Thanksgiving is all about family, friends, and unforgettable flavors—and what better way to kick off the feast than with mouthwatering appetizers? From creamy, indulgent dips to bite-sized snacks that pack a punch, the right starter can set the tone for the entire meal.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or a full-scale Thanksgiving party, these appetizer recipes will keep your guests happily snacking while the turkey roasts. From classic crowd-pleasers like spinach artichoke dip and little smokies to more adventurous bites like cheeseburger sliders and spicy Rotel dip, this list has something for everyone.
Get ready to make your holiday celebration even more memorable with these easy, flavorful, and festive appetizers!
Thanksgiving is all about family, friends, and unforgettable flavors—and what better way to kick off the feast than with mouthwatering appetizers? From creamy, indulgent dips to bite-sized snacks that pack a punch, the right starter can set the tone for the entire meal.
Homemade Queso Cheese Dip
This Homemade Queso Cheese is the best Mexican-inspired restaurant-style dip. It’s made with creamy, melted cheese, fire-roasted tomatoes, cilantro, and the perfect spices to keep everyone wanting more.
Cheeseburger Sliders on Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
This Kings Hawaiian Sliders recipe is crafted with juicy and seasoned ground beef, nestled within the warm embrace of gooey melted cheese and the sweet rolls we all love.
Stuffed Mushrooms
These Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms are seasoned with Old Bay and filled with real jumbo lump crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella. These homemade caps are better than the Red Lobster version.
Rotel Dip without Velveeta
This Rotel Dip with Ground Beef is made with a twist and no Velveeta. This creamy and cheesy dip features real cheddar and pepperjack cheese along with homemade taco seasoning for a flavor-packed appetizer. Perfect for game day, parties, or any time you crave comfort.
Little Smokies
These Slow Cooker Crockpot Cocktail Sausage AKA Little Smokies bring the savory sensation of perfectly seasoned, slow-cooked goodness to your next meal or gathering.
How to Make the Best Charcuterie and Cheese Board
This post will show you How to Make the Best Charcuterie and Cheese Board that is homemade and epic, ready to serve on the menu for holidays, parties, and events. This DIY platter consists of an Italian meat and cheese tray. You can prepare this huge plate using an array of your favorite ingredients and without cooking. That’s right, you don’t need a recipe!
Cocktail Shrimp
This recipe will show you how to make shrimp cocktail, a timeless and elegant dish with perfectly boiled or poached shrimp that take center stage in a classic presentation that never fails to impress. The dish is paired with a zesty cocktail sauce, creating a refreshing balance of flavors.
Slow Cooker Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip
This Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip uses the magic of your Crock-Pot to transform simple ingredients into the perfect appetizer. Slow cooking creates a luscious texture and the perfect blend of savory spinach, tender artichokes, and creamy cheese. Make it for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
Crispy Dry Rub Chicken Wings
Looking for how to season chicken wings? This Crispy Dry Rub recipe has the best homemade spice blend. These party wings have the flavor of smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and more.
Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken Wings
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken Wings recipe is ready in a couple of hours, simply dump the ingredients and go. Grab fresh or frozen wings and season them with a dry rub and a drizzle of buffalo or BBQ sauce. This method makes tender juicy, fall-off-the-bone wings every time!
Smoked Salsa Recipe
This Smoked Salsa is the best homemade recipe with tomatoes, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime tossed on the smoker for delicious flavor. Pair this dip with your favorite chips, nachos, tacos, and more.
Chili Cheese Fries
This Chili Cheese Fries recipe is loaded with homemade beef chili, gooey melted cheese, and topped with green onions. You can even use leftover chili to make this restaurant-quality appetizer!
Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers
Air Fryer Bacon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers is a quick and spicy recipe. This dish has savory and creamy melted cheddar cheese and is also crunchy. Makes the perfect appetizer or snack for parties, gatherings, or events.
Sweet Chili Chicken Wings
These Sweet Chili Chicken Wings are made with a Thai red sauce that is sweet, sour, and has a small spicy kick. You can bake or air fry these crispy wings and then drizzle them in a gooey, homemade sauce.
Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
These Honey Garlic Chicken Wings are drizzled in a decadent, homemade sauce made with soy sauce, paprika, ginger, honey, and garlic for the perfect balance of flavor. You can bake or air-fry these crispy, breaded wings.
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Hot Wings
Air Fryer Crispy Buffalo Chicken Hot Wings is a quick and easy recipe that uses a marinade and dry rub to perfectly season the chicken.
Shrimp Egg Rolls
These Shrimp Egg Rolls are the best homemade appetizer that can be served baked or fried. This recipe includes quick video instructions on how to roll egg roll wrappers. These are perfect to make ahead and freeze for later!
Beef Empanadas Recipe
This Beef Empanadas Recipe is the perfect appetizer loaded with ground beef, melted cheese, and seasoned to perfection with homemade taco seasoning. The dish comes together quickly using Goya empanadas wrappers. This South American and Puerto Rican dish is perfect for any gathering, including Cinco de Mayo.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are quick and easy to make. These wings are drizzled in melted butter, garlic, and fresh lemon juice. This is the perfect weeknight meal!
Creamy BLT Dip Recipe
This Creamy BLT Dip Recipe is loaded with bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and cream cheese. It also includes the best homemade ranch seasoning mix. Serve this party appetizer dip cold or baked and warm.
Baked Crab Rangoon Dip
Easy Baked Crab Rangoon Dip is the best appetizer recipe made with jumbo lump crab and cream cheese. Serve this dip with wonton chips or fresh veggies. You can use imitation crab if you wish.
Air Fryer Blooming Onion Recipe
Easy recipe using a whole onion to create the best crispy breaded appetizer.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges
These Air Fryer Homemade Potato Wedges are roasted and seasoned to perfection with smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder. Love KFC wedges? You will cut the calories and fat with these without compromising the same great taste.
Three Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
This recipe is loaded with parmesan, sharp cheddar, and white cheddar cheese, creamy cream cheese, and savory garlic. This dish is the perfect appetizer for parties, events, and gatherings.
Air Fryer Tortilla Chips
Air Fryer Tortilla Chips is a quick 10 minute recipe that will show you how to make homemade chips from scratch using only 3 ingredients. Pair these air fried corn tortillas with your favorite salsa or guacamole.
Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings
Quick and easy recipe prepared with a seasoned buttermilk batter.
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos
This Easy Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos recipe is made using pulled chicken and is ready in less than 30 minutes thanks to the pressure cooker. This is the best Mexican-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
Homemade rolls using sausage, pepperoni, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese.
Air Fryer Crunchy Fried Pickles
Crispy breaded and air fried. Dip these in ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.
Blackened Fish Tacos
These Blackened Fish Tacos are seasoned with a homemade Cajun rub consisting of bold spices like paprika and cayenne pepper. These tacos are served with corn tortillas, California avocados, and fresh vegetables.
Air Fryer Potato Skins
These Air Fryer Potato Skins are loaded with crunchy bacon, gooey melted cheddar cheese, and then drizzled in ranch. Fill these up with any of your favorite toppings for the perfect appetizer.