83 Thanksgiving Appetizers for Your Holiday Spread

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Deviled Eggs

With your ultimate Thanksgiving dinner coming later in the day, keeping appetizers light and poppable is a good way to go. For this buffet-friendly bite, deviled eggs are classically flavored with paprika and dill.

“Herbs lend amazing flavor to these deviled eggs, which truly are the best you can make! The recipe includes tasty variations that feature bacon, chipotle peppers and crab.” —Recipe Contributors Jesse & Anne Foust, Bluefield, West Virginia

Sausage Cheese Puffs Recipe photo by Christine Ma for Taste of Home

Sausage Cheese Puffs

You only need three ingredients and less than 30 minutes for these cheesy, golden morsels. The tasty bite-size puffs are made with any kind of sausage you like, vegan included, but hot Italian links add a nice kick. Serve with your favorite jam, jelly or maple syrup, and they’ll disappear in no time.

People are always surprised when I tell them there are only four ingredients in these tasty bite-sized puffs. Cheesy and spicy, the golden morsels are a fun novelty at a breakfast or brunch, and they also make yummy party appetizers. —Recipe contributor Della Moore, Troy, New York

Pomegranate Guacamole with Feta Cheese Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Pomegranate Guacamole with Feta Cheese

Pops of pomegranate and feta cheese add festive flair to guacamole. Serve with crackers, fresh vegetables or chips.

Want to add a little festive flair to your bowl of guac? Top it off with chunks of feta and fresh pomegranate seeds. Since the cheese is so briny, we recommend cutting back on the amount of salt you use in the guacamole recipe, or opting for reduced-sodium tortilla chips. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Swiss Cheese Bread Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Swiss Cheese Bread

This 6-ingredient make-ahead bread is crispy on the outside but soft and pillowy on the inside. The buttery, cheesy appetizer can be molded to the size of your party. If it’s a smaller gathering, just cut the bread in half.

This bread will receive rave reviews, whether you serve it as an appetizer or with a meal. For real convenience, you can make it ahead of time and freeze it! —Recipe contributor Karla Boice, Mahtomedi, Minnesota

ELLIE CROWLEY FOR TASTE OF HOME

Beer Cheese Dip

Smooth, velvety and filled with any kind of beer you love, it’s the perfect partner to crackers, crisps or pretzel bites.

You can use any kind of beer for this recipe. For a lighter beer flavor, go with lager. If you want the beer flavor to be more pronounced, try an ale or wheat beer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

Swapping in pumpkin boosts this delicious make-ahead cheese ball to must-try status. It adds a hint of autumn color and flavor, making it the perfect thing to add to a quick Thanksgiving dinner menu.

No one will guess that this make-ahead spread has pumpkin in it, but that subtle ingredient lends harvest color and added nutrition. —Recipe contributor Linnea Rein, Topeka, Kansas

Blini Recipe Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Blini Recipe

These small savory buckwheat pancakes beg for all your favorite ingredients, from caviar—if you’re feeling fancy—to pickled veggies. Make the blinis a day in advance and heat them just before serving. Want to get ahead of the game? Freeze them!

Elevate your appetizer game with bite-sized blinis. These small savory pancakes can get topped with all your favorite ingredients—from caviar to pickled veggies, the options are endless. —Recipe contributor Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The musical "Waitress"

Candied Walnuts

Make these a day or two ahead of time so you can focus on other dishes on the big day. These candied walnuts nicely complement any holiday cheese board, or make salads sing (like in this apple and walnut salad). Don’t like walnuts? Swap in another nut, such as pecans.

Turn ordinary walnuts into a taste sensation with this simple recipe that’s prepared on the stovetop. With plenty of brown sugar and a hint of pepper, the crunchy candied nuts are a nice complement to a fruit and cheese tray. But they can stand on their own as well, because they’re so munchable! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Fig Balsamic Walnut Flatbread Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Fig Balsamic Walnut Flatbread

Use frozen pizza dough for this quick-fix recipe, and top it with the sweet and savory combination of goat cheese, fig preserves, balsamic glaze and walnuts. Double the recipe for bigger gatherings—it goes fast!

With sweet figs, tangy balsamic and rich goat cheese, this is one of my favorite flatbread recipes. It’s also delicious with arugula and caramelized onions. I reach for it often when I host a special event or have friends over for dinner. You can use any store-bought flatbread or pizza dough. —Recipe contributor Rebekah Ranes, Sedona, Arizona

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Creamy Pumpkin Hummus

For all the added harvest color, the pumpkin in this creamy hummus isn’t at all overpowering. Dress it up with roasted pumpkin seeds, pomegranate seeds or fried sage leaves for the Thanksgiving appetizer table.

I love to serve this pumpkin hummus with sliced apples, pears and pita chips. —Recipe contributor James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin

Taste of Home

Parmesan Mushroom Tartlets

These easy tartlets loaded with a cheesy mushroom filling look beautiful on any holiday table. Thanks to refrigerated crescent roll dough, they come together in a snap.

I think my mushroom tartlets are best warm from the oven with a sprinkling of green onion. —Recipe contributor Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota

Taste of Home

Pumpkin Pinwheels

These devilishly delicious pinwheels are the perfect ode to fall. Cream cheese, mozzarella and roasted red peppers provide the perfect amount of heat and creaminess.

Cream cheese, mozzarella and roasted red peppers make these pumpkin-shaped pinwheels devilishly delicious. They were a hit at my last Halloween party. —Recipe contributor Anndrea Bailey, Huntington Beach, California

Taste of Home

Sausage Wonton Cups

Stuffed with sausage and cheese, these tasty snacks disappear fast. Wonton wrappers make perfect golden cups to hold the savory filling.

Here’s a tasty hot appetizer for all those parties that feature fun finger foods. I’ve made this recipe several times, and these bites always disappear so fast. It’s really easy. —Recipe contributor Shirley Van Allen, High Point, North Carolina

Taste of Home

Cranberry and Bacon Swiss Cheese Dip

Savory and rich, this make-ahead dip can easily go from the oven to the table. The dried cranberries are like little jewels hidden in a delicious cheesy, bacon-y landscape. Serve thin, crunchy slices of toasted bread alongside it for an indulgent appetizer.

This warm, rich and creamy Swiss cheese dip is guaranteed to please family and friends alike. Served with thin, crunchy slices of French bread, it makes the perfect appetizer—especially since you can prepare it ahead, put in the fridge, and then bake just before you want to serve it. —Recipe contributor Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota

Taste of Home

Gruyere and Crab Palmiers

These sophisticated savory pastries look impressive but are so easy to put together. With a good store-bought puff pastry and a few other ingredients, you’ll have superstar hors d’oeuvres to pass around in no time. Pancetta pairs well with the fresh crab meat and gruyere filling, but you can do anything, from pesto and ham to all cheese. You can even make these palmiers ahead of time and freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

I keep these little bursts of flavor in my freezer so they can be pulled out and popped into the oven at a moment’s notice. Crab, pancetta and Gruyere make an elegant appetizer, and you can make your own variations of the filling. Try chicken and pesto, or a Mediterranean version with spinach and feta. —Recipe contributor Grace Voltolina, Westport, Connecticut

Cheesy Ranch Spinach Puffs Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Cheesy Ranch Spinach Puffs

Ranch dressing, frozen spinach, cornbread mix and a few other ingredients are all you need for these puffy, cheese bites. Cook in mini muffin tins for tasty poppable morsels for your next potluck or party.

A coworker gave me this recipe 30 years ago. I made a few changes to suit my family’s tastes. These hot cheese and spinach puffs are tasty and always well-received! They are super convenient since you can make them in advance and bake them later. —Recipe contributor Kristine Chayes, Smithtown, New York

TASTE OF HOME

Apricot-Glazed Bacon Spirals

This 5-ingredient appetizer has all the best fruity and smoky flavors rolled into one delightful spiral. The sweet and salty bites are prepped in a cinch and are a great introduction to a hearty dinner.

Here’s a real crowd-pleaser for an appetizer table or brunch buffet. A whole piece of crispy bacon is rolled into each spiral. It’s so good with the apricot preserves, which make it a sweet-and-salty treat. —Recipe contributor Kellie Mulleavy, Lambertville, Michigan

Taste of Home

Tuscan Truffles

For holiday potlucks, these appetizer truffles are the perfect creamy go-to. They’re made with prosciutto, figs and toasted pine nuts for a creative combination of ingredients.

I make these appetizers with prosciutto, figs and toasted pine nuts. Mascarpone and goat cheese make them melt-in-your-mouth creamy. —Recipe contributor Roxanne Chan, Albany, California

ERIC KLEINBERG FOR TASTE OF HOME

Caprese Salad Kabobs

Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. They’re bright and elegant looking but most importantly, they’re not so heavy that you lose sight of the main course. The assembly is so easy that kids can help put them together.

In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Recipe contributor Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California

Taste of Home

Bacon Cream Cheese Pinwheels

A crescent roll, bacon and cream cheese makes for an irresistible appetizer. The easy rolls are so versatile that you can try it with different flavored cream cheeses or even different meats.

It’s hard to resist a crescent roll, bacon and cream cheese in one bite! Kids, friends—everyone will scarf down these cream cheese pinwheels. Now I bake a double batch whenever we have a get-together. —Recipe contributor Krista Munson, Sharpsburg, Kentucky

Taste of Home

Brie with Almonds

Talk about an effortless Thanksgiving appetizer. This nut-topped baked cheese is perfectly elegant and comes together in a snap. Keep it simple and serve it directly in a cast-iron skillet or other decorative baking dish.

This nut-topped cheese is elegant and impressive for holiday occasions. No one will guess that the recipe is actually a snap to prepare. —Recipe contributor Mildred Aydt, Chanhassen, Minnesota

Spinach Dip-Stuffed Mushrooms

This classy combination of spinach dip and mushrooms creates a creamy, savory on-the-go dish. The appetizers fit neatly into muffin tins or deviled egg trays for traveling.

I use a melon baller to hollow out the mushroom caps and make them easier to stuff. —Recipe contributor Ashley Pierce, Brantford, Ontario

DAN ROBERTS FOR TASTE OF HOME

Caramel Pumpkin Dip

Who said appetizers can’t be sweet? Cream cheese and sour cream paired with caramel sauce and pumpkin—it’s like a holiday bonanza in a bowl. Serve vanilla wafers, graham crackers, and slices of apples and pears with this creamy pumpkin dip for a fun twist on finger food.

Served with vanilla wafers, graham cracker sticks or even apple slices, this cool, creamy dip from our home economists makes a special autumn snack. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Taste of Home

Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese Shrimp

Pesto Twists Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Pesto Twists

Store-bought puff pastry and pesto create the ultimate holiday appetizer. Add cheese, red pepper flakes or other embellishments to make these savory twists your own.

Use pesto made straight from your garden if you make these in the summer or purchase it prepared from the grocery store to fill these easy appetizers. —Recipe contributor Jaye Beeler, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Taste of Home

Pine Nut and Basil Guacamole

For an alternative to traditional guacamole, add pine nuts and fresh basil for texture and extra herbal notes. Crostini, fresh vegetables and, of course, crisp tortilla chips are the best accompaniments.

For a pesto-inspired guac, top it off with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil ribbons. You can also substitute the traditional lime for lemon juice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Caramel Havarti Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Caramel Havarti

Turning a hunk of Havarti cheese into a sweet-savory appetizer is simply brilliant. With pecans, caramel topping and apples, this clever and simple dish is a delightful change of pace for any party.

Havarti is a wonderful cheese. This elegant yet simple recipe—with pecans, caramel topping and tart apples—makes it even better. —Recipe contributor Tia Thomas, Mountain City, Tennessee

Taste of Home

Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket

What would a celebration be without pigs in a blanket? Wrap smoked sausages with a slice of tart apple and Gouda cheese in buttery pastry for a creative variation on the party classic. The only way to make these better is to serve with a honey mustard dipping sauce.

For New Year’s, I used to make pigs in a blanket with beef and cheddar. But now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration. —Recipe contributor Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin

MARK DERSE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Butter Board

Serve a butter board at your next party, and you’ll be invited to all the other parties. Smear heavily seasoned butter on a serving board, add thick slices of bread and you have an interactive appetizer everyone will be talking about until the next holiday.

Bread meets spiced, herby, creamy butter in this butter board. The latest appetizer trend is so easy to prepare. —Recipe contributor Joan Hallford, Fort Worth, Texas

Taste of Home

Pickled Mushrooms with Garlic

Easy to prepare in advance, these pickled mushrooms are a delicious addition to any relish tray. Because they’re pickled right in the jar or container, they’re perfect for transporting to potlucks. Don’t stop at mushrooms: You can quick pickle everything from apples to radishes, eggs and more.

I’m always asked to bring these tempting tidbits to holiday gatherings. Easy to make ahead and transport, they’re something to celebrate on a festive relish tray. —Recipe contributor Joyce Anderson, Chico, California

Taste of Home

So Very Berry Brie

You’re already making a slew of Thanksgiving sides, so keep the appetizers as easy as can be. This baked brie topped with blackberries, blueberries and strawberries (frozen is fine!) takes little time in the oven and looks like a celebration on the table.

I needed to make something quick for a wine and cheese party, and had a bounty of berries on hand. My creation went great with all the wines and looked so much more impressive than the other plain cheeses! —Recipe contributor Kristin Larson-Jantzi, Newton, Kansas

Savory Cucumber Sandwiches Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Savory Cucumber Sandwiches

One way to balance this food-filled holiday is to serve refreshing Thanksgiving appetizers for snacking before the main event. The surprise ingredient here is Italian salad dressing, which adds just enough flavor and acid to the cream cheese spread. Thinly sliced cucumber and fresh dill make picture-perfect toppings.

Italian salad dressing easily flavors this simple snack. You can also omit the bread and serve the spread as a dip with cucumbers or other veggies. —Recipe contributor Carol Henderson, Chagrin Falls, Ohio

Taste of Home

Sweet Potato Crostini

This party-time appetizer riffs on one of our favorite vintage Thanksgiving recipes. The handheld version has all your favorites: Sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, pecans, and tiny marshmallows that get nice and toasty on top.

For party time, I turn this sweet potato side dish into an easy Thanksgiving appetizer by serving it on slices of a French baguette. —Recipe contributor Steve Westphal, Wind Lake, Wisconsin

Cinnamon Toasted Almonds Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Cinnamon Toasted Almonds

If you love cinnamon roasted almonds at the state fair, you’ll love how easy they are to make at home. Tossed with vanilla, cinnamon and brown sugar, the crunchy caramel-sweet snack tastes great on its own or served on a fruit and cheese board.

Crunchy cinnamon almonds are a spectacular treat to take to a party or gathering. They taste just like the almonds you get at the county fair. —Recipe contributor Janice Thompson, Stacy, Minnesota

Taste of Home

Crab Crescent Triangles

These baked bundles are stuffed with a creamy, cheesy crab filling that’s reminiscent of crab dip in bite-size packets. The best part: They bake in only 10 minutes, leaving plenty of time for visiting with guests before dinner.

When friends who love crab were planning a party, I created this recipe just for them. These comforting baked bundles wrap up a cheesy seafood filling in convenient crescent roll dough. —Recipe contributor Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

This ultimate party dip requires very little prep—just blend cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, mayo and other seasonings together—and bakes to a savory, creamy dip. You might need to make backup: This disappears fast.

One taste of this outrageously delicious 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. —Recipe contributor Michelle Krzmarzick, Redondo Beach, California

Taste of Home

Party Cheese Bread

Taste of Home

Cherry Tomato Bites

These one-bite wonders might be small but they’re big on flavor. Brightly colored cherry tomatoes filled with a cheesy bacon filling look and feel festive. Use round cherry tomatoes instead of oblong shapes—they’ll be easier to fill and balance upright.

Cherry tomatoes may be small, but these are full of amazing flavor. Plus, they add color to any table. —Recipe contributor Rev. David Bostedt, Zephyrhills, Florida

Taste of Home

Warm Feta Cheese Dip

Cream cheese, feta, basil and sweet peppers make for a creamy and simple appetizer. With so few ingredients, you’ll be surprised at the power behind the punch of flavor. You can serve it with bread or your favorite chips.

We’re big on appetizers, so this dip is a mashup of our favorite tastes, like cream cheese, feta, basil and sweet peppers. Serve with bread or chips. —Recipe contributor Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Pressure-Cooker Caponata Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Pressure-Cooker Caponata

One thing to love about this eggplant dip is that it takes only three minutes in a pressure cooker. The other is that it gets better as it stands, especially at room temperature. When you have an entire Thanksgiving meal to prepare and a household of guests, it’s a great go-to. Use any leftovers on scrambled eggs or sandwiches after the holiday.

This Italian eggplant dip preps quickly and actually gets better as it stands. Serve it warm or at room temperature. Try adding a little leftover caponata to scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast. —Recipe contributor Nancy Beckman, Helena, Montana

Taste of Home

Roasted Beetroot and Garlic Hummus

Roasted beets add wonderful color to traditional hummus. Served with fresh veggies and crisp crackers, this bright dip adds festive flair to any holiday table. It’s even good on a leftover turkey sandwich.

This tasty beetroot hummus is the prettiest pink snack I’ve ever seen. The healthy recipe is handy to make in large batches and keep in the fridge for lunches and snacks throughout the week. —Recipe contributor Elizabeth Worndl, Toronto, Ontario

Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Cranberry Brie Pecan Pinwheels

If you want your kitchen to smell even more amazing on Thanksgiving day, this twist on baked brie combines all the best elements of the classic appetizer, with warm gooey cheese, sweet fruit and toasted nuts wrapped in a buttery puff pastry. Once these bites are baked to a golden brown, your guests will gobble them up.

This recipe is a twist on baked Brie. My family always requests these during the holidays. They are delicious and make the kitchen smell amazing! —Recipe contributor Jacquie Franklin, Hot Springs, Montana

Best Ever Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Best Ever Stuffed Mushrooms

Calling a recipe the “best ever” is a tough title to live up to, but these easy stuffed mushrooms do. Filled with a creamy and cheesy pork sausage mixture, the bread crumb-topped appetizer will quickly become a staple at your holiday dinners.

At party time, I bring out a platter of my easy stuffed mushrooms. I like to make mine with reduced-fat sausage, but you can use regular for an indulgent treat. —Recipe contributor Debby Beard, Eagle, Colorado

Party Shrimp

A sweet and savory marinade makes these shrimp so good, they won’t need a dipping sauce. After a quick swim in Italian herbs, garlic, lemon juice and brown sugar, broil the shrimp for a few minutes and send directly to the appetizer table.

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. —Recipe contributor Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Empanadas Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Sun-Dried Tomato Goat Cheese Empanadas

Dinner guests will think you worked for hours making these empanadas, but in reality it’s just a few ingredients tucked inside pockets made out of refrigerated pie crust. Baked to a golden brown, they’re simple, taste great and are oh-so-satisfying. Make extra because they’ll go fast.

I created this appetizer because I entertain a lot and wanted something simple but special. People like these empanadas so much! I always make extra. —Recipe contributor Lynn Scully, Rancho Santa Fe, California

SUZAN NAJJAR FOR TASTE OF HOME

Broccoli & Chive Stuffed Mini Peppers

This crunchy appetizer is a wonderful way to present your veggies. The creamy and colorful snack can be made for daily use or spruced up for a holiday potluck. The red, orange and yellow peppers perfectly match the fall color palette (and will hopefully satisfy your palate as well).

There’s plenty of both crunch and cream in these party appetizers. Fresh chives help them really stand out. —Recipe contributor Jean McKenzie, Vancouver, Washington

Taste of Home

Baked Crab Dip

You can’t beat a bread bowl for a beautiful and delicious centerpiece to any Thanksgiving appetizer spread. Prepare the dip and fill the bowls in advance, refrigerate and simply pull out 30 minutes before baking. Use the extra bread for dipping along with crisp vegetables, crackers or bread sticks.

We enjoyed this exquisite crab dip at my grandson’s wedding reception. It looks fancy but is easy to make. You can even fill the bread bowl early in the day and chill it until serving. Just remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. —Recipe contributor Marie Shelley, Exeter, Missouri

Garlic Tomato Bruschetta Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Garlic Tomato Bruschetta

This no-fuss starter combines juicy tomatoes tossed with fresh basil, garlic and the best olive oil you can get a hold of, all heaped on top of gorgeously toasted bread. Use different colored tomatoes for a party-ready twist.

I drew inspiration from my grandma’s recipe for this garden-fresh bruschetta. The crisp bread and tomato goodness make a great party appetizer, but the dish also works alongside your favorite Italian entree. —Recipe contributor Jean Franzoni, Rutland, Vermont

Christmas Meatballs Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Christmas Meatballs

Taste of Home

Tomato Apple Chutney

Apple, raisins, curry, jalapeno and allspice are just a few things that make this chutney perfect for the fall. Both sweet and savory, it’s a great addition to cheese platters, or serve it with crunchy pita chips.

During the fall and winter, I love to make different kinds of chutney to give as hostess gifts. Cook this chutney in a slow cooker, and you don’t have to fuss with it until you are ready to serve it. —Recipe contributor Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

Asparagus Wraps

Asparagus spears wrapped in flaky (refrigerated!) pastry is good enough, but add butter, feta cheese and prosciutto to the party, and you have a finger-food everyone will love.

Asparagus makes lovely finger food, especially wrapped in pastry and tasty filling. Easily assembled, it’s perfect for weeknight noshing or something a little fancier for entertaining. —Recipe contributor Linda Hall, Evington, Virginia

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread Recipe photo by Kristina Vanni for Taste of Home

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

Taking only 10 minutes to make from start to finish, this super-easy cheese spread is merry and bright. Thanks to a hint of sweetness, adults and kids alike love it. Serve it with rice crackers, crostini or sliced French bread.

This festive dip is a snap to make, taking only 10 minutes from start to finish. Thanks to its hint of sweetness, both kids and adults will gobble it up. —Recipe contributor Frankie Robinson, Lockhart, Texas

Ravioli Appetizer Pops Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ravioli Appetizer Pops

Ravioli on a stick is a great conversation starter. It satisfies a pasta craving you didn’t know you had. Use packaged dipping sauces or make your own if you have time.

This appetizer is simple and fun to make and eat. Use packaged dipping sauces, or make your own. —Recipe contributor Erika Monroe-Williams, Scottsdale, Arizona

Smashed Olives Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Smashed Olives

Add a global spin to your Thanksgiving appetizer spread with these Spanish-inspired olives. Crushed green and black olives marinated with citrus and herbs are fabulous alongside cheeses or on a charcuterie board. Save the flavored olive oil for a chicken or shrimp marinade later.

My best friend and I came up with this recipe to bring back the wonderful tastes of Spain with us. When you are finished with the olives, use the flavored olive oil for a chicken or shrimp marinade. —Recipe contributor Tiffani Warner, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas

Taste of Home

Nutty Stuffed Mushrooms

Filled with basil, Parmesan cheese and crunchy pecans, roasted mushroom caps become savory, umami-filled flavor bombs. They’re easy to prepare and look great with other canapes, like stuffed tomatoes.

Basil, Parmesan cheese and mushroom blend together well, while buttery pecans give these treats a surprising crunch. Our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren always ask for them! —Recipe contributor Mildred Eldred, Union City, Michigan

Taste of Home

Bacon Cheddar Potato Skins

Potato skins make a perfect party snack. Set out the best toppings, including sour cream and diced green onions, and let your guests create their favorite version.

Both crisp and hearty, this restaurant-quality snack is one that my family requests often. —Recipe contributor Trish Perrin, Keizer, Oregon

Marinated Mozzarella Recipe photo by Julia Hartbeck for Taste of Home

Marinated Mozzarella

Put these cheese cubes out with toothpicks for an immediate snack. A quick marinade turns everyday mozzarella into a festive party treat, and because it’s so easy and takes minutes to prepare, you’ll have more time to focus on the rest of the Thanksgiving meal prep.

I always come home with an empty container when I bring this dish to a party. It can be made ahead to free up time later. I serve it with pretty frilled toothpicks for a festive look. —Recipe contributor Peggy Cairo, Kenosha, Wisconsin

DAN ROBERTS FOR TASTE OF HOME

Butternut Thyme Tartlets

This light and crunchy appetizer is filled with the ultimate fall flavors. Make the creamy butternut squash and goat cheese filling a few days early, then fill the pre-made phyllo cups right before guests arrive.

A great teaser for what’s to come, this light and crunchy appetizer is filled with my favorite late-fall flavors. Make the creamy filling a few days early, then fill the phyllo cups right before guests arrive. —Recipe contributor Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois

Jim Wieland For Taste of Home

Fried Prosciutto Tortellini

These fried tortellini are crunchy, gooey goodness. The fresh tomato sauce really elevates the dish to the next level. If you don’t have access to prosciutto tortellini, cheese tortellini does the trick!

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

Taste of Home

Dilly Cheese Ball

Spiked with dill pickles and rolled in fresh parsley, this cheese ball is a showstopper but so simple to make. Set it out with your favorite crackers and other Thanksgiving appetizers, and watch it get devoured in no time.

My whole family devours this herby cheese spread—even my son, the chef. Serve it with your favorite crackers. —Recipe contributor Jane Vince, London, Ontario

Taste of Home

Mushroom Bacon Bites

Three ingredients—mushrooms, bacon and barbecue sauce—are all you need for the perfect savory snack. Use the grill for that distinctive charred flavor, but popping them in the oven works too.

This is the perfect appetizer for most any occasion. The tasty bites are easy to assemble and brush with prepared barbecue sauce. When we have a big cookout, they’re always a hit…but they make a nice little “extra” for a family dinner, too. —Recipe contributor Gina Roesner, Ashland, Missouri

Taste of Home

Holiday Salsa

A sweet and spicy cranberry salsa transforms an ordinary brick of cream cheese (or goat cheese) into a holiday appetizer that explodes with flavor. The colors are vibrant and festive. Set it out with crackers, toasted flatbreads or tortilla chips.

When we offer this cream-cheesy salsa of fresh cranberries, cilantro and a little jalapeno kick, everyone hovers around the serving dish until it’s scraped clean. —Recipe contributor Shelly Pattison, Lubbock, Texas

Taste of Home

Candied Bacon-Wrapped Figs

Stuff figs with cream cheese and wrap them in bacon and spices for a crowd-pleasing flavor combination that’s sweet, salty and delicious. Can’t find figs? Dates work well in this recipe, too.

I stuffed figs with cream cheese and wrapped them in bacon and spices for an addictive flavor combo that’s sweet, salty and delicious. You can use dates, too. —Recipe contributor Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

Taste of Home

Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Spread

A hint of five spice and hot pepper adds some real pizzazz to this creamy holiday cheese spread. Pair it with hearty seeded crackers for more layered flavors.

This easy spread is based on several different relishes and spreads I’ve tasted or made before. I love the sweet and spicy combination of flavors. —Recipe contributor Diane Nemitz, Ludington, Michigan

Taste of Home

Baked Onion Dip

Bake this dreamy dip in a pretty oven-safe dish so it can go directly from the oven to the Thanksgiving appetizer table. Two kinds of cheese and sweet onions ensure all of your guests will love this dip, especially anyone looking for more meatless options.

Some people like this cheesy dip so much that they can’t tear themselves away from the appetizer table to eat their dinner. But can you blame them? With two kinds of cheese and sweet onions in the mix, this ultra creamy dip is unforgettable. —Recipe contributor Mona Zignego, Hartford, Wisconsin

Bourbon Bacon Jam Recipe photo by Kristina Vanni for Taste of Home

Bourbon Bacon Jam

Bacon makes everything better, especially when it’s mixed with brown sugar and spices. This jam can be served on its own with crackers, but it’s truly a cheese board’s best friend. Freeze the bacon first for easy prep.

You can slather this smoky bacon jam on pretty much anything. It lasts only a week in the fridge, so I freeze small amounts for a quick snack with crackers. —Recipe contributor Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Taste of Home

Lemon-Herb Olives with Goat Cheese

Really good Greek olives need little embellishment, but blended with citrus and fresh herbs they become a lovely condiment for goat cheese. The flavored olives are also great solo with your favorite crackers or fresh-baked bread.

Greek olives have a fruity flavor that comes into play when you mix them with lemon and fresh herbs. Spoon over goat cheese and slather on crackers. —Recipe contributor Jeanne Ambrose, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Taste of Home

Gorgonzola Polenta Bites

These colorful polenta bites with Gorgonzola cheese will look lovely on your Thanksgiving table. The sauce is a heavenly combination of orange marmalade and balsamic vinegar. Need we say more?

I needed a brand-new appetizer for a big party. I covered polenta with Gorgonzola and a tangy sauce. That’s how you spread holiday cheer. —Recipe contributor Margee Berry, White Salmon, Washington

Marinated Olive & Cheese Ring Recipe photo by Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Marinated Olive & Cheese Ring

This pretty platter is sprinkled with pimientos, fresh basil and parsley for even more pizazz. You can try out your favorite cheeses and even tuck salami in between the slices.

We love to make meals into celebrations, and antipasto always kicks off the party for Italian dinners. This one is almost too pretty to eat, especially when sprinkled with pimientos, fresh basil and parsley. —Recipe contributor Patricia Harmon, Baden, Pennsylvania

Taste of Home

White Chocolate Brie Cups

With brie, orange marmalade and kumquat slices, these unique little tarts feel special without the fuss. The sweetness serves as a good foil for all the other Thanksgiving appetizers and dishes typically served throughout the day.

Try these unique little tarts as an appetizer before a special meal, or save them for a surprisingly different dinner finale. They’re sweet, creamy and crunchy—and very addictive! —Recipe contributor Angela Vitale, Delaware, Ohio

Taste of Home

Sausage Mushroom Appetizers

You can make these stuffed mushrooms with crabmeat, pork sausage or even venison depending on what the rest of your dinner looks like. With spicy mustard and cajun seasoning, they are cheesy and hot.

These stuffed mushrooms are can’t-stop-eating-them good. For variations, I sometimes substitute venison or crabmeat for the pork sausage in the stuffing. —Recipe contributor Sheryl Siemonsma, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Taste of Home

Chunky Blue Cheese Dip

Serve this savory (and easy!) blue cheese dip with crostini, crackers or toasted baguette. Pecans on top add flavor and texture, but walnuts or almonds also work.

Every time I make this quick blue cheese dip, someone asks for the recipe. It only requires a few items, so its a snap to put together. I often prepare the thick spread with Gorgonzola cheese and serve it with toasted pecans. —Recipe contributor Sandy Schneider Naperville, Illinois

Taste of Home

Goat Cheese Mushrooms

When choosing the right mushroom to stuff, it’s best to stick with a good medium-sized button mushroom, like baby portobellos. Load them up with creamy goat cheese and sweet red peppers for a superstar appetizer.

Stuffed mushrooms are superstars in the hot appetizer category. I use baby portobello mushrooms and load them with creamy goat cheese and sweet red peppers. —Recipe contributor Mike Bass, Alvin, Texas

Baked Brie with Apples Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Apple-Pecan Baked Brie

Brie stuffed and topped with a stewed, spiced apple, tart cranberries and crunchy pecans is everything you want for a holiday party. It’s baked until the cheese gets nice and gooey and the aromas of the spiced fruit fill the house.

As family arrives for a get-together, I make sure this fruity and savory Brie is in the oven so the aromas of cinnamon and apples fill the house. —Recipe contributor Alicia Gower, Auburn, New York

Taste of Home

Three-Cheese Pepperoncini Spread

Taking cues from Kopanisti, a spicy, peppery cheese spread famous on the island of Mykonos, this creamy spread has three cheeses (cream, blue and feta) plus lots of punchy pepperoncinis. Serve it with crackers or quartered pita bread.

Our big family loves to celebrate with food. Here’s my take on a cheesy Greek spread known as Kopanisti. We serve it with pita crisps or crackers. —Recipe contributor Michael Hall, Goodland, Indiana

Savory Stuffed Cherry Peppers

When it comes to antipasto recipes, these anchovy-stuffed peppers steal the show. Serve them warm or cold with a loaf of Italian bread.

Our family’s holiday dinners always include a giant antipasto, and the showpiece when we were growing up was Mom’s stuffed hot peppers on top of the display. There isn’t a holiday that we don’t make them in her honor. These stuffed peppers are remarkable hot or cold. Serve with a nice loaf of Italian bread and a glass of wine. —Recipe contributor Donna Scarano, East Hanover, New Jersey

Taste of Home

Garlic-Herb Mini Quiches

If you’re looking to really wow your guests, these impressive mini quiches will do the trick. Made with only five ingredients, including creamy herbed cheese and frozen phyllo shells, it’s an easy and elegant Thanksgiving appetizer.

Looking for a wonderful way to impress guests? You’ve got it—and you need only five ingredients to make these tasty apps! —Recipe contributor Josephine Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania

Best Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp

After a quick marinade, the shrimp develop a slightly sweet, perfectly spiced flavor. Paired with rich, savory bacon, you’ve got a no-big-deal appetizer that’s great for cocktail parties, potlucks and everything in between.

Bacon and shrimp make a great team in this super easy party appetizer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

TASTE OF HOME

Chili-Lime Air-Fried Chickpeas

Crispy chickpeas spiced with cumin, chili powder and lime zest are highly addictive. Make a few batches in the air fryer and set bowls around the room for your holiday gathering.

These zesty, crunchy chickpeas will have everyone happily munching. —Recipe contributor Julie Ruble, Charlotte, North Carolina

Bacon, Blue Cheese & Fig Bruschetta Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Bacon, Blue Cheese & Fig Bruschetta

The sweet and savory combination of salty blue cheese, balsamic glaze and fig preserves creates a perfect holiday finger food. If you don’t love blue cheese, you can substitute feta or goat cheese.

This is my decadent, robust version of bruschetta. I like to serve it at parties, especially on New Year’s or other winter holidays. If you don’t like blue cheese, you can substitute feta or goat cheese. —Recipe contributor Kristyne Mcdougle Walter, Lorain, Ohio

Shrimp Rangoon Recipe photo by Julia Hartbeck for Taste of Home

Shrimp Rangoon

Filled with cream cheese, shrimp and aromatics, these deep-fried party favorites are hard to resist. Serve with sweet chili sauce or homemade sweet-and-sour sauce for dipping.

For a new twist on crab rangoon, try this creamy shrimp version. The golden brown bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Cranberry Endive Appetizers Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Cranberry Endive Appetizers

Crisp and mild endive leaves are the perfect vehicle for the creamy cheese filling. Apple jelly and cranberries add a touch of sweetness and bring the holiday flavors home.

You can pack a lot of flavor into an elegant appetizer just by using the right combination of ingredients. I created this blue cheese filling for a holiday gathering and everyone loved it! —Recipe contributor Margee Berry, White Salmon, Washington

Taste of Home

Fireside Cheese Spread

Who knew such a simple cheese spread could pack in so much flavor? This recipe calls for cheddar cheese spread, but you can also use Swiss; instead of garlic powder, use fresh instead. Keep a lot of crackers and bread sticks handy for this one.

When our family and friends get together for holidays or other occasions, I serve this appetizer. It’s always a success. If you prefer, try a Swiss cheese spread instead of the cheddar. And, if you enjoy garlic, substitute a small clove of minced garlic for the garlic powder. —Recipe contributor Debbie Terenzini-Wilkerson, Lusby, Maryland