I Count On 29 Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes Every Year

The family may argue about football or who’s in charge of dishes, but 29 appetizer recipes are the one thing everyone agrees on. The trays disappear faster than the jokes at the kids’ table. People hover so close they look like they’re guarding their territory. By the time dinner arrives, the appetizers have already stolen the spotlight.

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Sausage meets cheese in a way that feels just right for any gathering. Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls offer a hearty option with a kick of flavor from a familiar favorite. They’re easy to grab and small enough to enjoy without being a meal on their own. Perfect for welcoming everyone to your table before the big meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Loaded Potato Skins

It’s hard to resist the crispy edge combined with a warm, soft inside. Loaded Potato Skins add just the right balance with their toppings and support any appetizer spread. Their shape makes them easy to handle, so no one needs a plate. They bring comfort and a bit of excitement to the table.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Restaurant-style bread is always a win, especially for guests who recognize it. Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits are flaky, buttery, and a bit of a conversation starter. These will make your appetizer round feel a bit fancier while still being approachable. Perfect for passing around while everyone arrives.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Maryland Crab Cake

Seafood brings a freshness not found in every appetizer platter. Maryland Crab Cake has just enough flavor to stand out without overpowering other items on the table. They’re great for anyone who enjoys something light but packed with substance. Bringing these in adds variety to any party lineup.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Adding bacon instantly makes something feel more inviting. Bacon Wrapped Smokies keep things bite-sized and ideal for mixing in with other small appetizers. They’re a crowd favorite where one often leads to the next. Bringing them out sets a fun, familiar tone for the meal ahead.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Italian Sub Pinwheels

When classic flavors combine with bite-sized portions, everyone is curious to try. Italian Sub Pinwheels layer bold ingredients in a way that always stands out on the plate. The swirl of colors adds interest while providing something recognizable. They’re a reliable choice for mixing up textures and flavors on the table.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

Caprese Appetizer

Pairing fresh options with richer appetizers keeps a menu balanced. Caprese Appetizer provides a clean, bright option for those who prefer something light and simple. The pop of colors creates a visual balance to heavier dishes. Adding these to your list gives variety without feeling out of place.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Bite-sized potato options often attract attention with their texture. Mini Hasselback Potatoes are ridged and fun to eat while catching all the flavor with their presentation. They’re perfect for smaller gatherings where guests linger near the food. Bringing something small yet layered adds variety to any table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Brats in a Blanket

Combining a hearty option with a fun format keeps things interesting. Brats in a Blanket bring a twist to a familiar recipe with their unique size. They’re ideal for anyone looking for something more filling but still light enough to pair with other appetizers. These keep things easy to eat without utensils.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Salmon Deviled Eggs

Everyone has their favorite items at gatherings, and eggs always make the list. Salmon Deviled Eggs mix tradition with a hint of something different to balance the format. They look elegant next to other appetizers while staying simple to serve. It’s an easy way to add layers to your menu without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

Charcuterie Board

A wide range of foods invites everyone to explore what they like. Charcuterie Board delivers options that range from sweet to savory all in one space. Perfect for building conversation as guests share what they’re trying. Including this ensures there’s something for everyone without having to think too hard.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed Mushrooms are soft on the inside with just enough flavor and texture to keep things interesting. They’re great for adding variety among appetizers that lean toward the lighter side. These provide a simple way to balance your full lineup of options. A warm dish always feels welcoming in any setting.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Italian Sliders

Options with bold flavor always catch attention first. Italian Sliders are hearty, packed with layers, and easy to grab during a gathering. Their compact size makes them perfect for small portions while delivering enough to feel substantial. These bring a reliable way to fill the spread with something recognizable.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Something spicy always gets people talking. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers keep that kick but blend it with a comforting wrap of smoky flavor. Every bite feels layered with just enough heat to keep people interested. Including this brings a nice surprise without being too overwhelming for most guests.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Pigs in a Blanket

Familiar options often get overlooked but are always a hit. Pigs in a Blanket have that nostalgic appeal combined with the simplicity everyone appreciates. Their easy-to-eat design makes them great for all ages at the gathering. Perfect alongside fancier dishes to keep things balanced and friendly.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Crostini Appetizers

Small bites feel elegant when presented just right. Crostini Appetizers provide layers of texture and flavor without being overly complicated. Their versatility means they fit well with anything on the appetizer table. Guests enjoy the variety of topping choices, making it a little interactive, too.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Roast Beef Sliders

Adding something hearty but compact to the spread keeps things balanced. Roast Beef Sliders deliver richness with every bite without feeling too heavy. Portable and easy to handle, they’re a welcome option for someone who’s not looking to sit. These bring both bold flavor and practicality to the gathering.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A touch of spice combined with cheesy elements always stands out. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are a fun option for those looking for bold flavors. Their small size makes them an easy grab, even for those unsure about spicier options. These bring excitement to the mix without over-complicating things.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Party Crostini

Finger food that feels fun always gets people engaged. Party Crostini adds a bit of height and visual interest to the table while offering a variety of options. Bite-sized and crisp, they’re easy to eat without taking up too much space in your menu. This is a good option for those looking to try just a little of everything.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

Sausage Balls

Mixing flavors into bite-sized portions makes these irresistible. Sausage Balls have a comforting warmth that fits right into large or small gatherings. There’s nothing fussy about them, making them perfect for any crowd. They pair perfectly with other appetizers, making them an easy second choice for anyone.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Cheeseburger Sliders

Classic ideas done right often feel the most inviting. Cheeseburger Sliders bring a mini version of something well-loved and familiar to your gathering. They’re easy to enjoy without committing to something too heavy before the main meal. These are a great way to offer something simple but widely appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Vegan Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Offering plant-based choices makes your table more inclusive for everyone. Vegan Roasted Pumpkin Hummus takes gentle, comforting flavors and combines them into a smooth texture. It pairs easily with other staples and keeps options open for those avoiding meat or dairy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Shrimp Toast

A seafood option you can hold is rare for the appetizer table. Shrimp Toast combines a crispy base with hints of rich flavor from the topping. Its size makes it easy to mix with other offerings without feeling repetitive. This is the kind of dish that people remember because it’s different but fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Potato Skins

A crispy option with a soft center balances any menu well. Potato Skins offer a great mix of flavors and textures in one easy-to-hold dish. They’re small enough to serve casually but bring enough to the table to feel filling. Adding these ensures there’s something beloved by all ages.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots bring a little drama to your appetizer spread with their bite-sized format. They look different enough to draw people in while easy to mix with other choices. These work well for small gatherings or as just one of many options at larger tables. A fun shape and smoky flavor make these stand out.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Rotel Dip

Warm dips are always a favorite with crowds because they feel comforting. Rotel Dip offers a rich, creamy texture that pairs easily with chips or even veggies. It’s the kind of dish where people keep going back for more until it’s gone. Perfect to keep everyone mingling around the table until the main attraction is ready.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Shrimp Ceviche

Adding something cool to the spread keeps the balance in check. Shrimp Ceviche brings light, fresh flavors with a texture people recognize and enjoy. It’s an easy choice for guests looking for something unique but not overwhelming. Making sure this is placed next to richer dishes maximizes its refreshing appeal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Turkey Sliders

Sliders always simplify things, especially for busy tables. Turkey Sliders offer a leaner alternative while still being tasty and compact. Their size allows for easy mixing and matching with other appetizers. Having these makes it easy for everyone to try a little of everything first.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Cheese-based appetizers often become the first thing gone at a party. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls level up by offering just enough heat and crunch to get people back for more. Their shareable format makes it simple for guests to grab with crackers or bread.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls