40 Easy Appetizer Recipes Party Guests Love

Elevate your next party or potluck with these appetizer recipes. They’re the perfect way to get any festivities started! 

When planning a party, it’s important to have recipes everyone enjoys. You also want easy appetizers that don’t cause you much stress.

This list takes care of both of those things!

40 Best Party Appetizers

From cheese balls and dips to meatballs and sliders, appetizers should include tasty finger foods for everyone to enjoy.

Abd boy, do I have you covered!

These appetizer recipes are easy to make and fun to eat. That’s a win in my book!

Party Finger Foods

Caprese Skewers 

I love anything served on skewers. There’s just something so charming about them that makes them impossible to resist.

Bite-sized mozzarella balls, basil, and cherry tomatoes are threaded onto skewers for this recipe. Then, you’ll drizzle them with a sweet balsamic reduction.

They’re sweet, salty, and oh-so refreshing.

Pigs in a Blanket with Cheese 

Bite-sized sausages wrapped in cheese and flaky pastry and baked to perfection. Doesn’t that sound just heavenly?!

They’re crispy, buttery, soft, chewy, and purely phenomenal.

I love the textural contrast between the flaky pastry, melted cheese, and snappy sausage! These pigs definitely get a 12/10.

Texas Trash  

It may be called trash, but it’s definitely priceless. The combination of Chex cereals, pretzels, and nuts is absolutely amazing.

It doesn’t end there, though. As delicious as they already are, they’re bathed with a blend of seasoned butter and Worcestershire sauce.

Delicious is an understatement.

Pumpkin Goat Cheese Crostini  

Pumpkin goat cheese crostini – another fancy appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make! They look good and taste even better.

They’re crispy, bite-sized baguettes topped with goat cheese and a mixture of pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and fall spices.

Topped with walnuts, cranberries, and more, this elegant finger food makes the perfect party or potluck appetizer.

Cranberry Brie Bites 

These tasty little morsels are unbelievably elegant. They’re perfect for holiday dinners and more formal events.

Of course, they’re also spectacularly easy to make. So, they’re pretty perfect for those casual get-togethers, too.

They’re sweetly tart, tangy, and savory. You’ll love every mouthful.

Salami and Cream Cheese Bites

How adorable are these salami and cream cheese bites? Soft and creamy cream cheese is wrapped in salami and topped with olives.

They’re as much fun to make as they are to eat!

The ingredients are threaded onto skewers, but don’t worry. There’s a super easy technique that’ll make the seemingly tedious task almost effortless.

Alabama Fire Crackers 

Saltine crackers as a party appetizer? Sounds boring, right? Not these Alabama Firecrackers! In fact, they’re anything BUT boring!

Sure, they start as nothing more than plain old saltines. But you’ll jazz them up with garlic powder, onion powder, ranch dressing mix, and more!

The result is an uber-flavorful cracker that’s borderline addictive. Everyone will want more.

Garlic Parmesan Wings  

Wingstop’s garlic parmesan wings are my absolute favorite wings. You can just imagine my glee when I came across this copycat recipe.

I’ve made this several times already, and they taste perfect every time.

They’re crispy outside, juicy inside, and buttery and cheesy all the way through.

Soft Pretzel Bites

I said I’d only feature easy appetizers, and I’m a woman of my word.

Despite what people think, these soft pretzel bites aren’t difficult to make. They just take time.

But what’s a little time for Auntie Anne’s level of greatness?!

These bite-sized treats are mildly crispy outside and outrageously soft, chewy, and pillowy inside. They smell like Heaven, too.

Italian Pizza Bites  

These pizza bites are like savory muffins loaded with pepperoni, salami, and mozzarella.

Drizzled or dipped in marinara, these morsels are definitely one for the books.

They’re awesome as they are. Still, you can switch things up by adding more pizza toppings. Crumbled sausage, bacon, pineapple — the sky’s the limit.

Crab Cakes

Crab cakes are crunchy outside, tender inside, and full of umami-packed flavor. They’re an elegant appetizer that’s quick to make and easy to enjoy.

They work well for practically any occasion – formal or otherwise. And despite their seafood flavor, most people enjoy them, including kids!

This easy crab cake recipe is a must-have if you’re a frequent entertainer.

Sausage Balls

Like cheese balls, sausage balls are another appetizer I can never turn down. Especially when they’re made of juicy, succulent Jimmy Dean sausage.

They’re the heartiest, meatiest, best-tasting sausage balls around. For a bit of heat, use Jimmy Dean’s spicy sausage instead.

Texas Twinkies

Don’t let your sweet tooth get excited just yet. Texas Twinkies aren’t exactly like the Hostess snack cakes of the same name.

Instead, they’re more like jalapeno poppers wrapped in bacon and smothered in barbecue sauce.

Actually, they aren’t LIKE that — that’s precisely what they ARE. They won’t satisfy your sweet tooth, but they’re still phenomenal.

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Honestly, I’ll always love recipes with the phrase “bacon-wrapped” in them. I don’t even have to try them to know.

You could say we were eating “bacon-wrapped toadstool eggs,” and I wouldn’t care. I wouldn’t hear anything after “bacon-wrapped.”

Luckily, these tasty morsels of shrimp are much more appetizing than whatever toadstool eggs are. The bacon just adds extra yumminess.

Grape Jelly Meatballs 

It doesn’t matter what kind of party or gathering you’re planning. You can never go wrong with meatball appetizers. 

People love meatballs, especially sweet and savory ones like these grape jelly meatballs. They have just the right amount of heat, sweetness, and sauce. 

Plus, you can make these in the Crockpot, so they’re very hands-off. 

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are traditional Christmas appetizer recipes. That’s why there are so many recipes for how to make them!

Paula Deen’s version is one of my favorites. They have all the flavor and texture of classic deviled eggs.

However, the sweet gherkin pickles and pimentos add a little something extra. They look great, taste great, and have a phenomenal texture.

Crockpot Buffalo Wings 

Game day has never tasted this good! Even if your team loses, these Crockpot buffalo chicken wings will make you feel like a winner.

I mean, how mouthwatering is that glaze? Made from butter and hot sauce, it’s as delicious as it looks.

The wings themselves are unbelievable, too! Crispy outside, tender and juicy inside, and perfectly seasoned in every bite.

Dip Recipes

Velveeta Sausage Dip 

Crumbled sausage, melted cheese, diced tomatoes, and chili combine in one magical dip.

Ah, Velveeta sausage dip. You may not be a looker, but you taste absolutely phenomenal.

Savory, creamy, cheesy, and meaty. When it comes to awesome dip qualities, it checks all the boxes.

I highly suggest doubling or tripling the recipe, for this dip won’t last long.

Queso 

I have good news if you’re obsessed with Qdoba’s queso dip. This recipe makes a pretty perfect replica of the original.

In terms of copycat recipes, it’s one of the best. It’s ridiculously cheesy and will be gone in a snap. Take it up a notch by adding jalapenos. 

It’s easy to make and way cheaper than takeout, to boot. What more can you ask for?

Hot Crab Dip  

Didn’t I promise you plenty of dips on this roundup? Well, here’s one more! This cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth dip is totally drool-worthy. 

It’s packed with umami flavor and is good till the last bite. Serve it with chips or Ritz crackers for dipping. Cool, crisp veggies would work, too. 

Pro tip: This one also makes an excellent stand-alone casserole for dinner. 

Buffalo Chicken Wing Dip 

Enjoy your favorite buffalo wings without the mess!

This dip is loaded with shredded chicken, cream cheese, blue cheese, cheddar cheese, and hot sauce.

The combination of the chicken, hot sauce, and cheese will knock your socks off.

It’s technically a dip served with chips, crackers, and crudites. But I don’t mind eating it by itself with a spoon.

Seven Layer Taco Dip 

Seven whopping layers – talk about over the top. This dip may have several components, but they create a beautiful harmony of flavors.

So, here’s how the layering goes.

Start with refried beans. Then, add sour cream, cream cheese, salsa, tomatoes, pepper, green onions, shredded cheese, and black olives.

It’s like combining all your favorite Mexican toppings into one majestic dip. It’s legendary.

Pimento Cheese

When most people think of pimento cheese, they imagine cool summer sandwiches. And pimento cheese is certainly great for that.

However, you can also use it as a spread or a dip!

It’s creamy and rich but still refreshing and not too heavy. Paired with salty chips or Ritz crackers, it also has a nice sweetness.

Guacamole

I can’t think of a dish that doesn’t pair well with guacamole. You can add it to nachos, tacos, sandwiches, salads, fish, and more!

This rich and creamy sauce of mashed avocados is truly versatile. And when it comes to guacamole, nothing beats Chipotle’s recipe!

Fortunately, you can make your own version at home with this easy copycat recipe.

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Ah, my favorite — spinach artichoke dip. Vegetables have never been this addictive.

Toss artichokes and spinach leaves with garlic alfredo sauce, cream cheese, parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella. The result is divine.

Even kids won’t be able to say no.

So, if you’re looking for a fun way to introduce these two veggies to your kids, this is the recipe for you.

French Onion Dip

Dean’s French onion dip is one of my all-time favorite store-bought dips.

This French onion dip, though, has more in common with French onion soup than Dean’s dip. It’s warm and flavorful, full of ooey-gooey melted cheeses.

There’s Gruyere, cream cheese, and parmesan. Plus, chives, thyme, and other yummy ingredients. Serve it with crusty toasted bread for dipping.

Hot Bean Dip

This hot bean dip may look similar to the French onion dip above, but the two are different. True, they’re both loaded down with gooey cheese.

However, that’s where their similarities end. Besides being cheesy, bean dip is also warm, earthy, and full of South-of-the-Border flavor.

Between the refried beans and taco seasoning, it’s almost like nachos without the chips.

Jalapeno Popper Dip

You can’t have a list of holiday appetizer recipes without including lots and lots of dips. This is the first of many to appear here.

It’s cheesy and spicy with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. With bacon, jalapenos, green onions, and three kinds of cheese, it also has a ton of flavor.

Hormel Chili Dip 

Having your friends over for an impromptu get-together? This recipe has you covered.

Creamy, cheesy, and addictive: no other words can better describe this Hormel chili dip. With only three ingredients, it’s shockingly delicious.

All you’ll need are chili, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.

It comes together in one bowl, and you don’t even need to cook. Just microwave the ingredients, and voila

Easy Appetizers for A Crowd

Veggie Tray 

Let’s take a break from the sinful appetizers and focus on this more nutritious veggie tray.

It may not be as decadent as the others on this list, but it’s still delicious.

Plus, how pretty is it?! The medley of veggies creates such a vibrant color combination. Serve it with an array of dips, and you’re all set.

Ham and Cheese Sliders

My grandmother makes these fun-sized slider sandwiches at every get-together my family has. And no, I haven’t stopped loving them yet!

They’re classic ham and cheese sandwiches — only better. The butter and herbs give them so much more flavor.

And their small size makes them perfect for snacking while talking, playing games, or wandering around. They’re always a hit!

Cowboy Caviar 

I can’t get over how wonderfully colorful cowboy caviar is! It may not be as elegant as actual caviar, but I’d choose it any day.

Unlike the usual creamy, cheesy dips, this highlights vegetables, proving that healthy can also be delicious.

Filled with tiny chunks of refreshing veggies, it can be a dip or a side dish!

Little Smokies Wrapped in Bacon

Sausages + Bacon = Pure Love.

Believe me when I say that this appetizer will be the first to disappear at your party. It’s that good.

Smoky, salty, savory: You can’t go wrong with this epic flavor profile. The textures are on point as well.

Crisp and fatty bacon meets snappy smokies? That’s what I call a winning combination.

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

I love stuffing things into vegetables. They add personality and transform the veggies from so-so to spectacular.

In this recipe, you’ll fill earthy mushroom caps with mayo, crabmeat, green onions, and herbs.

Finished off with parmesan and paprika, these appetizers will delight your party guests!

Nachos 

For a guaranteed crowd-pleasing appetizer, go for nachos. Seriously, I have yet to meet a person who can say no to this addictive Mexican treat.

Simply top crunchy chips with ground beef, refried beans, jalapeno poppers, and melted cheese. Or whatever toppings you like best!

I enjoy sour cream, salsa, and guacamole. Yum!

Tomato Basil Bruschetta 

Ripe red tomatoes, earthy basil, and piquant garlic rest on top of crisp, toasted French bread. This is bruschetta for the win!

You’ll love how, despite its simplicity, this bruschetta is so full of flavor.

Take it one step further and drizzle the toasts with balsamic vinegar. It really gives the appetizer that extra oomph.

Antipasto Bake

“Antipasto bake” sounds more like dinner than a party appetizer. In truth, it can work as both.

Serve it in a serving dish for dinner, or cut it into squares for your next party. Either way, it tastes delicious, and everyone will love it.

It’s everything you love about Italian-flavor-packed antipasto skewers. Only this comes in a much heartier package.

Corn Salsa

Typically, salsa is all about the tomatoes and cilantro. In this case, though, this salsa is all about the corn!

It’s a sweet-n-savory mix of corn, red onions, jalapenos, and cilantro. Mix in a little lime juice and salt, and it’s ready to serve.

The whole recipe takes 10 minutes from start to finish. That’s MY kind of appetizer.

Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball

I love a good cheese ball. In fact, I’d almost say that cheese balls are my all-time favorite party appetizers. They’re easy to make, versatile, and super delicious. 

I love them all, whether they’re sweet, savory, herby, or spicy. 

This ultimate ranch cheese ball definitely fits into the savory category. You can whip it up with just four ingredients, too. 

Crispy Potato Skins

Fully loaded potato skins are the ultimate Game Day snack, sure to satisfy all your guests. They’re crispy, crunchy mouthfuls of YUM.

Serve them by themselves or with various sauces for dipping. Either way, they’ll quickly disappear right off the serving platter.