My 33 Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes Always Get the Most Praise

The secret to a stress-free holiday meal might just start before the main course, and these 33 appetizer recipes prove it. They’re the reason guests show up early and act like waiting for dinner is suddenly enjoyable. Laughter always seems louder when these snacks appear, and nobody minds if dinner runs a little late.

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.

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. — Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

If you’re looking for a crowd-approved snack, Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are a surefire hit. They bring a great mix of cheesy and savory notes that get everyone grabbing for more. Perfect for an appetizer spread, they provide something different and fun.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

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.

A favorite for parties, Beer Cheese Dip delivers amazing flavor with each bite. It pairs wonderfully with everything from pretzels to veggies, making it versatile. Serve it warm for that delicious gooey texture everyone loves. With its creamy consistency, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip

Antipasto Skewers

Appetizer skewers are always fun, and Antipasto Skewers add a unique touch to the table. They’re colorful, packed with different textures, and appeal to everyone’s palate. Guests enjoy picking their favorite combinations off the skewer. Great for mingling and casual snacking.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

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.

For those looking for a twist on a classic, Brats in a Blanket make a perfect choice. They take the well-loved bratwurst and wrap it in buttery dough. These hand-held bites are great for dipping and sharing. They’ll likely be the first thing gone from your appetizer table.
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.

It’s hard to resist anything wrapped in bacon, especially when it’s Bacon Wrapped Smokies at the appetizer table. These bite-sized pieces are indulgent while being easy to handle during conversations. They balance a sweet and savory flavor that guests enjoy. A perfect plate to share.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Loaded Potato Skins

Crowd-pleasing snacks don’t get much better than Loaded Potato Skins, which always bring excitement to any table. They’re hearty enough to hold their own yet easy enough for guests to enjoy with one hand. Each one feels familiar, but is still worth grabbing again. They often become the first platter to empty.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls. — Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls make a statement without taking over the menu. Their soft outside hides a flavor that wakes up any spread. People love how simple they look, but how much comfort they deliver in one bite. They often steal attention before the main meal even starts.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Caprese Appetizer

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

Simple bites that feel fresh are always welcome at Thanksgiving, and Caprese Appetizer nails that balance. It’s lightweight enough not to fill guests up while still being satisfying. The combination is always a success, pulling everyone to grab one quickly. Works well in any festive setting.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Deviled Eggs

Traditional but never boring, Deviled Eggs stand out on any table. With a creamy filling and just the right hint of spice, they are always well-received. Easy to make in advance, they help save time on the day of your gathering. Perfect for any occasion, and they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

When you want something small yet filling, Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders hit the mark every time. They’re rich without being heavy and work well for any type of crowd. People love how easy they are to grab while chatting or watching a game. These sliders have a way of disappearing faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

A turkey charcuterie board features a playful face design with sliced meats, cheeses, pretzels, grapes, olives, breadsticks, and two candy eyes on an apple. — Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Guests always gather around a Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board, drawn by its variety and playful setup. It turns simple snacking into something fun and shareable. Everyone can find something they enjoy, which makes it a perfect icebreaker. It’s the kind of board that makes hosting look effortless.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

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.

Familiar flavors keep everyone coming back for more, and Cheeseburger Sliders hit the mark. They’re easy to grab and recreate traditional comfort food in a mini way. These sliders are a plate that’s always cleared out by the end of the night. Works great as a staple Thanksgiving snack.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger 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.

Small bites that feel effortless to enjoy are key, which makes Crostini Appetizers a perfect choice. They offer lots of variety on a single plate while being light and easy to pick up. People appreciate customizable options like these at parties. Great for casual snacking in large crowds.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Sliders create a great balance of flavor and size, and Ham and Cheese Sliders take that energy up a notch. These classics feel right at home in front of guests as they grab their first bites of the evening. Packed with flavor in an easy form, they get people grabbing fast. Always a dependable win.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Maryland Crab Cake

Anyone who’s had Maryland Crab Cake knows it’s more than just another appetizer. Its golden outside and soft inside make it a small luxury on any spread. Guests see it as something special without being overdone. It’s a dish that instantly adds class to any table.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

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.

People enjoy trying something bold, and Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites bring just that. They offer a fun mix of heat and crunch that wakes up the party mood. Guests love how different they feel from the usual spread. It’s one of those dishes people talk about while going for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Italian Sliders

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

These sliders feel inspired and unique, and Italian Sliders are a plate that guests don’t forget easily. They bring a variety of good flavors without being overwhelming in portion size. Great for casual grazing as people mingle. They look and taste great, making them an easy conversation starter too.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Several smashed, roasted baby potatoes garnished with herbs and grated cheese are arranged on a baking sheet. — Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sheer simplicity wins here, as Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes become a wonderful addition to bites that bring a crunch to appetizers. They’re filling without being too heavy and appeal to multiple palettes. Reliable and delicious each time they show up at celebrations like Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

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.

Dips are always crowd hits, and Muhammara with Pita Bread brings something guests find interesting alongside more traditional spreads. It’s approachable yet unique in any gathering where people pick bites in rotation. Works great for grouping guests around early snacks. Connects global flavors to classic meals.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

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.

Fun and crowd-friendly, Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders always get attention once they arrive. They mix sweet and smoky notes that stand out without overpowering other dishes. Their size makes them perfect for grabbing between conversations. They bring a relaxed and welcoming feel to any party.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Party Crostini

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

Guests love a bit of crunch, and Party Crostini gives just that with a touch of style. They look simple yet bring variety to the snack table. These small bites add texture to every spread without being too heavy. It’s an easy go-to when you want something quick and well-liked.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

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.

Small but rich in comfort, Meatball Sliders fit in perfectly with both casual and formal setups. They’re the kind of appetizer that fills the room with excitement. Guests never stop at just one because of their satisfying size and taste. It’s no surprise they often steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Pigs in a Blanket

Bite-sized classics like Pigs in a Blanket turn heads every gathering thanks to their every-occasion energy. Great for kids and adults alike who nibble snack foods by hand through busy parties. Work around fun shapes and easy touches that make it perfect for casual moods. Fold into the spread easily.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

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.

These mini versions grab attention, and Mini Hasselback Potatoes balance texture fans love seeing by building comfort dishes blending munch-sized appeal all styles guests adore by presentation curves themselves at visible hot plates. Always warm for their own flavor-perfect fun.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

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.

Taking bigger entree vibes down snack forms feels Roast Beef Sliders aimed masterfully weave together smaller beef-pack pleasures intact styles altogether into meat-focused sandwich bites more gathered casual Thanksgiving palates plate-perfect “Mom I’d grab seconds dishes” filled simpler fun versions smiling.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders

Pizza Rolls

Perfect, relaxed comfort food appetizers come Pizza Rolls ways rotating spread watch crowd delighted, clip finishes smiles flavors pop patches shared know lead-in great match anyone options mix every scene show casual organizers work hands hurried tray time thankful easy guests.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Cheese ball shaped like a pumpkin with a green stem, coated in crumbled topping, surrounded by herbs and decorative pumpkins on a wooden surface. — Pumpkin-Shaped Cheeseball. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you want a show-stopping centerpiece, Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball grabs attention before the first bite. Its playful shape makes it both festive and functional. Guests enjoy breaking into it and pairing it with their favorite sides. It adds a bit of fun personality to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Stuffed Mushrooms

Elegant yet approachable, Stuffed Mushrooms never fail to make an impression. Their small size makes them easy to enjoy while mingling. People appreciate how they fit right in with both casual and fancy menus. They bring a warm, balanced touch to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

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.

Simple to serve and quick to vanish, Rotel Dip always keeps guests gathered around the table. Its rich and creamy texture goes with almost anything. It’s the kind of recipe that people ask for again and again. Perfect for keeping the energy going throughout the party.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Shrimp Ceviche

Bright and refreshing, Shrimp Ceviche brings a nice change from the usual heavier snacks. Its lightness balances out other rich foods on the table. Guests enjoy its clean taste and colorful look. It’s a smart choice when you want variety without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

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.

Everyone loves fun food, and Smoky Bacon Pig Shots deliver that excitement in small bites. They bring crunch, flavor, and a touch of surprise to the table. Guests often call them addictive because they can’t stop at one. They’re a sure way to get people talking.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

A wooden bowl of hummus garnished with chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and herbs, drizzled with olive oil and paprika. — Roasted Pumpkin Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For a dip that feels seasonal but still timeless, Roasted Pumpkin Hummus adds warmth to any snack spread. It’s creamy, smooth, and pairs easily with many sides. Guests find it inviting and slightly unexpected. It’s a quiet hit that fits any style of gathering.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Bold and crowd-pleasing, Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers add just enough kick to wake up any group. Their balance of heat and crunch makes them unforgettable. They often spark friendly competition over who can handle the spice. These poppers always leave guests asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers