Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 irresistible party appetizer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a backyard barbecue, or just a casual gathering with friends, these crowd-pleasing snacks will be a hit.
From savory bites like Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers and Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms, to sweet treats like Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tartlets, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are all easy to make and require minimal effort, so you can focus on having fun with your guests rather than stressing over complicated dishes.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these delicious party appetizer recipes, including tips for serving, storing, and reheating. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make some unforgettable memories with your friends and family!
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Add some heat to your snack time with these crispy, cheesy jalapeño poppers wrapped in smoky bacon. Perfect for game day or a quick appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeños
– 1 block of cream cheese (softened)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a slice of cooked bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
• 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Thread a cherry tomato half, followed by a mozzarella round, and finally a basil leaf onto each toothpick.
2. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of each skewer.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the tanginess of spinach and artichokes.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-artichoke mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Dip with Tortilla Chips
A spicy and savory dip that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken wings with creamy ranch dressing, perfect for snacking on with tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth.
3. Add shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chicken breast, buffalo wing sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Garlic Bread Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the rich flavors of parmesan cheese and garlic with crispy, buttery bread for a delightful snack or appetizer. Perfect for parties or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (about 12-15 inches long), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Add the bread cubes to the garlic-butter mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the bread cubes and toss again until they’re well-coated.
5. Place the bread cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Nacho Cheese Ball
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy, and ridiculously delicious Loaded Nacho Cheese Ball.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
– 1/4 cup diced cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1 tablespoon sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, diced cooked bacon, and crushed tortilla chips. Mix until well combined.
3. Add sour cream and mix until smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a lightly floured surface and shape into a ball.
5. Place the cheese ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these sweet and spicy meatballs that combine the perfect balance of savory flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add the egg and mix until the meat mixture is sticky and holds together when formed into balls.
4. Form into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dipping Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of crispy coconut shrimp and refreshing mango dipping sauce. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Mango dipping sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together sugar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dip each shrimp into the sugar mixture, then coat in the coconut breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Mango Dipping Sauce:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. Serve with crispy coconut shrimp.
Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
Elevate your cheese board game with this easy-to-make baked brie recipe, infused with the sweetness of honey and crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
– 2 tbsp of honey
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp of fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the Brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and thyme leaves evenly over the honey.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly puffed.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of smoky paprika, adding a depth of flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth, then stir in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
4. Sprinkle tops with chopped chives or additional smoked paprika (if using).
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread
Elevate your snack game with this ridiculously easy and addictive cheesy pull-apart garlic bread recipe! With its gooey cheese, savory garlic, and soft bread, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of French bread (14.1 oz), cut into 12 equal pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Place each bread piece on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread a small amount of the garlic butter on each piece.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized crab cakes, perfectly balanced by a tangy and creamy lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Using your hands, shape mixture into small patties (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
4. Fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes for crab cakes, plus 5 minutes for aioli preparation. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Spears
Elevate your asparagus game with this elegant and flavorful side dish. Thin slices of prosciutto add a salty, savory element to the tender spears.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6-8 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place an asparagus spear on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each spear.
4. Wrap a slice of prosciutto around the middle of each asparagus spear, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the wrapped asparagus and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls
Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat!
These savory pastries are filled with juicy sausage and flaky puff pastry, making them perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut sausage into small pieces and spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place sausage rolls on prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese
Add a pop of color and flavor to your table with these bite-sized stuffed peppers filled with a rich cream cheese mixture. Perfect for parties or as an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 mini bell peppers (any color)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cream cheese mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip with Veggies
A creamy and tangy dip that’s perfect for snacking on veggies or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced into sticks
– 1 cucumber, sliced into sticks
– 1 bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped parsley and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
3. Serve the dip with carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper slices.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Pineapple
Elevate your backyard BBQ or dinner party with these mouthwatering teriyaki chicken skewers, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken, pineapple chunks, and any remaining marinade onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Crostini
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 log goat cheese (chèvre), softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with parsley.
4. Top each slice with a dollop of goat cheese, followed by a few sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
A refreshing appetizer or snack that combines the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the cooling crunch of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 4-6 thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked salmon, cream cheese, and chopped dill until well combined.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving plate or platter.
3. Spoon a small amount of the salmon mixture onto each cucumber slice.
4. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges optional.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (assembly only)
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tartlets
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion. The sweetness of the caramelized onions pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of Gruyère cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
4. Spoon a small amount of the caramelized onions onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle a small amount of Gruyère cheese over the onions.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle. Press the edges to seal.
7. Brush the tops with a little water and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to wow your guests with these 20 irresistible party appetizer recipes! From savory to sweet, this collection has something for everyone. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers and Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms offer a satisfying bite, while Buffalo Chicken Dip and Loaded Nacho Cheese Ball bring the heat. For a lighter option, try Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dipping Sauce or Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts. And don’t forget sweet treats like Sweet and Spicy Meatballs and Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread. These crowd-pleasing recipes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!