When it comes to hosting gatherings or parties, having a selection of delicious appetizer recipes up your sleeve can make all the difference. Not only do they offer a chance for guests to mingle and socialize while enjoying some tasty treats, but they also provide a great way to break the ice and get the party started on the right foot. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite appetizer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic favorites like bruschetta and spinach and artichoke dip, to more unique options like bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers and crispy zucchini fritters, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal affair, these recipes are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
Elevate your snack game with this classic Italian appetizer, featuring sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crispy bread. Perfect for a quick and easy gathering or as a simple yet impressive starter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of baguette (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the bread slices.
5. Arrange the bread on a baking sheet and toast for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. While the bread is toasting, combine diced tomatoes and chopped basil in a bowl.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Assemble by topping toasted bread slices with tomato-basil mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A classic party favorite that’s sure to please! This creamy spinach and artichoke dip is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of cream cheese with the tanginess of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese
Satisfy your cravings with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the tanginess of cream cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an appetizer for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
A flavorful twist on the classic popper recipe, these bacon-wrapped jalapeños combine spicy and savory flavors for a delightful snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 1/2 pound thick-cut bacon, cut into 12 equal pieces
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Cut off the stems of the jalapeños and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes, leaving the peppers intact.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the 12 peppers.
5. Wrap each stuffed pepper with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Quiches with Goat Cheese
These mini quiches are the perfect appetizer or snack, filled with creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs. They’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into 12 equal squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. In the center of each square, place a tablespoon of goat cheese, a sprinkle of parsley, and a pinch of cheddar cheese.
5. Fold the pastry in half over the filling to form a triangle. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and season with salt and pepper.
7. Place mini quiches on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each component.
3. Brush the balsamic glaze evenly over both sides of the skewers.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is slightly melted and the tomatoes are tender.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Sriracha
Elevate your deviled egg game with the bold flavor of Sriracha! This recipe adds a kick to the classic by incorporating spicy mayonnaise and a dash of chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/8 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
– Chopped chives or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
3. Add the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Mix until smooth.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with chives or paprika for a pop of color.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and chill.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treats that combine the simplicity of garlic bread with the richness of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
4. Brush the garlic mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.
6. Cut into 12-15 bite-sized pieces or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes.
7. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Zucchini Fritters
A delicious summer treat that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner, these crispy zucchini fritters are packed with flavor and texture. Enjoy the combination of tender zucchini, crunchy exterior, and savory seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until the batter is smooth.
3. Gradually add the panko breadcrumbs and mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into hot oil (about 1/4 inch deep). Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per batch (depending on size).
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Sauce
A classic appetizer gets a bold twist with this spicy shrimp cocktail recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup chilled lemon-juice-based cocktail sauce (see below)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Spicy Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp and cocktail sauce.
2. Stir in cayenne pepper and cilantro.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the Spicy Sauce (see below).
Spicy Sauce:
1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Stir until smooth.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is served chilled, perfect for hot summer days or special occasions.
Avocado and Black Bean Salsa
Add a creamy twist to your tacos, chips, or grilled meats with this vibrant salsa recipe. The combination of ripe avocados, tender black beans, and zesty lime juice will transport your taste buds to a sunny day.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado, black beans, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Mini Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze
These bite-sized meatballs are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. The sweet chili glaze adds a tangy and sticky element that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet Chili Glaze (see below)
Sweet Chili Glaze:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the Sweet Chili Glaze by whisking together ketchup, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the Sweet Chili Glaze. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Puff Pastry Cheese Straws
Elevate your snack game with these buttery, cheesy straws made with puff pastry and a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for parties or as a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the cheese to form straws.
6. Place the straws on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
7. Brush with softened butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Calamari with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the crunch of fried squid with the brightness of lemon aioli. Perfect for a quick dinner or party snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound calamari tubes and tentacles
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Fried Calamari:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dredge calamari in flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip in buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Fry calamari in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
This recipe brings together the sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty flavor of quinoa and a blend of savory spices, creating a delightful and nutritious main course. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, onion, garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture and top with olive oil.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Salmon Canapés
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Smoked Salmon Canapés, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12-15 crackers (e.g., water crackers or rice crackers)
– 6 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture onto each cracker, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
4. Top each cracker with a piece of flaked smoked salmon.
5. Place the canapés on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your grill game with this classic Southeast Asian-inspired dish! Juicy chicken skewers are marinated to perfection and served with a rich, nutty peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup peanut oil
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Peanut Sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve with Peanut Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Nachos with Guacamole
Get ready for a flavorful fiesta! This recipe combines crispy tortilla chips, creamy guacamole, and savory nacho toppings for the ultimate snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans, warmed
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken or beef (optional)
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and lightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together avocado, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and salt.
5. Assemble loaded nachos by spreading refried beans over the tortilla chips, followed by diced chicken or beef (if using), and finally, shredded cheese.
6. Top with guacamole and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Loaded Nachos with Guacamole!
Greek Yogurt and Cucumber Dip
This light and tangy dip is perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack any time of the year. With the creamy Greek yogurt, cool cucumber, and hint of garlic, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh cucumber
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dip is ready in a flash.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Greek Yogurt and Cucumber Dip!
Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade
These bite-sized crab cakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party or just a quick snack. Made with fresh lump crab meat and a hint of spice, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with mini crab cakes.
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 delicious appetizer recipes, perfect for every occasion! From classic bruschetta and spinach dip to more adventurous options like bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers and mini quiches with goat cheese, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to add some excitement to your dinner table, these bite-sized treats are sure to satisfy.