19 Party Pleasers That’ll Earn You A Round Of Applause (And Seconds)

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19 Party Pleasers That’ll Earn You A Round Of Applause (And Seconds)

Hosting a party can be a challenge, but having the right dishes can make all the difference. These 19 party pleasers are guaranteed to make your event memorable. From appetizers to main courses, every dish is crafted to be a hit with your guests. They’re simple to prepare but look and taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Get ready to enjoy the praise and see your guests line up for seconds.

Hot nachos fresh from the oven topped with guacamole and sour cream.
Oven Baked Nachos. Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen.

Mozzarella Sticks

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese.
Mozzarella Sticks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You can never go wrong adding Mozzarella Sticks to the mix. Everyone finds the pull of gooey cheese irresistible and served with a robust dipping sauce, they’re a hit. They are easy for guests to grab and go as they mingle. This appetizer is a surefire way to receive cheers from both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Sticks

Stuffed Mushrooms Appetizer

Stuffed Mushrooms on a plate.
Stuffed Mushrooms Appetizer. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Stuffed Mushrooms Appetizer is a classic choice for a sophisticated yet down-to-earth touch. Each mushroom cap is stuffed with a savory mix that melts in your mouth. They’re warm and inviting, perfect for a chilly evening gathering. Adults especially appreciate this one, often pointing them out as a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms Appetizer

Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip

A picture of the best chip dip with potato chips on a tray.
Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

For a nostalgic flavor, Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip has got you covered. It’s a dependable hit, recreating the beloved store-bought classic with a homemade touch. You can serve it with chips, veggies, or even pretzels. It’s versatile and always leaves the bowl clean, which says everything about its popularity.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip

Beef Quesadillas

Stack of beef quesadillas on a plate.
Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bring a little flair to the table with Beef Quesadillas. These are packed with flavor, easy to hold, and perfect for dipping into sour cream or salsa. Quesadillas are especially popular among guests who enjoy hearty appetizers. With each bite comes a mouthful of joy and a rush to grab another piece.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites

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

If you’re on the lookout for something that packs a punch with a creative twist, these bites are a must-try. Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites blend smooth guacamole with crispy bacon, all nestled atop a sweet potato slice. They’re a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering, and the combination of textures will have everyone reaching for more. Their uniqueness lies in combining hearty, comforting ingredients in one small, powerful package.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites

Samosas

Low angle shot of a samosa cut in half so that you can see the potato filling inside.
Samosas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Who doesn’t love a good stuffed pocket? Samosas bring a crunch that is hard to resist, filled with a perfectly seasoned filling. They’re a snack that spans cultures and is always a hit at parties, ensuring your guests are lined up for seconds. Enjoy the blend of spices that elevate these from simple to spectacular.
Get the Recipe: Samosas

Ricotta Crostini with Peaches and Prosciutto

A bite sized piece of crisp bread piled high with prosciutto and peach slices and ricotta cheese.
Ricotta Crostini with Peaches and Prosciutto. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

If you’re looking for something that marries sweet and savory brilliantly, try incorporating Ricotta Crostini with Peaches and Prosciutto into your party lineup. Guests often seek something different, and this dish delivers exactly that with a surprising blend of flavors. It not only pleases the eye but also provides a rich texture contrast. You’ll find that this dish quickly disappears from the serving table as people come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Ricotta Crostini with Peaches and Prosciutto

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.

Imagine a dip that becomes the star of the show at your next party. Taco Dip with Cream Cheese is irresistibly creamy and flavorful, making it perfect for dipping during intense game nights or casual hangouts. It’s easy to prepare, serve, and enjoy. Every scoop offers a rich, tangy taste, ensuring it’s always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

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

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers are all about that smoky flavor mixed with a hint of spice. They have a filling that melts in your mouth and a crispy exterior that provides the perfect crunch. Ideal for those who enjoy a bit of heat, these poppers will be snatched up before you know it. They’re just right for adding a spicy twist to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Garden Fresh Salsa

A closeup side shot of garden fresh salsa in a white bowl.
Garden Fresh Salsa. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

For a fresh, tangy addition to any party table, you can’t go wrong with this option. Garden Fresh Salsa is vibrant and packed with freshly chopped ingredients. It’s the ideal companion for your favorite chips and makes an excellent topping for grilled foods. Light yet flavorful, this salsa brings a burst of freshness to any plate, enhancing the meal with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Garden Fresh Salsa

Oven Baked Nachos

Hot nachos fresh from the oven topped with guacamole and sour cream.
Oven Baked Nachos. Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen.

Oven Baked Nachos are a must-have for any social gathering. This dish lets you customize toppings to suit any taste, making it versatile and universally loved. They’re crispy, hearty, and can handle a pile of your favorite additions without getting soggy. Perfect for a casual movie night or as an accompaniment to a festive occasion.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Nachos

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders on a blue plate with white sauce and parsley.
Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

For lovers of all things spicy and convenient, these chicken tenders are a game changer. Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders require minimal prep and cook time. They offer a juicy interior with a spicy exterior that kicks up the flavor notch at any party. Ideal for dipping into your favorite sauces, they ensure your gathering is fuss-free and fun.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Best Maryland Crab Dip

Crab dip in a dish on white towel with green onions and toasts.
Best Maryland Crab Dip. Photo credit: Food Fun & Faraway Places.

Best Maryland Crab Dip is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a sophisticated yet straightforward choice for your event. It pairs beautifully with bread or crackers, bringing a touch of the seaside to your menu. It’s particularly popular among seafood enthusiasts and is sure to be a sophisticated addition to your party fare. Every bite is a reminder of why simple ingredients often make the best dishes.
Get the Recipe: Best Maryland Crab Dip

Fattoush Salad

Overhead image of a Fattoush Salad in a white bowl.
Fattoush Salad. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Want a refreshing side that’s both light and flavorful? Fattoush Salad is a vibrant mix of greens and other vegetables, dressed lightly to enhance rather than mask their flavors. It’s a refreshing change from heavily dressed salads and brings a crisp texture to your meal. This dish not only adds color to your buffet but also offers a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fattoush Salad

Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart

A plate Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart.
Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Picture a dish that’s both elegant and irresistibly flavorful. Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart combines rich, sweet onions with creamy brie, all encased in a flaky crust. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a gourmet touch to their appetizers, adding a luxurious element to any gathering. This tart is sure to attract attention with its exquisite combination of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart

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.

Crispy Baked Salmon Bites are a classy addition to any party menu. These little bites are golden and crispy on the outside, with a tender, flavorful salmon inside. They make an excellent finger food, easy to munch on while mingling. Serve them up at your next gathering, and watch them disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Baked Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

A person dipping fried shrimp into a bowl of dip.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

For a seafood dish that brings a crunch, Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is the way to go. This dish is not only quick to make but also features a sweet and spicy sauce that clings to the crispy shrimp. It’s an excellent choice for those who like their appetizers with a bit of zing. Plus, cooking it in an air fryer means less oil and more crispness.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Mini Swiss Cheese Quiches

Mini Swiss cheese quiches on a white platter.
Mini Swiss Cheese Quiches. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Mini Swiss Cheese Quiches are the epitome of bite-sized perfection. These small but mighty quiches are packed with flavor, making them a fantastic choice for breakfast, brunch, or a light party snack. They’re easy to pick up and even easier to enjoy, with a deliciously cheesy filling that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether served hot or at room temperature, they’re sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Mini Swiss Cheese Quiches

Air Fryer Panko Shrimp

Air Fryer Panko Shrimp with cilantro lime dressing and parsley on a white plate.
Air Fryer Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Craving something crispy? Air Fryer Panko Shrimp might just be your next party favorite. Coated in breadcrumbs and cooked to perfection, these shrimp are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re perfect for dipping and sharing, making your party spread both sophisticated and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Panko Shrimp

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