35 New Year’s Eve Appetizer Ideas That Bring a Bit of Fun to the Spread

The best appetizers keep guests snacking and chatting, especially on big occasions like New Year’s Eve. This list features 35 appetizer ideas you can mix and match without overthinking plans. Each option works on its own, making it easier to build a spread that fits your crowd. The focus stays on flexibility and keeping fun.

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

Crispy 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. — Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone loves the combination of crispy edges and creamy insides, and these Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes deliver both in every bite. They’re perfect for adding variety to the spread, complementing both light and hearty options. Smaller portions make them easy for guests to enjoy while mingling. They never fail to impress.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

A plate of deviled eggs garnished with paprika and chopped parsley, with a small dish of sauce on the side. — Million Dollar Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Turn simple eggs into something extraordinary with these Million Dollar Deviled Eggs. They’re the centerpiece of any appetizer table, getting guests chatting about their rich flavor. Perfectly creamy and packed with personality, they’re a favorite at celebrations. Serving them always guarantees a second round of compliments.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby. — Crispy Candied Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a unique twist to the table with this Crispy Candied Tanghulu recipe. Its crunchy coating and delicate sweetness spark curiosity before the first bite. It’s one of those appetizers that feels like a playful treat for something special. People love the satisfying crunch paired with fruit’s natural juiciness.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Hamburger Sliders

Three sesame seed buns filled with melted cheese and ground beef are arranged on a wooden board. — Hamburger Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

These bite-sized Hamburger Sliders are the ultimate mix of convenience and flavor. Perfect for sharing, they offer all the satisfaction of a full-sized burger without the mess. Their easy-to-grab size makes them a favorite at parties. Guests always grab them quickly, so you might want to make extra for the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Sliders

Crispy Egg Roll

A wooden tray with spring rolls and lime wedges lined with parchment paper sits next to a small bowl of dipping sauce on a light surface. — Crispy Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A platter of this Crispy Egg Roll recipe creates instant excitement. Stuffed with just the right goodness, the crunch when biting in always earns attention. These rolls offer a filling combination of textures that stand out from the spread. Bringing them out guarantees lively chatter between bites.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Egg Roll

Scallion Pancakes

Thin, flaky layers make these Scallion Pancakes a crowd favorite. Their vibrant flavor and irresistible texture hold their spot as an appetizer everyone reaches for. The first bite is an experience, helping kick things off with something memorable. They’re always one of the first dishes to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Close-up of baked pinwheel appetizers filled with cheese and ham, topped with black pepper and garnished with sliced green onions. — Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you need a crowd-pleaser, this Ham and Cheese Pinwheels recipe is a sure bet. Flaky layers paired with savory ham and gooey cheese give these handheld treats their charm. They’re ideal for everything from family get-togethers to festive celebrations. People often grab a few before even noticing the other dishes on the table.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Crispy Conch Fritters

A plate of golden-brown fritters garnished with chopped herbs, served with a dipping sauce and a wedge of lemon. — Crispy Conch Fritters. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Treat guests to something special with these Crispy Conch Fritters, offering an unexpected pop of flavor. The golden, crispy exterior leads to a soft, flavorful inside that feels just right. These fritters add a delicious variety to any appetizer lineup. Guests often find themselves reaching for more than they planned.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Conch Fritters

Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

A plate of baked crescent rolls filled with slices of ham and melted cheese, topped with black sesame seeds and garnished with parsley. — Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Flaky, golden crescent rolls wrapped around savory ham and gooey cheese make this Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls recipe a guaranteed winner. They’re big on flavor without being fussy, matching perfectly with any party vibe. These rolls are a hit for both their sheer comfort and their simple, irresistible charm.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

Smoked Mackerel Pate

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light brown spread, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices. — Smoked Mackerel Pate. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

For something a little different, this Smoked Mackerel Pate brings bold richness to the table. Pairing it with crackers or bread lets the full flavor shine through. It’s a great choice for adding variety to the appetizer spread, and it’s always a favorite among those looking to try something new yet familiar.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate

Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

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

Few appetizers spark excitement quite like this Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies recipe. Smoky, savory goodness wrapped in crispy bacon creates a combination that feels indulgent yet easy to grab. Everyone loves how they balance big flavor with simplicity. They usually disappear fast, so plan ahead if there’s a big crowd.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels

Close-up of puff pastry rounds topped with ground meat, shredded lettuce, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce, arranged on parchment paper. — Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Transform classic burger flavors into something creative with this Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels recipe. The familiar taste catches everyone’s attention, while the pinwheel presentation adds a fun twist. These are just as practical to serve as they are delicious to bite. Guests often return to the table looking for more of these tempting rolls.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels

Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

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

Add warmth to the table with these Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls that combine boldness and tenderness in each bite. The pairing of sausage with cheesy goodness wins hearts instantly. They’re a perfect addition to any celebration, filling the air with excitement the moment they’re served. People often ask if there’s a secret ingredient involved.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background. — Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Step up your app game with these Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. They bring a tropical twist that’s sure to delight everyone. Imagine the burst of flavor in every bite, setting the tone for the night ahead. Perfect for sharing, these sliders are a must-try for your New Year’s Eve spread.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Loaded Taco Dip

Glass bowl with layered dip topped with guacamole, sliced jalapeños, black olives, and tomatoes. A tortilla chip is dipping into the bowl. — Loaded Taco Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nothing beats the crowd-pleasing power of this Loaded Taco Dip. It’s packed with layer upon layer of your favorite Tex-Mex ingredients. The first time you serve this, be prepared for it to disappear quickly. Bring this to your gathering and watch it become the star of the appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Taco Dip

Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

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

Picture the look on people’s faces when you serve up these Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders. They’re a mini version of everyone’s favorite comfort food, perfect for the occasion. Every bite brings that classic cheeseburger taste, but in a shareable and fun size. A guaranteed hit for your New Year celebration.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Baked baby potatoes topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chopped green onions on parchment paper. — Loaded Baked Potato Bites. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This time, surprise your guests with Loaded Baked Potato Bites. They deliver a burst of flavors with all the delicious toppings you love on a baked potato. Easy to handle and even easier to eat, they’re an irresistible bite-sized treat for the festivities. Make them your party-starter and enjoy the compliments.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Pineapple Cheese Ball

A round cheese ball coated in chopped nuts, garnished with a sprig of rosemary, sits on a wooden board with crackers beside it; a portion is scooped out. — Pineapple Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bring a touch of sweetness to your appetizer table with this Pineapple Cheese Ball. The surprising pairing of pineapple and cheese will have people talking. It’s the ultimate combination of savory and sweet in a perfect party-size portion. Definitely a conversation starter for your New Year’s Eve gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cheese Ball

Savory Brats in a Blanket

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

Upgrade your spread with these Savory Brats in a Blanket. Wrapped in a delicious crust, each bite offers a mix of textures and tastes. They are an upgrade from your classic pigs in a blanket, making them a fancy yet fun option. Your guests will love this innovative twist on a traditional favorite.
Get the Recipe: Savory Brats in a Blanket

Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus

You can’t go wrong with serving this Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus. The caramelized onions give the hummus a deep, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with any dippable. It’s a unique option that stands out among typical appetizers. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a New Year favorite.
Get the Recipe: Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A baked pull-apart bread ring with melted cheese and cranberries on a gray plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs. — Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Impress everyone by serving Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. The blend of brie and cranberries brings a festive touch to your menu. With its pull-apart style, it’s great for sharing and starts off the night right. Enjoy the perfect mix of tangy and creamy flavors in every tear.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Savory 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. — Savory Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

People are always asking for more when I bring these Savory Meatball Sliders. These mini sandwiches are packed with flavorful meatballs and a sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve these and watch how quickly they become a favorite at your New Year’s Eve party.
Get the Recipe: Savory Meatball Sliders

Rich Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies. — Rich Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

End your spread on a sweet note with this Rich Oreo Cheesecake. It combines the beloved flavors of Oreos with a creamy cheesecake, making every bite irresistible. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent and satisfies any sweet tooth. Make sure to have extra because it’s bound to disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Rich Oreo Cheesecake

Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Savory Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Treat everyone to something different with Savory Turkey Pinwheels. These bite-sized delights offer the perfect combination of savory turkey and your favorite wrap ingredients. Easy to make and even easier to eat, they are sure to be a hit. Add them to your New Year’s Eve menu for a fresh appetizer option.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels

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.

Add some excitement to your party with these Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. They are a unique twist on traditional bacon appetizers, bringing a smoky, savory flavor that’s unforgettable. Guests will love the creative presentation and bold tastes. Perfect as a conversation starter for your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, purple cabbage, carrots, greens, and topped with chopped peanuts and peanut sauce, served on a plate. — Shrimp Spring Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For something a bit lighter, serve Shrimp Spring Rolls at your gathering. These rolls are fresh, light, and perfect for a festive occasion. Each bite is filled with shrimp and crisp veggies, offering a burst of flavors. It’s an elegant and refreshing choice for your New Year’s Eve spread.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

Tangy Key Lime Bars

A close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, and whipped topping, garnished with lime slices in the background. — Tangy Key Lime Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something irresistible about this Tangy Key Lime Bars recipe. The bright, citrusy flavor is a refreshing dessert that cuts through heavier party fare. These bars balance sweet and tart, making them a conversation starter. Perfect for adding a pop of zing to your table.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Key Lime Bars

Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

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

When you want a dip that’s bursting with flavor, this Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread is a must-try. Its smooth, smoky richness sets it apart from the usual party dips. Paired with soft pita bread, it’s perfect for effortless munching. Expect this one to be gone in no time.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

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

Few things are as universally loved as this Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks recipe. With their golden, crunchy coating and gooey center, they’re the ultimate comfort appetizer. These are the kind of snacks people keep coming back for. They’ve got that perfect balance of crunch and melt.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

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.

Add a touch of indulgence with this Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls recipe. Creamy, smoky, and with a hint of spice, it’s a snack that will wow anyone who takes a bite. Roll them up ahead of time, and they’re ready in minutes for party guests. They’re an instant crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Crispy Crab Rangoon

A bowl of fried wontons served with a side of red dipping sauce and a small dish of chopped green onions. — Crispy Crab Rangoon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Turn up the crunch factor with this Crispy Crab Rangoon recipe that’s hard to resist. The golden, flaky exterior packs the perfect crunch, giving way to a deliciously creamy filling. It’s always the first plate to empty when guests arrive. Get ready for plenty of compliments.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Crab Rangoon

Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Round baked brie cheese topped with walnuts, fresh thyme, and drizzled honey, served in a wooden container. — Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for comfort in a bite, this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie delivers. Creamy and decadent, it’s great served with crackers or fresh fruit. It’s the kind of dish that’s both easy to make and impossible for guests to forget. A simple way to make your spread special.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side. — Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Few appetizers combine spice and crunch as perfectly as this Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Each bite is packed with bold flavor and a crisp texture that feels light yet satisfying. It’s a dish that stands out on any spread. Prepare for plenty of happy taste testers.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

A platter of whipped cheese topped with roasted cranberries, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions. — Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Guests will love the balance of flavors in this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. The touch of sweetness pairs perfectly with an unexpected kick of heat, hitting all the right notes. It’s a vibrant dip that upgrades snack time. Serve it with crackers or chips for easy munching.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Bring some playfulness to your table with this Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls recipe. They pack comforting, cheesy flavor and a crunchy outer layer that’s hard to resist. Great for guests of all ages, these rolls are fun, easy to eat, and guaranteed to keep everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls