43 Christmas Appetizers Ideas My Family Asks Me To Bring

Holiday gatherings seem to turn into a friendly competition over who brings the best snacks. With 43 Christmas appetizer ideas, that title’s hard to lose. Each bite keeps the conversation going, the laughter flowing, and the plates mysteriously empty. It’s the kind of spread that makes people linger by the food table instead of the tree.

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture. — Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Cowboy Sliders

A close-up of sliders filled with cooked ground beef, melted cheese, bacon, and sliced jalapeños on a white surface, with some jalapeño slices scattered nearby. — Cowboy Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Little bites with big flavor always stand out at gatherings. Cowboy Sliders are a fun choice perfect for piling on a platter. They pack just the right mix of hearty and snackable in each bite. These are always a hit and disappear fast at parties.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Sliders

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board. — Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something awesome about easy finger food that looks festive. Caprese Appetizer is one of those go-to options that feel a little fresh but still casual. They’re simple to put together and everybody loves the combination. Perfect for balancing out the spread of heavier options.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

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.

Crowd-pleasers are always smart to bring to holiday spreads. Roast Beef Sliders give everyone a hearty extra without overpowering the table. They’ve got a little something for every age group. Easy to grab, they’re a no-fuss win for mingling.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders

Caprese Skewers

For something simple and fresh-looking, Caprese Skewers fit the bill. They’re the kind of pick perfect for grabbing while holding a drink. These are super easy to adapt depending on the crowd. Bonus, they look good alongside holiday-themed dishes.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Skewers

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture. — Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Building a tray of mini options? Cheeseburger Sliders are one of those easy swaps for a family favorite. Everyone knows them, and they always work well in bite-sized form. They balance the fun of a festive buffet with comforting classics.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Cranberry Brie Bites

You’ll add a little sweetness and creaminess to your tray when you include Cranberry Brie Bites. They’re that dish where sweet and savory fans both feel happy. While they aren’t your typical app, they’ve got just enough of that holiday feel. Perfect to share with a group, these stand out.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

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.

Party trays deserve toppings with a little more bite. Meatball Sliders bring a stick-to-your-ribs kind of feel without being full plates. Simple, cozy, and easy to slice into; they pair well with lots. A dish that people can grab and repeat bites during the night.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Christmas Cheese Trees

You can’t go wrong with playful, seasonal presentations. Christmas Cheese Trees will be a fun visual add, and they bring flavor variety to simple ingredients. Everyone loves something that can double as decor for plates. They’re a conversation starter and pleasing snack.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Cheese Trees

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface. — Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Keeping things shareable often makes all the difference in party planning. Pinwheel Sandwiches give classic wrap ingredients a new look. They’re handy, easy-to-pack twists that fill gaps on the platter. Kids and adults both seem to go for them without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy. — Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bite-sized indulgent snacks always get reactions. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots combine a smoky, sturdy base with something a little unexpected. They’re different enough that people may ask for details. Bring these when you want a guaranteed “what are these?” moment.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Party Crostini

Slices of toasted bread stacked together. — Party Crostini. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Small bites with so many topping options are great for any spread. Party Crostini lets you mix creativity with a customizable snack. These are ones you can shake up each time for variety. Handy to grab, they’re easy to fit into every party menu.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

Charcuterie Board

Putting together a platter is always a great idea for gatherings. Charcuterie Board gives everyone a little something to munch on, whether it’s meat, cheese, or something sweet. They’re super customizable and work for guests of all ages. It’s a relaxed and shareable option that brings everything together.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

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.

Bite-sized appetizers are always a win at holiday parties. Crostini Appetizers are easy to assemble and offer a perfect crunch with every bite. You can top them with a variety of spreads or toppings to suit your guests’ preferences. They’re bite-sized and always finish up fast.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce. — Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

People always come back for more when you bring Sausage Balls. They’re small, flavorful, and perfect for popping in your mouth while chatting. You’ll appreciate how simple they are to whip up and take along. Plus, they hold up well for parties and don’t need much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Loaded Potato Skins

Everyone loves crispy, cheesy, and hearty snacks like Loaded Potato Skins. They’re filling enough to keep everyone happy but still light enough for appetizers. You can easily prep them ahead of time, saving you some last-minute stress. These don’t seem to stay on the plate long!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips. — Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

It’s hard to go wrong with Rotel Dip for something warm and shareable. It’s rich, creamy, and pairs perfectly with chips or veggies. You can adjust how spicy or mild it is depending on your guests. Plus, it’s super easy to keep warm throughout the gathering.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Shrimp Cocktail

A staple appetizer everyone seems to enjoy is Shrimp Cocktail. It’s light, chilled, and easy to serve at any party. The mild seafood pairs perfectly with dipping options. Best of all, you can set up a quick platter, and it still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center. — Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Add something fun and unique to the table with Mini Hasselback Potatoes. They’re a small, bite-sized twist on a classic potato side dish. Perfect for dipping or topping with extras, they’re easy to handle at a buffet-style setup. These little potato bites tend to disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Hummus

You’ll please plenty of guests by bringing Hummus to the gathering. It goes well with so many dippers, whether it’s veggies, chips, or pita bread. It’s also a nice option for anyone looking for something lighter or plant-based. You can quickly scoop it into a bowl and go.
Get the Recipe: Hummus

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread. — Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A fun idea to bring is Shrimp Toast, which always surprises and delights people. These crispy little bites bring a satisfying balance that’s also easy to make. Perfect for both kids and adults, they disappear from the plate fast. They’re a nice option to break up the usual choices.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Beer Cheese Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into creamy cheese dip sprinkled with paprika and black pepper. — Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing beats Beer Cheese Dip when you want something warm and a little different. It’s creamy and flavorful, heating up nicely on a cold evening. Simple to serve with soft pretzels, crackers, or bread, it’s great for sharing. You may want to bring extra; it’s a guaranteed hit.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip

Brats in a Blanket

Sliced sausage wrapped in golden-brown pastry, sprinkled with sesame and poppy seeds. — Brats in a Blanket. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everybody loves bite-sized snacks like Brats in a Blanket at holiday parties. They’re simple, hearty, and easy to grab while mingling. With a perfect balance of soft and savory, they’re always a thumbs-up snack. These bite-sized wraps are sure to disappear from the plate.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

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.

You gotta try these bacon-wrapped treats at your next gathering. Bacon Wrapped Smokies are like little bites of heaven that combine a smoky and crispy kick. They’re super popular and vanish quickly on any party tray. Trust me, your family will love ’em.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Turkey Pinwheels

Turkey Pinwheels are perfect for parties and look really cool on a platter. They’re a tasty blend of textures that make them a hit every time. Easy to grab and eat, these pinwheels are great for adults and kids alike. They always get compliments from everyone who tries them.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pinwheels

Salmon Deviled Eggs

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background. — Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone loves a good Salmon Deviled Eggs at holiday parties. They mix two favorites into one tasty bite that’s simple but elegant. With a bit of a seafood twist, these are a nice change from the usual. They’re always appreciated and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

Caprese Candy Cane

A plate with tomatoes, basil and bread on it. — Caprese Candy Cane. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You’ll love how festive Caprese Candy Cane looks on a holiday table. It’s a fun spin on a classic, and the shape really stands out. The combination is simple but works every time. This is an easy way to bring some holiday flair to the party.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Candy Cane

Pigs in a Blanket

Bite-sized and always a favorite, Pigs in a Blanket are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Kids and adults alike seem to reach for these first. They’re easy to share and eat without a mess. You might want to bring extras because they vanish fast.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Baked Brie

It’s hard not to love Baked Brie at a holiday gathering. It has a perfect mix of creaminess and warmth that fits the season. Pairing it with something crunchy gives it that great texture balance. This one always feels a little fancy but is super easy to handle.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie

Italian Sliders

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

Small but packed with flavor, Italian Sliders are perfect if you want to bring something filling. They’re a great blend of layers, and no one can resist pulling one apart. These work great for feeding a group without too much hassle. People will appreciate something hearty among all the snacks.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Mini Goat Cheese Balls

Goat cheese balls on a wooden cutting board. — Mini Goat Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re after something unique, bring Mini Goat Cheese Balls to the table. They’re easy to grab and perfect to mix with crackers or veggies. Everyone loves having a mix of options, and these add a fresh twist. Plus, they look fun and stand out on the appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Mini Goat Cheese Balls

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.

Bringing Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers is a surefire way to spice things up. They have that mix of heat and richness that works so well. You can decide how hot you want them, depending on your crowd. These go fast, so grab one for yourself before they’re gone.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Mozzarella Sticks

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

Everyone recognizes Mozzarella Sticks, and they’re perfect for dipping. They’re a classic appetizer with that crispy outside and gooey center. These are great for sharing around the table. No one’s going to complain if you show up with these.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Sticks

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A bowl of golden-brown, crispy fried arancini served in a white dish on a plain background. — Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you want to switch it up, try bringing Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. These bite-sized snacks bring a little kick but aren’t overwhelming. They have a crispy outside with a flavorful inside that keeps people grabbing more. You’ll love how quickly they disappear once they’re served.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Potato Skins

Packed with hearty goodness, Potato Skins are a great addition to holiday spreads. They’re crispy, loaded, and hit the spot every time. People love piling toppings on them and making them their own. This is the kind of appetizer that works for every age group.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper. — Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Go big with Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls, they’re rich and perfect with crackers or veggie sticks. They’re designed to be shared but will definitely turn heads on the table. The combination of ingredients always draws people in for at least a taste. This is the one appetizer that is hard to walk by without grabbing a bite.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Smashed Potatoes

Potatoes don’t always have to be boring or predictable. Smashed Potatoes are a fun twist that bring out the best in every bite. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, giving you a perfect mix of textures. A dish like this is sure to be a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes

Italian Sub Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheel sandwiches filled with spinach, cream cheese, red peppers, and herbs, neatly stacked and garnished with parsley. — Italian Sub Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Appetizers don’t get much easier or more crowd-pleasing. Italian Sub Pinwheels are a great option for a grab-and-go vibe. Little bites pack all the goodness of a classic sub, but in hand-held form. They always disappear fast at gatherings, so you may want to make extra.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

Deviled Eggs

Parties feel incomplete without something timeless and reliable. Deviled Eggs are always a hit because they’re simple yet packed with tons of appeal. Everyone knows what to expect, and yet people can’t get enough of them. They’re easy to plate, share, and enjoy with all ages.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Shrimp Ceviche

Not every Christmas appetizer needs to be heavy or fried. Shrimp Ceviche is light yet packed with fresh, vibrant energy. It’s a fantastic option if you want to bring a seafood twist to the table. Guests will love the change of pace this dish offers.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side. — Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for something less common but highly sharable, this one’s for you. Muhammara with Pita Bread is a dip that brings something unexpected to the table. It offers a richer, deeper taste that’s perfect for hearty dipping. Pair it with warm, toasted pita, and it’ll quickly become a talking point.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

Antipasto Skewers

Appetizers on sticks just make everything easier. Antipasto Skewers take all the best parts of an antipasto platter and turn them bite-sized. They’re simple to eat, with no hassle of double-dipping or heavy plating. Perfect for mingling since they don’t need utensils.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheels filled with a creamy mixture, garnished with herbs, served with bowls of salsa and breadcrumbs. — Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring a little spice to the appetizer lineup this year. Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are just the right mix of bold and comforting. The creamy filling balances well with the heat, making them impossible to eat just one. With such vibrant bites, they’re sure to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Bite-sized snacks can still pack in some good savory goodness. Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls offer cheesy, rich layers that pair perfectly with sausage. They’re warm, hearty, and fit well for any holiday spread. Plus, they’re easy to pop in your mouth on the go during the party.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls