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Whether you’re grazing all day in anticipation of Thanksgiving dinner or just setting out snacks to tide the kids over, these 27 Best Thanksgiving Appetizers have something for everyone.
Meggan’s notes
Whether you’re grazing all day in anticipation of the big meal, or just setting out snacks to tide the kids over, I’ve got you covered with this list of 27 Best Thanksgiving Appetizers.
Some are as few as 2 or 3 ingredients, and others are gorgeous show-stoppers like the Thanksgiving charcuterie board (but it’s still so easy to assemble). Whether you want hot bites or room-temp options, there are plenty of choices in this list.
Towards the end, you’ll even find suggestions for light snacks to keep appetites at bay without overdoing it. From homemade French onion dip packed with caramelized onions to Midwestern veggie pizza, there’s something for everyone in this list of Thanksgiving appetizers.
Easy Thanksgiving Appetizers
1. Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board
Share a Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board for mid-day grazing before the main meal. Filled with a bounty of meat, cheese, and seasonal fruits, and holiday touches, this platter is as abundant as it is beautiful.
2. Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts are salty, sweet, and incredibly addictive (in the best way). Top with 2-ingredient barbecue sauce and broil for a crowd-pleasing party snack recipe in just 20 minutes.
3. Crockpot Meatballs with Grape Jelly
The easiest party appetizer on the planet is also the most delicious. Crockpot Meatballs with Grape Jelly Sauce is a lifesaver for hungry crowds and cocktail parties, so make a double batch!
4. Barbecue Smokies
Sharpen your toothpicks. Barbecue Little Smokies are the easiest, most festive appetizer you’ll ever make. Two ingredients, zero prep, and 100% addictive, exactly the way all good party food should be.
5. Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
Inspired by Supper Clubs in the Midwest, these Roasted Fingerling Potatoes bake up tender with browned edges. They feature a simple seasoning blend and a delicious sour cream and onion dipping sauce, too.
6. Baked Brie
Lusciously melty Baked Brie is destined to become the hit of your appetizer recipe spread. This 15-minute snack recipe is customizable, crowd-pleasing, and overflowing with richness.
7. Pigs in a Blanket
You need just 3 ingredients and 20 minutes to make one of the best party snack ideas, Pigs in a Blanket. This easy appetizer recipe is pure, blissful comfort food that will transport you back to childhood (and delight kids, too).
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip
Homemade Spinach Artichoke Dip is even better than the classic restaurant appetizer. It’s hot, bubbly, cheesy, and just begging for some crusty bread or tortilla chips.
9. Sausage Rolls
Sausage Rolls are one of the tastiest snacks to come out of the United Kingdom, and with good reason. With an herby, sausage filling wrapped in puff pastry and baked until golden brown and flaky, these crispy little rolls are always a hit, no matter where you serve them.
10. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
There is nothing more addictive than tender asparagus spears wrapped in salty, crispy prosciutto. It only takes 4 ingredients and 30 minutes for this simple and delicious appetizer!
Make Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizers
11. Veggie Pizza
Beloved by kids and adults alike, this easy Veggie Pizza makes eating vegetables fun. Spread an herby cream cheese mixture over a cooled crescent roll crust, then top with all your favorite raw veggies and shredded cheese. It tastes better if you make it a day ahead so the cream cheese has time to soften the crust (in the best possible way).
12. Candied Pecans
Candied Pecans are deliciously crunchy and decadent thanks to brown sugar, cinnamon, and a few other holiday spices. This recipe is lightning fast, kid-friendly, and a snap to make for last-minute gifts or bake sales.
13. Deviled Eggs
This easy Deviled Eggs recipe is my family’s most trusted and the only one you’ll ever need. Homemade Deviled Eggs are the perfect party snack or brunch menu idea.
14. Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Salty, sweet, and (fair warning!) addictive, this easy Bacon Wrapped Smokies recipe calls for just four ingredients. Beat the clock: After 5 minutes of prep time, the best game day snack is ready to head to the oven.
15. Turkey Roll Ups (Costco Copycat)
Learn how to make Turkey Roll Ups at home, just like the ones from Costco (with the cranberry cream cheese!). They are easy to make, cheaper, and tastier than the store-bought version, and you don’t have to fight the crowds to enjoy them.
16. Baked Brie in Puff Pastry
If you’re looking for a decadent, impressive appetizer, look no further than Baked Brie in Puff Pastry. Creamy brie pairs perfectly with pillowy store-bought puff pastry and bright apricot jam (or the jam of your choice).
Thanksgiving Dip Recipes
17. Knorr Spinach Dip
This Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe is the classic version you know and love! Cold and creamy, it’s so easy to make and tastes even better than you remember.
18. Buffalo Chicken Dip
This easy Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe is classic Midwestern fare, and it can be yours in minutes with just 5 ingredients. Serve with plenty of fresh celery sticks, crackers, and chips.
19. Beet Hummus
Creamy, vibrant Beet Hummus is quick and made right in your food processor or blender. It’s a stunning, flavorful addition to vegan charcuterie boards and seasonal spreads or a tasty snack any day of the week.
20. Cheesy Bacon Dip
Cheesy Bacon Dip has two kinds of melted cheese, a full pound of crispy bacon, and buttery cracker crumbs. A perfect skillet appetizer to whip up for game day or weekend parties.
21. Dill Dip
Easy Dill Dip is a sure-fire hit for all your parties from here on out. This super creamy classic uses only dried herbs and spices (a great excuse to raid your spice cabinet) and only tastes better when you make it a day in advance.
22. French Onion Dip
Skip the seasoning packet and try this easy homemade French Onion Dip. The caramelized onions are cooked low and slow to bring out their rich golden color and natural sweetness.
23. Hot Corn Dip
For a hot dip recipe that will please a crowd, try this easy, cheesy Hot Corn Dip. This make-ahead appetizer idea can feature frozen, canned, or fresh corn so you can share it any time of year.
Light Thanksgiving Appetizers
24. Olive Tapenade
For a 10-minute appetizer dip, sandwich spread, or pizza “sauce,” try this easy homemade Olive Tapenade. Customize this Mediterranean spread with any variety of briny olives.
25. Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups
For a make-ahead appetizer recipe that’s zesty, cheesy, and perfect for parties, try Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups. If you like creamy dips, then you’ll love this easy snack idea!
26. Cucumber Sandwiches
For an easy party appetizer, try Cucumber Sandwiches. They’re a staple at Midwestern potlucks and spring brunch menus, and you’re about to taste why!
27. Chex Mix
Make this homemade Chex Mix recipe in the microwave in 10 minutes or less! It’s adapted from the original Chex Party Mix recipe, but I use more butter, and I think it’s better that way.
