, garlic, white beans, and feta. It’s a smooth and indulgent choice that pairs well with chips or crackers.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Red Pepper Dip

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