Appetizers set the perfect tone before your meal arrives. And with Thanksgiving, we often have large gatherings, so a lot of food is important. So with that in mind, here are some of my favorite Thanksgiving appetizers.
These small bites keep hungry guests satisfied while the turkey finishes roasting and give everyone something delicious to enjoy during those final hours of preparation.
The best part about easy Thanksgiving appetizers is that many can be prepared at room temperature or made ahead of time. From classic cheese balls with cream cheese to elegant cranberry brie bites, these recipes won’t compete with your main course prep time.
Your Thanksgiving menu deserves appetizers that capture those beloved fall flavors. Think bacon-wrapped dates drizzled with honey, pumpkin hummus served with apple slices, or cranberry meatballs that bring sweet and savory together perfectly.
These 35 recipes range from simple cheese boards requiring just a handful of basic ingredients to more elaborate options like prosciutto crostini topped with goat cheese and fresh herbs. Many use store-bought shortcuts to save precious Turkey Day kitchen time.
Whether you need a quick artichoke dip made with sour cream or want to impress with caramelized onion dip featuring melty cheese, these holiday appetizer ideas ensure your Thanksgiving feast starts on the most delicious note possible.
35 Best Thanksgiving Appetizers
1. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Sweet dates pair with smoky bacon for a bite that’s chewy and crisp. A touch of cheese or a nut filling makes them richer. They’re small, satisfying, and always go quickly at a party.
2. Classic Deviled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs filled with a creamy yolk mix never fail to please. A dash of paprika or mustard adds kick. These are simple, familiar, and disappear fast from the table.
3. Goat Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms
Small mushrooms get packed with tangy goat cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs. They bake into savory bites that balance creamy and crisp. Perfect for guests who like earthy, bold flavors.
4. Crudité Platter with Pimiento Cheese
Fresh vegetables meet a creamy, tangy cheese dip. The mix of crisp produce and rich spread keeps things light but filling. This platter offers a colorful, fresh start to the meal.
5. Sausage and Apple Stuffing Bites
Classic stuffing turns into handheld bites. Savory sausage mixes with sweet apples and herbs, then bakes until golden. It’s a fun twist on a favorite Thanksgiving side.
6. Cheddar Cheese Coins
These small crackers are sharp, buttery, and crisp. They taste great plain or topped with spreads. Easy to make ahead, they bring a comforting, cheesy flavor to the table.
7. Chipotle-Cranberry Turkey Meatballs
Moist turkey meatballs get a smoky-sweet glaze made from cranberries and chipotle. They offer bold holiday flavor in one bite. Easy to prep, they’re hearty without being heavy.
8. Onion Jam and Goat Cheese Rugelach
A flaky pastry roll filled with sweet onion jam and creamy cheese. The mix of savory and rich works beautifully with sparkling drinks. They look elegant and taste even better.
9. Butternut Squash and Sage Wontons
These golden dumplings are filled with mashed squash and herbs. Crisped before serving, they bring fall flavors in a small package. They’re light yet comforting.
10. Mini Deviled Crab Cornbread Muffins
Sweet cornbread holds a creamy crab filling with gentle spice. They’re bite-sized and moist, offering a seafood twist for the holiday. A Southern-inspired snack that feels festive.
11. Wild Mushroom Galette
A rustic tart with flaky crust, creamy cheese, and roasted mushrooms. Each slice gives earthy, savory flavors with herbs. It’s hearty but still light enough for a starter.
12. Green Curry Deviled Eggs
A twist on the classic, these eggs use curry paste for heat and herbs. A sprinkle of crisp topping adds crunch. They’re familiar but fresh at the same time.
13. Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tart
Buttery pastry holds sweet onions and nutty cheese. It’s rich, golden, and easy to cut into small bites. A warm, crowd-pleasing option for Thanksgiving.
14. Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts turn into finger food when wrapped in bacon. They roast until smoky and crisp. The mix of tender vegetables and savory bacon works for nearly everyone.
15. Ricotta Toast with Roasted Grapes
Creamy ricotta spread on crisp bread, topped with juicy roasted grapes. Sweet and savory meet in one bite. It feels fancy but is very easy to prepare.
16. Cuban Pastelitos de Guayaba y Queso
These flaky pastries can be filled with savory or sweet fillings. This Cuban version calls for guava paste and cream cheese. They’re golden, crisp, and fun to eat with your hands. A festive nod to family-style gatherings.
17. Crostini with Squash and Preserved Lemon
Toasted bread slices hold creamy ricotta and sweet squash. A touch of preserved lemon adds brightness. These bites balance rich and refreshing flavors.
18. Mayan Pumpkin Seed Dip
This thick spread made from roasted seeds and herbs is earthy and bold. Lime and spices give it a fresh kick. Scoop it up with chips or bread.
19. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Spicy jalapeños stuffed with cheese, then wrapped in bacon. They’re smoky, creamy, and hot in every bite. A fun appetizer for those who like spice.
20. Green Peppercorn-Marinated Feta
Chunks of feta soak in briny herbs and spices. The cheese gets a bold flavor while remaining creamy. It pairs well with crackers or fresh fruit.
21. Cauliflower Fritters
Chopped cauliflower mixed into a light batter and fried. Crisp outside and tender inside, they’re served with tangy yogurt sauce. A simple but tasty veggie bite.
22. Mixed Nuts with Garlic and Herbs
Roasted nuts coated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs. They’re crunchy, fragrant, and easy to grab by the handful. A classic snack that’s hard to resist.
23. Goat Cheese and Herb Spread
Smooth goat cheese whipped with herbs for a tangy dip. It spreads easily on bread or crackers. Simple, light, and full of flavor.
24. Za’atar Beet Dip with Hazelnuts
Pureed roasted beets mixed with spices, then topped with nuts and cheese. The color is striking and the taste earthy. Best served with warm bread.
25. Red Pepper and Cheese Gougères
Light puffs filled with cheese and flavored with pepper. They’re airy, savory, and melt in your mouth. A French-inspired snack that feels elegant but fun.
26. Mushroom Conserva
Tender mushrooms marinated in oil, vinegar, and herbs. They stay flavorful and ready to serve days in advance. Great with bread or cheese boards.
27. Pigs in a Blanket
Mini sausages wrapped in dough and baked until golden. Familiar, easy, and always popular. A nostalgic snack that fits any gathering.
28. Chicken Liver Mousse
Rich and creamy, this spread has bold flavor with a rustic touch. Served on bread or crackers, it feels indulgent. Great for guests who like deeper tastes.
29. Shrimp Cocktail
Chilled shrimp served with a tangy cocktail sauce. Clean, simple, and refreshing. A light seafood option before a big meal.
30. Maw Maw B’s Preserved Figs
Sweet figs cooked down into a thick syrup. They’re best with cheese or bread. A classic, old-fashioned treat that feels special on the table.
31. Classic Cheese Ball with Spiced Pecans
A creamy cheese mixture shaped into a ball and rolled in pecans. Savory, nutty, and easy to slice onto crackers. It’s a party staple for good reason.
32. Butternut Squash Soup Shooters
Smooth soup served in small glasses for sipping. Warm, sweet squash with a hint of spice. It’s cozy and elegant at the same time.
33. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon
Sweet melon slices wrapped in salty cured ham. A fresh and simple mix of flavors. Light, quick, and refreshing before the main meal.
34. Musubi Lettuce Wraps with Pineapple Salsa
Sticky rice and ham wrapped in lettuce, topped with bright salsa. Each bite is sweet, savory, and crisp. A Hawaiian-inspired snack with a holiday twist.
35. Caramelized Onion Dip
Slow-cooked onions stirred into a creamy dip. Rich and sweet, it pairs well with chips or bread. Familiar, comforting, and easy to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
These Thanksgiving appetizer recipes prove that small bites can make a big impact on your holiday meal. From spinach dip made with sour cream to elegant Brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup, you now have options for every taste and skill level.
The perfect way to execute these recipes is planning ahead. Many delicious dips and cheese ball bites can be prepared the day before, leaving you free to focus on your main course when Thanksgiving Day arrives.
Don’t overlook the power of simple ingredients to create memorable flavors. A basic artichoke dip becomes special with fresh thyme, while store-bought puff pastry transforms into golden perfection with just brown sugar and black pepper.
Your serving dish choices matter too – arrange mozzarella balls and apple slices on charcuterie boards for visual appeal. These finishing touches help your appetizers look as impressive as they taste.
Keep your favorite Thanksgiving appetizers in your recipe rotation throughout the holiday season. These crowd-pleasers work just as well for Christmas parties or New Year’s gatherings, ensuring you’ll get plenty of use from these tested recipes.
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- Musubi Lettuce Wraps with Pineapple Salsa Recipe - September 2, 2025