98 Appetizer Recipes That Will Please Any Crowd

Party Cheese Bread

You can't go wrong with this cheese bread recipe. The cheesy, butter bread is so simple to make but the taste is sinful. Plus it looks fantastic, and people just flock to it! It's better than the usual garlic bread with pasta, too. —Karen Grant, Tulare, California

Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs

These teriyaki pineapple meatballs appetizer changed so many times because of my family’s suggestions that it eventually became a main course. I think the homemade sauce sets these meatballs apart. —Evette Nowicki, Oak Harbor, Washington

Fruit Charcuterie Board

Who says cheese and sausage get to have all the fun? Make this fruit charcuterie board a party go-to with any that are in season. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

One taste of this outrageously delicious hot spinach artichoke dip and your guests will not stop eating it until it’s gone. The savory blend of artichokes, spinach and Parmesan cheese is positively addictive! It tastes even better if you make it the night before and chill it in the fridge before baking. —Michelle Krzmarzick, Torrance, California

Orange-Glazed Meatballs

I love the sweet orange marmalade paired with the zip of a jalapeno in this sweet-sour glaze. —Bonnie Stallings, Martinsburg, West Virginia

Chicken Parm Sliders

These chicken parm sliders are just the thing for the big game, or the big party, or regular ol' dinner! Whatever the event, a cheesy, saucy handheld sammy is sure to satisfy.

Grilled Tomato-Peach Pizza

This delicious pizza is unique, healthy and easy to make. The fresh flavors make it a perfect appetizer for a summer party. —Scarlett Elrod, Newnan, Georgia

Ham ‘n’ Cheese Biscuit Stacks

These finger sandwiches are filling enough to satisfy hearty appetites. I've served the fun little stacks at every event, including holiday gatherings, showers and tailgate parties. —Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey

Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip

This is a spinoff of a Mexican dip I had once. The original was wicked good, but since I was going through an "I’m-so-over-Mexican-dip" phase, I decided to switch it up. Take it to a party—I'll bet you no one else will bring anything like it! —Mandy Rivers, Lexington, South Carolina

Fried Prosciutto Tortellini

My take on Italian street food, these fried tortellini are crunchy, gooey good. For the sauce, use the best quality tomatoes you can find. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey

Pretzel Bread Bowl with Cheese Dip

Our town is known as Pretzel City—even our local sports teams are known as The Pretzels. I came up with this dish for an annual community recipe contest. People couldn’t believe that the delicious bread had pretzels in the mix! For variety, try using different flavors of pretzels. —Andrea Johnson, Freeport, Illinois

Turkey Sliders

We love how easy these no-bake turkey sliders are to throw together for a party or an easy (and fun!) dinner.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

It is creamy, cheesy and packed with Buffalo hot wing flavors. This easy Buffalo chicken dip recipe is sure to be a party hit.

Pinwheels

Tortilla pinwheels are a crowd-pleasing, classic party food. Plus, the recipe is endlessly versatile!

Olives and Cheese

This elegant marinated olives and cheese platter is a perfect appetizer for any occasion, especially one with an Italian-inspired menu. The arrangement is visually appealing and temptingly delicious, and it can be made entirely ahead of time.

Artichoke Dip

Hot and cheesy artichoke dip is a simple yet delicious appetizer recipe to have on hand. Just mix everything together, spread into a dish and bake!

Almond-Bacon Cheese Crostini

For a change from the usual toasted tomato appetizer, try this baked crostini recipe. If you like, slice the baguette at an angle instead of making a straight cut. —Leondre Hermann, Stuart, Florida

Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Cream-cheese-stuffed cherry tomatoes are a simple yet delicious vegetarian appetizer that's an excellent accompaniment to a party spread of charcuterie and crudités.

Florentine Ciabatta

I came up with this appetizer because of my love for white pizza. I’ve served my ciabatta pizza at many holiday parties, and it’s always a big hit among both children and adults. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut

Party Shrimp

The marinade for this dish makes the shrimp so flavorful, you won't even need a dipping sauce. Even those who claim they don’t like shellfish really dig this appetizer. —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Swedish Meatballs

Whip up a batch of these easy Swedish meatballs for a meal that's all comfort and no fuss!

Cheese Fries

Quick, easy and a surefire hit at your next gameday potluck or family gathering, you need just 20 minutes and six ingredients to whip up a large batch of these cheese fries.

Chicken & Bacon Roll-Ups

My children like these roll-ups so much that they ask for them every day for lunch during the summer. Whenever I have leftover chicken or turkey breast, this is a delicious way to use it up. —Patricia Nieh, Portola Valley, California

Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders

Dive into this comfort food staple: bacon cheeseburger sliders are bursting with flavor, thanks to gooey, melty cheese, loaded burger, and crispy, savory bacon. They're a mini version of your favorite bacon cheeseburger, but better.

German Beer Cheese Spread

We love recipes inspired by our German heritage. This tangy spread is fantastic served alongside everything, including pretzels and pumpernickel or crackers and sausage. Choose your favorite beer—the flavor really comes through. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida

Mediterranean Hummus Nachos

My husband once piled all the Middle Eastern dishes I'd made on top of pita chips. It was delicious and fun, so we've kept doing it! We love this combination with ground lamb, too. I am half Lebanese, so we usually call these Lebanese nachos. Whatever you call them, you can't help but like them! —Gina Fensler, Cincinnati, Ohio

Crispy Sriracha Spring Rolls

While in the Bahamas, friends suggested a restaurant that served amazing chicken spring rolls. When I got home, I created my own version. Such a great appetizer to have waiting in the freezer! —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Pizza Dip

Looking for a hot dip recipe that everyone will love? Cheesy pizza dip is the answer.

Pepperoni Bread

Our contest-winning pepperoni bread recipe begins with frozen bread dough, so there's no need to make your own dough. Simply thaw it, roll it out and stuff it with cheese, pepperoni and other savory delights like olives, mushrooms and pickled peppers.

Spicy Sweet Potato Chips & Cilantro Dip

This irresistible combo could become your new signature snack food. Park the spicy baked chips next to a bowl of the cool, creamy dip and let the gang have at it. What a fantastic twist on traditional chips and dip! —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois

Sausage Cream Cheese Dip

This scrumptious snack will go fast! The sausage cream cheese dip recipe is so easy to make and fits Southwestern flavor to a T. My pot is always scraped clean! —Kaye Christiansen, Freistatt, Missouri

Antipasto Platter

A bold and effortless mix of savory meats, tangy cheese and crisp vegetables, this antipasto platter is the ultimate go-to for an easy and crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ground Beef Taco Dip

Rich, savory ground beef taco dip is easy to make from scratch. Our recipe with meat includes plenty of ideas for variation, from lower-fat options to extra heat. Game on!

Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip

If you like spice, you’ll love this slow-cooker Buffalo chicken dip. It’s super cheesy, full of rich flavor and really has that Buffalo wing taste! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Chicken Pot Stickers

Chicken and mushrooms make up the filling in these pot stickers, a traditional Chinese dumpling. Greasing the steamer rack makes it easier to remove them once they're steamed. —Jacquelynne Stine, Las Vegas, Nevada

Oven-Fried Oysters

I entered this recipe for breaded and baked oysters with a zippy jalapeno mayonnaise in a seafood contest and took first place in the hors d’oeuvres category. These oven-fried oysters make an interesting appetizer for entertaining. —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan

Beer Pretzels

Pretzels and beer come together in these soft beer pretzels that are simple to make.

Sweet ‘n’ Tangy Chicken Wings

I love the convenience of slow-cooker recipes for get-togethers. Start these sweet and sour chicken wings a few hours ahead of time and you'll have fantastic appetizers ready when your guests arrive. —Ida Tuey, South Lyon, Michigan

Brownie Batter Dip

Our brownie batter dip gives you all the flavor and none of the bake time of true brownies. It's perfect for when you're craving brownies but don't want to turn on the oven.

Asian Chicken Wings

These baked Asian chicken wings are tender, juicy and irresistible. They soak up complex flavors from an Asian-inspired marinade made with sweet chili sauce, fish sauce, garlic and Chinese five-spice powder.

Football Fest Empanadas

Classic empanadas from South America are pastries stuffed with beef or chicken, usually fried. That doesn't mean "classic" never changes. Chicken goes well with black beans, corn and jalapenos in this baked version with a southwestern spin. —Jane McMillan, Dania Beach, Florida

Shrimp Cocktail

During the ’60s, shrimp cocktail was one of the most popular party foods around. And it is still a crowd favorite. It’s the one appetizer that I serve for every special occasion as well as for munchie meals. —Peggy Allen, Pasadena, California

Celebration Cheese Balls

A handful of simple ingredients that go together in minutes, three fun flavorful options…these creamy cheese balls from our Test Kitchen are a darling, do-ahead delight for busy holiday hostesses! Why not whip up several batches? —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Spicy, flavorful and—best of all—easy to make. Buffalo chicken meatballs will be a hit at any party.

Mini Corn Muffins with Spicy Cheddar Filling

I’m an Iowa gardener and I like to feature sweet corn in my recipes. These cute, easy-to-eat bites are a fun change from the usual appetizers. —Margaret Blair, Lorimor, Iowa

Homemade Guacamole

I always judge a Tex-Mex restaurant by its guacamole. And although it's simple to prepare, it can go wrong oh, so easily. I've spent many years perfecting mine, to the point where I think it's better than most restaurants. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Cream Cheese Ham Roll-Ups

Green onions and ripe olives give lively flavor to these bite-size appetizers from Kathleen Green of Republic, Missouri. “They’re quick to assemble and can be made the day before they’re needed,” she notes. “They’re very popular with my friends and family.”

Loaded Baked Potato Dip

I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota

Thyme-Sea Salt Crackers

These homemade crackers are decidedly light and crispy. An addictive snack on their own, they also pair well with a sharp white cheddar. —Jessica Wirth, Charlotte, North Carolina

Slow-Cooked Cranberry Hot Wings

Cranberry wings remind me of all the wonderful celebrations and parties we've had through the years. My daughter’s friends can’t get enough of these wings. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut

Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Shrimp

Blue cheese, bacon and basil pack big flavor into a couple of bites. To save time, you can assemble the skewers the night before and then serve them hot from the broiler on the day. —Vivi Taylor, Middleburg, Florida

Mini Teriyaki Turkey Sandwiches

Preparing the pulled turkey in a delicious teriyaki sauce for these snack-size sandwiches is a breeze using a slow cooker. Serving them on lightly-toasted sweet dinner rolls is perfection made easy.—Amanda Hoop, Seaman, Ohio

Crispy Potato Skins

The creamy topping on these is so delicious. They're perfect for snacking on while watching football games.

Sesame Herb Pull-Apart Bread

The beauty of this bread is that all the prep work is done a day ahead. The savory herbs make it irresistible. —Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma

Greek Pita Spread

I first tried this at a family gathering and was blown away! I have since made it for my co-workers, and they just love it. I've gotten many requests for the recipe. —Joyce Benninger, Owen Sound, Ontario

Pizza Pinwheels

Stuff these pizza pinwheels with all your favorite toppings. And don't forget the dipping sauce!

Antipasto Bake

Stuffed with savory meats and cheeses, these hearty antipasto squares would satisfy an entire offensive line! The dish comes together quickly and bakes in under an hour, making it the perfect potluck bring-along. Introducing the all-stars in this ooey gooey appetizer: salami, Swiss, pepperoni, Colby-Monterey Jack, prosciutto and provolone. A crisp topping finishes it off. —Brea Barclay, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are a big hit at any gathering, so be sure to make lots. The caramelized sugar coating of this sweet and spicy take on the classic finger food balances their heat, so even guests with timid palates can enjoy them.

Iowa Ham Balls

This is a special recipe my whole family likes. Every time they visit and I make ham balls, they’re all smiles. When I take this to potluck meals, I’m always asked to share the recipe. It’s very appropriate for my region, too, since Iowa farmers raise prize-winning pigs and cattle. —Helen Koehler, Liscomb, Iowa

Chicken Puffs

Surprise your party guests with a plate of chicken puffs. Stuff crescent rolls with cream cheese and chicken, then bake them until they're puffed, golden and flaky.

Appetizer Blue Cheese Logs

Three kinds of cheese and some curry powder make this cheese log a little more lively than most. Swipe it on your favorite cracker with a drizzle of honey for a sensational snack. —Ethel Johnson, North Saanich, British Columbia

Mother Lode Pretzels

I brought these savory-sweet pretzels to a family gathering, and they disappeared from the dessert tray before dessert was even served! My family raves about how awesome they are. —Carrie Bennett, Madison, Wisconsin

Dinner Poppers

I could eat jalapeno poppers all day long, but who wants to say they had seven stuffed peppers for dinner? For this meal-in-one, I use poblanos for my husband and son, and hotter peppers for my daughter and me. —Sherri Jerzyk, Tucson, Arizona

Mushroom Palmiers

I found this recipe while working at a small-town museum in West Texas. It was the appetizer for a fundraiser a long, long time ago, and it’s still a huge hit at parties. Frozen puff pastry helps make it easy and impressive. The palmiers also freeze well. —Judy Lock, Panhandle, Texas

Spicy Shrimp Salsa

Radishes add a wonderful crunch to this colorful salsa that is also superb over grilled fish. There's just enough jalapeno to give flavor without much of the heat. —Mary Beth Relyea, Canastota, New York

BLT Dip

This BLT dip has you covered when you need an appetizer that’s sure to please.

Cucumber Canapes

I always get requests for the recipe for these canapes whenever I serve them. They're delicate finger sandwiches with a creamy herb spread and festive red and green garnishes. —Nadine Whittaker, South Plymouth, Massachusetts

Sweet-and-Sour Chicken Wings

These slow cooker wings are a fun appetizer for gatherings. I sometimes like to serve the saucy chicken over rice as a main dish. Either way you do it, these Asian-inspired wings will be a hit! —June Eberhardt, Marysville, California

Air-Fried Pickles

These air-fried pickles are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Zesty, salty and perfectly seasoned, they make a great snack for fish fries, burger nights and game-day parties.

Mini Zucchini Pizzas

Looking for low carb? This simple snack recipe is a fantastic way to satisfy your pizza cravings while skipping the usual carb-filled crust. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

One-Bite Tamales

Clever little meatballs deliver the flavor and rich sauce of a traditional tamale in a bite-sized portion. They’re a delightfully different addition to a holiday spread. —Dolores Jaycox, Gretna, Louisiana

Tomato Galette

I found beautiful heirloom tomatoes and had to show them off. In this easy galette, the tomatoes are tangy and the crust is beyond buttery. —Jessica Chang, Playa Vista, California

Chipotle Ham ‘n’ Cheese Dip

If you enjoy throwing dinner parties for friends, you can't beat a convenient slow-cooker recipe like this one. Who wants to be stuck in the kitchen? Just set the slow cooker on low and have fun visiting with guests. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri

Roasted Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Try these savory bites for a kickin' appetizer that's tasty and healthy, too! —Emily Tyra, Traverse City, Michigan

Quentin’s Peach-Bourbon Wings

My father and husband love bourbon flavor, so I add it to tangy wings baked in peach preserves. Stand back and watch these wings fly. —Christine Winston, Richmond, Virginia

Toasted Ravioli

While visiting a friend who had just moved to St. Louis, Missouri, I tried toasted ravioli at almost every restaurant! When I got home, I had to try to replicate them, and this recipe comes pretty close. —Cristina Carrera, Kenosha, Wisconsin

Blue Cheese Potato Chips

Game day calls for something bold. I top potato chips with tomatoes, bacon and tangy blue cheese. I make two big pans, and they always disappear. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin

Pancetta, Pear & Pecan Puffs

I was recently at a wedding reception where the menu was all small bites. Here’s my rendition of the pear pastries they served. They're the perfect combo of savory and sweet. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois

Fresh Herb Vegetable Dip

I entertain a lot and am always looking for an easy crowd pleaser. If it's a dish in which I can use fresh ingredients from my herb and vegetable garden, it's even better! I serve this dip in individual servings for large parties so each person has their own cup. —Isabel Minunni, Poughkeepsie, New York

Cranberry Chicken Salad

The tart, tangy bite of cranberry and crisp, refreshing crunch of celery make this cranberry chicken salad a total winner. Make it ahead for an easy, protein-packed meal that'll keep your whole family happy.

Mango Avocado Salsa

Mango avocado salsa takes your favorite chip dip and elevates it, thanks to the addition of sweet, tropical mango. You can double or quadruple this recipe to feed a crowd.

Australian Sausage Rolls

Keep reading for how to make authentic Australian sausage rolls, which make for a fantastic appetizer for your next dinner party.

Smoked Salmon Cheese Spread

Pretzels, chips and veggies all taste awesome with this creamy blend of salmon, cheese and herbs. Thanks to a food processor, it’s always ready in a hurry. —Jill Campbell, Huntsville, Texas

Buffalo Chicken Potato Skins

Take two popular restaurant nibbles, put them together and you’ll have an unforgettable appetizer for your next holiday get-together. —Bridget O’Connor, Round Lake Beach, Illinois

Garlic Bread Mini Muffins

These little garlic bread bites make a terrific addition to any buffet spread. We make sure to serve them warm. —Kathy Yarosh, Apopka, Florida

Strawberry Salsa

This strawberry salsa is versatile, fresh-tasting and colorful. Salsa made with strawberries might be unexpected, but it's excellent over grilled chicken or as a dip with corn chips.

Pastrami Roll-Ups

For a book club event, I created pastrami roll-ups with cream cheese and a pickle. Those tasty bites quickly pulled a disappearing act. —Merritt Heinrich, Oswego, Illinois

Hot Collards and Artichoke Dip

Anyone can pull off spinach and artichoke dip—so brighten it up using collard greens for a southern twist. Serve this dish with warm garlic naan or tortilla chips. —Billie Williams-Henderson, Bowie, Maryland

Ravioli Appetizer Pops

Ravioli on a stick is a tasty appetizer everyone talks about. They’re simple and fun to make and eat. Use packaged dipping sauces, or make your own. Get my recipes on my blog, thehopelesshousewife.com. —Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona

Mini Mac & Cheese Dogs

We wanted to get creative with hot dogs, so we made a mac-and-cheesy one. Pile on the extra cheese, relish and even bacon. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland

Onion Beef au Jus

Garlic, onions, soy sauce and onion soup mix flavor the tender beef in savory hot sandwiches that are served with a tasty rich broth for dipping. The seasoned beef makes delicious cold sandwiches too. —Marilyn Brown, West Union, Iowa

Spinach Dip

Need a dip for a party or for game day? Spinach dip is the answer, because nothing beats a classic.

Ranch Snack Mix

This is a wonderful fast-to-fix munchie. The recipe makes tons and doesn't involve any cooking. It's a cinch to package in individual snack bags, it keeps its crunch and it's a savory alternative to the cakes and pies usually offered at bake sales. —Linda Murphy, Pulaski, Wisconsin

Waffle Fry Nachos

My husband and two grown sons really enjoy these fun nachos—they can devour a platter of them in no time. They're also fun to make when friends come over. —Debra Morgan, Idaho Falls, Idaho

Tomato and Corn Cheesy Pastry Bites

Local veggies and herbs have a magical knack for inspiring me to cook. After my CSA box arrived, I used the fresh ingredients to create this adorable appetizer. —Kristen Heigl, Staten Island, New York

Air-Fryer Wasabi Crab Cakes

With wasabi in both the crab cakes and the dipping sauce, this festive appetizer brings its own heat to the holiday party. —Marie Rizzio, Interlochen, Michigan

Cornbread Pizza Wheels

This hearty, colorful snack looks like you spent a lot of time, but it's simple to make. —Patrick Lucas, Cochran, Georgia

Party Franks

These tiny, tangy appetizers have broad appeal. I prepare them often for holiday gatherings, weddings and family reunions. They're convenient to serve at parties since the sauce can be made ahead and then reheated with the franks before serving. —Lucille Howell, Portland, Oregon