20 Appetizer Recipes That Will Make You the Life of Any Party

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Appetizer Recipes

Appetizers can make or break a party. They set the mood and get your guests excited for the meal to come. You can wow your friends and family with tasty bites that are quick and easy to make. From cheesy dips to crispy finger foods, there’s an appetizer for every taste and occasion.

Want to try something new? Mix it up with fun twists on classic recipes. Swap out ingredients or add unexpected flavors. Your guests will love sampling creative appetizers they’ve never had before. With so many options, you’re sure to find appetizers that will please any crowd.

Spinach And Artichoke Dip

Here’s what you’ll need to make this yummy dip:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
  • 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now let’s make it!

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

  2. In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo until smooth.

  3. Stir in the spinach, artichokes, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.

  4. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top with mozzarella.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

  6. Serve warm with chips, crackers, or veggies for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade spinach artichoke dip!

Buffalo Wings

Ready to make some tasty buffalo wings? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/3 cup hot sauce
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.

  2. Mix flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the wings in this mixture.

  3. Arrange wings on the rack in a single layer. Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  4. While wings cook, melt butter in a saucepan. Add hot sauce and vinegar, stirring to combine.

  5. Once wings are crispy, toss them in the sauce until well-coated.

  6. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side.

Enjoy your homemade buffalo wings! They’re perfect for game day or any time you’re craving a spicy snack.

Bruschetta

Want to make a tasty Italian appetizer? Try bruschetta! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 baguette, sliced
  • 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s make it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

  2. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast until golden, about 5-10 minutes.

  3. Mix tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar in a bowl. Add salt and pepper.

  4. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to blend flavors.

  5. Top each toasted bread slice with the tomato mixture.

  6. Serve right away and enjoy your homemade bruschetta!

This easy recipe is perfect for parties or as a light snack. The fresh flavors will make your taste buds dance!

Mozzarella Sticks

You’ll love these crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks! They’re perfect for parties or snacking.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 block mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Oil for frying

Now, let’s make them:

  1. Cut the mozzarella into sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.

  2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.

  3. Dip each cheese stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Coat them well!

  4. Freeze the coated sticks for 30 minutes. This helps them keep their shape when frying.

  5. Heat oil in a deep pan to 365°F (185°C).

  6. Fry the sticks for about 30 seconds until golden brown. Don’t overcook or they’ll melt!

  7. Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your crispy, melty mozzarella sticks with marinara sauce for dipping. Yum!

Deviled Eggs

You’ll love these tasty deviled eggs! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 6 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon pickle juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Paprika for garnish
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Directions:

  1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise. Scoop out the yolks into a bowl.

  2. Mash the yolks with a fork. Mix in the mayo, mustard, and pickle juice. Add salt and pepper.

  3. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.

  4. Sprinkle with paprika before serving. Enjoy your delicious deviled eggs!

For extra flavor, try adding finely chopped pickles or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also top them with crumbled bacon or chives.

Nachos

Want to make the best nachos ever? Here’s what you’ll need:

• Tortilla chips
• Refried beans
• Ground beef
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa

Now let’s get cooking!

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

  2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat.

  3. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet in a single layer.

  4. Dollop refried beans over the chips.

  5. Sprinkle the cooked beef and shredded cheese on top.

  6. Bake for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts.

  7. Remove from oven and add your fresh toppings.

Top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. You can customize your nachos with your favorite toppings. Get creative!

Serve right away while they’re still warm and gooey. These nachos are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a fun family meal.

Stuffed Mushrooms

You’ll love these tasty stuffed mushrooms! They’re perfect for parties or as a yummy snack. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 24 medium mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

  1. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Chop the stems finely.

  2. Mix cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and chopped stems in a bowl. Add salt and pepper.

  3. Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps.

  4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.

  5. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Your guests will gobble these up in no time!

Guacamole And Chips

You’ll need:

  • 5 ripe avocados
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and minced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • Salt to taste
  • Tortilla chips

For the guacamole:

  1. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop out the flesh into a bowl.

  2. Mash the avocados with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.

  3. Add the onion, tomatoes, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Mix gently.

  4. Squeeze in the lime juice and add salt to taste. Stir to combine.

  5. Cover the guacamole with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent browning. Chill for at least an hour.

For homemade chips:

  1. Cut corn tortillas into triangles.

  2. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.

  3. Fry the tortilla pieces in small batches until golden brown.

  4. Remove chips with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while still hot.

Serve your fresh guacamole with the warm, crispy chips and enjoy!

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound sea scallops
  • 8 slices bacon, cut in half
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Toothpicks

Here’s how to make them:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the scallops dry with paper towels.

Mix the scallops with lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick.

Place the wrapped scallops on a baking sheet lined with foil. Put a wire rack on top if you have one.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy. Flip them halfway through cooking.

Serve your bacon-wrapped scallops warm and enjoy this tasty appetizer!

Caprese Skewers

You’ll love these easy and tasty Caprese skewers! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh mozzarella balls
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Olive oil
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper
  • Toothpicks or small skewers

Directions:

  1. Wash and dry the tomatoes and basil leaves.

  2. If the basil leaves are large, tear them in half.

  3. Thread a tomato onto a toothpick, followed by a basil leaf and a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern once more on each skewer.

  4. Arrange your skewers on a serving platter.

  5. Drizzle the skewers with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

  6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Serve right away and enjoy your delicious appetizer!

These Caprese skewers are perfect for parties or as a quick snack. You can make them ahead of time and add the olive oil and balsamic just before serving. They’re sure to be a hit with your guests!

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Chicken Satay

Ready to make some tasty chicken satay? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into strips
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • Bamboo skewers

For the peanut sauce:

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Mix coconut milk, soy sauce, curry powder, turmeric, garlic, and brown sugar in a bowl.

  2. Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

  3. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes.

  4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.

  5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.

  6. For the sauce, whisk all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.

  7. Serve your chicken satay hot with the peanut dipping sauce.

Enjoy your homemade chicken satay! It’s perfect for parties or as a fun family dinner.

Jalapeño Poppers

Get ready to spice up your appetizer game with these tasty jalapeño poppers! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and membranes.

  3. Mix cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  4. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.

  5. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with foil.

  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until peppers are tender and filling is bubbly.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Be careful – they’re hot! These poppers are perfect for game day snacks or any party. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy treat!

Shrimp Cocktail

Ready to wow your guests with a classic appetizer? Let’s make shrimp cocktail!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 small onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and peppercorns
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons horseradish
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions:

  1. Fill a pot with cold water. Squeeze in lemon juice and add the lemon halves, onion, garlic, Old Bay, bay leaf, salt, and peppercorns.

  2. Simmer for 20 minutes. Remove solids and return liquid to a simmer.

  3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Don’t overcook!

  4. Immediately plunge shrimp into ice water to stop cooking.

  5. For the sauce, mix ketchup, horseradish, and smoked paprika in a bowl.

  6. Arrange shrimp on a platter with the cocktail sauce. Enjoy your homemade shrimp cocktail!

Hummus And Pita Chips

Here’s a tasty hummus and pita chips recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 6 pita rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Directions:

  1. Blend chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Add salt to taste.

  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  3. Cut each pita round into 8 triangles. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.

  4. Arrange pita triangles on a baking sheet in a single layer.

  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until crisp and golden brown.

  6. Let the chips cool while you transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.

  7. Serve your homemade hummus with the warm pita chips and enjoy!

You can customize your hummus by adding toppings like diced cucumber, tomatoes, or a sprinkle of paprika.

Potato Skins

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 4 medium russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wash and dry the potatoes.

  2. Poke holes in the potatoes with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and salt.

  3. Bake the potatoes for 50-60 minutes until tender. Let them cool for 10 minutes.

  4. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out most of the inside, leaving a thin layer.

  5. Mix melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.

  6. Brush the potato skins with the seasoned butter mixture.

  7. Place the skins on a baking sheet, skin side up. Bake for 10 minutes.

  8. Flip the skins over and bake for another 5 minutes until crispy.

  9. Add cheese and bacon to each skin. Bake for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.

  10. Top with green onions and serve hot. Enjoy your tasty potato skins!

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Spring Rolls

You’ll need these ingredients for tasty spring rolls:

  • Rice paper wrappers
  • Rice noodles
  • Cooked shrimp, sliced in half
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Cucumber, cut into thin strips
  • Carrots, cut into thin strips
  • Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil)
  • Bean sprouts

Here’s how to make them:

  1. Soften a rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 10 seconds.

  2. Place the wrapper on a clean, damp towel.

  3. Layer ingredients in the center of the wrapper: lettuce, noodles, shrimp, veggies, and herbs.

  4. Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides.

  5. Roll tightly from the bottom up, like a burrito.

  6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

For a yummy dipping sauce, mix:

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Water to thin

Whisk all sauce ingredients together until smooth. Serve your fresh spring rolls with the sauce on the side. Enjoy your light and healthy appetizer!

Cheese Plate

You’ll need:

  • A variety of cheeses (3-5 types)
  • Crackers or sliced baguette
  • Fresh fruits (grapes, apple slices, figs)
  • Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • Honey or jam
  • Cured meats (optional)

Directions:

  1. Choose your cheeses. Pick a mix of soft, semi-soft, and hard cheeses.

  2. Arrange the cheeses on a large board or platter. Space them out evenly.

  3. Add crackers or sliced bread around the cheeses.

  4. Fill in gaps with fresh fruits and nuts.

  5. Place small bowls of honey or jam on the board.

  6. If using, add some cured meats like prosciutto or salami.

  7. Provide cheese knives for soft cheeses and a regular knife for hard ones.

  8. Let the cheeses come to room temperature before serving.

Your cheese plate is ready! It’s perfect for parties or a fun night in with friends.

Fried Calamari

You’ll need:

  • 1 pound cleaned squid or calamari
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Cut the squid bodies into 1/2-inch rings. Leave the tentacles whole.

  2. Soak the squid in buttermilk for 30 minutes in the fridge.

  3. Mix flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in a bowl.

  4. Heat oil to 375°F in a deep fryer or heavy pot.

  5. Drain the squid and coat it in the flour mixture.

  6. Fry the squid in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

  7. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  8. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Your crispy fried calamari is ready to enjoy! It’s perfect as a starter for your next dinner party or a tasty snack.

Mini Quiches

You’ll love these adorable mini quiches! They’re perfect for parties or brunch. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 package refrigerated pie crust
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional fillings: bacon, spinach, mushrooms

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray a mini muffin tin with cooking spray.

  2. Use a 3-inch cookie cutter to cut circles from the pie crust. Press them into the muffin cups.

  3. Whisk together the eggs, cream, cheese, salt and pepper in a bowl.

  4. Spoon the egg mixture into the crusts, filling about 3/4 full.

  5. Add any optional fillings you like.

  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and set.

  7. Let cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin.

Enjoy your tasty mini quiches! They’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Spanakopita

Ready to make some tasty Greek spinach pies? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package phyllo dough
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Directions:

  1. Sauté the onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

  2. Mix in the spinach and cook until wilted. Let it cool, then squeeze out excess liquid.

  3. Combine spinach mixture with feta, dill, eggs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  4. Lay out a sheet of phyllo and brush with melted butter. Top with another sheet and brush again.

  5. Cut the phyllo into strips. Place a spoonful of filling at one end of each strip.

  6. Fold the corner over to form a triangle. Keep folding until you reach the end of the strip.

  7. Brush the triangles with butter and place on a baking sheet.

  8. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade spanakopita triangles! They’re perfect for parties or as a yummy snack.