These 29 Appetizer Recipes Are My Go-to When I Don’t Know What To Bring

ByMandy

These 29 appetizer recipes always save the day when nothing else comes to mind. Each one is quick to make and easy to carry. Flavors work well for parties, game nights, or any small gathering. Guests usually grab a bite and ask for the recipe. These appetizers turn any moment into a tasty one.

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Loaded Potato Skins

Close-up of loaded potato skins topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and sliced green onions on a white background.
Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Packed with hearty flavors, Loaded Potato Skins make for an easy crowd-pleaser. Crispy on the outside, with a rich and creamy filling. Perfect for sharing with friends or family during casual get-togethers. A great choice when you want something quick and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Ham and Swiss Sliders

Two ham and cheese sliders on seeded buns are placed on parchment paper. Bright green parsley is visible in the background.
Ham and Swiss Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bite-sized and full of bold flavor, Ham and Swiss Sliders are always a hit. These make-ahead treats are ideal for gatherings when you’re short on time but big on taste. The perfect combination works beautifully in a small, packable form. Perfect to serve when you need a reliable appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders

Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm, crispy, and bursting with bold flavors, Garlic Bread adds a cozy touch to any table. It’s a simple crowd favorite that feels homemade every single time. A popular choice that’s easy to whip up for any occasion. Great to bring along when you’re not sure what others will love.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Avocado Toast

Various avocado toasts with toppings including cherry tomatoes, fried eggs, black olives, and feta cheese on a parchment-lined surface.
Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy and crunchy come together in Avocado Toast, making it a go-to option. Easy to customize and always quick to prepare. Ideal for moments when you need something that’s light yet delicious. Works well as an appetizer everybody can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spicy, cheesy, and rolled into bite-sized goodness, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel is the perfect pick. These little snacks are easy to grab and impress guests instantly. You can count on them to bring a pop of flavor to the table. Ideal when you want something bold without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background.
Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing beats the hearty appeal of Meatball Sliders, especially for casual gatherings. Compact and packed with flavor, these mini sandwiches get the job done. Perfect for last-minute decisions or when you want something everyone will dig into. They fit in seamlessly with any appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Crostini Appetizers

Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, capers, cheese, walnuts, and herbs on a decorative silver tray.
Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crisp, bite-sized, and incredibly versatile, Crostini Appetizers are great for experimenting with toppings. Perfect for when you need to feed a crowd without stress. These little toasts work no matter the occasion or audience. Easy to make and guaranteed to be enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Loaded Tater Tots

Loaded Tater Tots close-up topped with crumbled bacon, drizzled with ranch dressing, and garnished with sliced green onions on a white plate.
Loaded Tater Tots. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchy and indulgent, Loaded Tater Tots never fail to steal the spotlight. These little bites pack big flavors into a small size. Perfect for sharing during informal get-togethers or whenever you need something approachable. Effortless to make and great for any group.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots

Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown Maryland crab cakes garnished with herbs on a white plate, complemented by a fresh parsley garnish.
Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bursting with fresh seafood flavors, Maryland Crab Cake is always a classy choice. Dependable and rich, these little cakes can be your go-to when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. A great option for gatherings where you need something bold yet simple. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful choice.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Queso Dip

Close-up of creamy cheese dip being poured over chopped tomato salsa with diced onions and cilantro.
Queso Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm and gooey, Queso Dip pairs perfectly with chips for a no-fuss appetizer. Easy to transport and always a favorite among any kind of gathering. This cheesy option is ideal when you’re unsure of what to bring for a crowd. Great to whip together quickly without compromising taste.
Get the Recipe: Queso Dip

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Compact and bursting with flavor, Ham and Cheese Sliders are perfect for your next gathering. These bite-sized treats offer an easy way to please any crowd without overthinking it. Just the right balance of taste in each bite makes them an instant hit. Ideal for situations when you want convenience and taste rolled into one.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate.
Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light, fresh, and easy to grab, Rice Paper Rolls are perfect for those who love something simple yet delicious. These rolls fit in seamlessly with bigger spreads or work well on their own. They don’t require much prep time, which makes them a reliable option. You’ll love how approachable and versatile they are.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich layers of texture and flavor make 7 Layer Dip a dependable favorite. It’s perfect for situations where you need something quick and big enough to serve a crowd. Each scoop offers a taste that goes wonderfully with chips or crackers. A reliable option for your go-to appetizer list.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized and hearty, Sweet Potato Cubes keep things simple and flavorful without extra fuss. They’re great for casual snacking or formal gatherings alike. These little bites pack a warm richness that’s easy to enjoy. Perfect when you need a quick appetizer that’s easy to share.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Golden and crisp, Crunchy Onion Rings add a texture to any appetizer table. These fried bites make for a reliable finger food that everyone has room for. Perfect to bring along when you want to keep things simple yet enjoyable. Easy to prepare and always a hit for casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with cranberry sauce on a platter.
Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These bite-sized favorites are always a crowd-pleaser for any get-together. Deviled Eggs are perfect when you’re looking for something quick and easy to share. Each bite is creamy and flavorful, making them hard to resist. They’re a simple classic that fits well with whatever else you’re serving.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Roast Beef Sliders

Close-up of a fork lifting a beef sandwich topped with sesame seeds on a soft bun, with more sandwiches in the background.
Roast Beef Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you need an easy snack with big flavor, these little sandwiches are the answer. Roast Beef Sliders bring together tender beef and a soft roll for a tasty combo. They’re easy to grab and enjoy for casual gatherings. You’ll love how versatile they are and how quickly they disappear.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli in a mixing bowl with a spoon in it, garlic cloves, and dill around it.
Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Looking for a dip or spread with just the right punch of garlic, Garlic Aioli is a creamy addition that pairs perfectly with almost any appetizer. It’s simple but adds just enough flavor to stand out. Don’t be surprised if you start putting it on everything!
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A quick pasta dish that manages to pack bold flavors without being too complicated. Italian Pasta with Salami combines tasty bites of salami with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s always a hit, and you can make it ahead of time. Everyone will be reaching for seconds once they try it!
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

French Onion Dip

Bowl of creamy dip topped with chopped chives and black pepper, next to pieces of toasted bread.
French Onion Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you need something versatile and easy to pair with chips or veggies, this dip is your go-to. French Onion Dip offers a rich and creamy flavor that’s always popular at gatherings. It’s one of those dishes that never needs much prep but is always appreciated. You’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together every time.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These stuffed peppers make for an irresistible mix of smoky and spicy. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers combine the perfect crunch with a rich and bold flavor. They’re always a hit, especially for folks who enjoy a kick of heat in their snacks. Everyone will be asking for the recipe once they try these.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Potato Skins

Potato skins with sour cream and sliced scallions.
Potato Skins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Perfect for when you need something simple but full of flavor. Potato Skins offer just the right mix of crispy and filling with every bite. They’re easy to make and always a favorite at snack tables. You’ll find them disappearing fast once they’re served.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These little sandwiches are packed with flavors inspired by Italy. Italian Sliders combine meats and cheeses into a perfect handheld snack. They’re a great choice when you can’t decide what to bring to a gathering. Everyone will love how delicious and easy they are to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Jalapeno Poppers

Baked jalapenos on a plate with dipping sauce.
Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A classic option when you need something with a little spice and crunch. Jalapeno Poppers are quick to make and always a favorite for appetizer spreads. They’re simple but pack a bold flavor in every bite. Great for folks who enjoy a bit of heat in their snacks.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you need something quick and packed with flavor, these bite-sized treats are ideal. Bacon Wrapped Smokies pair smoky with sweet for an unforgettable flavor combo. They’re simple to prepare and perfect for bringing to any gathering. You’d be surprised how fast a tray of these disappears.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms with crispy shallots and parsley.
Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These bites are perfect when you want something a little different. Stuffed Mushrooms are small but big on flavor, making them a great addition to any appetizer spread. They’re quick to make and always impress a crowd. Just one bite and you’ll understand why they’re so popular at events.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for an easy finger food with a familiar flavor, these are always a safe bet. Pizza Rolls combine cheesy, saucy goodness into a snack anyone can enjoy. They’re simple but always hit the mark for gatherings. Toss them onto a platter, and you’re good to go!
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A refreshing dip that works beautifully with veggies, bread, or chips. Tzatziki is creamy and light, making it a versatile addition to any appetizer table. It’s simple to whip up but full of flavor. Grab a bowl and watch it become everyone’s go-to dip.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need something fast and widely loved, these are never a bad idea. Pigs in a Blanket combine flaky pastry with a juicy filling for a comforting snack. They’re always easy to make and even easier to eat. You’ll appreciate how quickly these little bites are devoured at any event.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

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