Appetizers are the first impression at any meal, and we’ve found some that really live up to the hype. These 20 starters are great for kicking off your dinner with a bang, proving they’re not just good, but actually worth talking about. From the first bite, you’ll see why these picks are favorites for many.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer
Prepare this Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer in 30 minutes for a delicious and memorable appetizer. Seasoned with Cajun spices and paired with crisp cucumber slices and guacamole, these bites are perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer
Jalapeño Cranberry Dip
This Jalapeño Cranberry Dip is perfect for beginners in the kitchen looking for an easy yet impressive option to bring to parties. It requires just 15 minutes of prep time. Simply blend the jalapeño and cranberry, mix with the creamy base, and present it in a serving dish. It stands out on any appetizer table with its vibrant color and burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Cranberry Dip
Whipped Feta with Honey Dip
The Whipped Feta with Honey Dip stands out for its simplicity and how quickly you can whip it up—only 10 minutes from start to finish. It’s a fantastic choice for any gathering because it pairs so well with either pita bread or buttery crackers. This dish is not just easy; it’s also a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and sweet touch of honey.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta with Honey Dip
Loaded Zucchini Boats
These zucchini boats give a creative spin to classic flavors, combining bacon, shredded cheese, and sour cream. They’re perfect for any casual get-together, easy to make in less than an hour. This appetizer allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests. Present them on a platter or serve them right from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
These sausage balls are a great pick for an easy appetizer, especially for game day or casual meet-ups. You just mix the ingredients, roll them into balls, and bake. They take only 30 minutes from start to finish. They’re a hit because they’re quick to prepare and come loaded with flavors that everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this taco dip, making it a fantastic choice for any get-together. Simply prepare the base, layer on the ingredients, sprinkle a good amount of cheese on top, and it’s ready to serve. Pair it with chips or veggies for an appetizer that’s both easy to make and a hit with guests.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese
Chili Cheese Dip
This Chili Cheese Dip comes together in 30 minutes, using simple ingredients and baked to perfection. Just mix, bake with cheese on top, add your favorite toppings, and it’s ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for any gathering, providing a simple yet delicious option for those new to cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cheese Dip
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts
These Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts come together in just 1 hour and feature crisp bacon, tender water chestnuts, and a flavorful sauce — all wrapped up for a perfect bite every time. This recipe is a great choice for holiday parties, family gatherings, and game-day events.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Halloumi Fries
Discover the joy of Halloumi Fries, made from a special cheese from Cyprus that doesn’t melt when cooked. You can have this appetizer ready in just 25 minutes. These fries are irresistible, whether enjoyed plain or dipped in your favorite sauce, making them a must-try for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are your go-to for a flavor-packed appetizer that’s quick and easy to make. They combine chicken, bacon, egg, cheese, and spices into bite-sized treats ready in about an hour. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, allowing you to prepare them in advance. They’re a great choice for impressing guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are the way to go for an appetizer that’s both impressive and full of flavor. You can prep them with basic ingredients and even get them ready ahead of time. This makes your hosting duties a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip
This Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip is a fantastic pick for anyone looking to offer a standout appetizer without much hassle. Ready in less than an hour, it blends parmesan cheese, sour cream, spinach, artichoke hearts, and jalapeños into a crowd-pleasing dish. Just mix and bake for an effortless yet impressive addition to your party menu.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip
Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers
Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers are the perfect mix of taste and texture, making them a standout appetizer. They’re quick to prepare and bake, ready in under an hour. With cream cheese-filled peppers wrapped in bacon, they’re bound to be a hit. Offering them with a side of dip elevates this dish, making it a favorite at any event.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Mini Peppers
Parmesan Crusted Potatoes
These Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are a stellar side dish, ready in under an hour. They’re simple to make with common kitchen staples. Crispy, packed with flavor, and hearty, these potatoes can accompany any main dish to complete a satisfying meal. They’re especially great for a cozy dinner, making them a practical and popular choice.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crusted Potatoes
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese
This appetizer features Roma tomatoes topped with fresh basil and Italian seasoning, creating a soft and well-seasoned dish. It’s quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. This dish is a go-to for those times when you need something quick yet impressive for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese
Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders
Transforming hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and avocado into a sandwich offers a new take on breakfast favorites. These sliders are quick to assemble and are ready in 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders
Zucchini Bites
With shredded zucchini, Parmesan and cheddar cheese, and Italian seasoning, these bites bring a flavorful veggie option to your appetizers. They’re easy to make and a great way to add vegetables to your offerings.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bites
Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats
In just five minutes, you can whip up these cucumber boats, topped with cream cheese, avocado, and Everything Bagel seasoning. They provide a crunchy and creamy experience, perfect for any gathering. This dish is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats
Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites
In just 30 minutes, you can prepare Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites, a perfect solution for spontaneous gatherings. Combining the salty-sour taste of pickles with bacon, these bites are a hit for any event. They’re a clever way to offer a memorable dish with minimal kitchen time.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites
Cucumber Tomato Bites
These Cucumber Tomato Bites are ready in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to for quick and refreshing appetizers. Combining cucumbers, tomatoes, and cream cheese filling, this dish is ideal for when you need something fast and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites