I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.
Fall is here, bringing crisp air, cozy nights, and the perfect excuse to gather with friends and family. What better way to kick off your autumn gatherings than with some tasty fall appetizers? These easy-to-make snacks will wow your guests and set the mood for a great party.
From savory dips to bite-sized treats, fall appetizers offer a great mix of flavors. Think warm spices, roasted veggies, and seasonal fruits like apples and pumpkins. Whether you’re hosting a game day bash or a fancy dinner party, there’s a perfect appetizer for every occasion. Get ready to impress your guests and make your fall gatherings extra special with these yummy starters!
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
You’ll need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 12 bacon slices, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks
Here’s how to make them:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any yellowed outer leaves.
Wrap each Brussels sprout with a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick.
Place the wrapped sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Mix maple syrup and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl.
Brush the bacon-wrapped sprouts with the maple-balsamic mixture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the sprouts are tender.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
These tasty bites are perfect for your fall gatherings. The crispy bacon pairs wonderfully with the tender Brussels sprouts, creating a delicious appetizer your guests will love.
Jalapeño Poppers
Get ready to spice up your fall gathering with these tasty jalapeño poppers! Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 12 jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and ribs.
Mix the cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, salt, and paprika in a bowl.
Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These poppers are sure to be a hit at your next fall party!
Stuffed Mushrooms
Ready to make a tasty fall appetizer? Try these stuffed mushrooms! They’re easy to whip up and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 24 medium mushrooms
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Chop the stems finely.
In a bowl, mix the chopped stems, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, cream cheese, parsley, and garlic.
Drizzle olive oil over the mushroom caps and season with salt and pepper.
Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture.
Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade stuffed mushrooms! They’re perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy snack on a chilly evening.
Pumpkin Hummus
Ready to make a tasty fall-inspired dip? Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne (optional)
Now, let’s whip up this yummy pumpkin hummus:
Toss the chickpeas, pumpkin, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices into your food processor.
Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water.
Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Scoop the hummus into a bowl and drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
Sprinkle some pumpkin seeds or paprika on top for extra flair.
Serve your pumpkin hummus with pita chips, veggie sticks, or spread it on toast. Enjoy your cozy fall snack!
Baked Brie With Apples
Ingredients:
- 1 wheel of brie (6-8 oz)
- 1 large apple, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Crackers or sliced baguette for serving
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced apple, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the apples are soft.
Place the brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top it with the cooked apple mixture.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the apples. Drizzle with maple syrup.
Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is soft and gooey.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your baked brie with crackers or sliced baguette!
This yummy appetizer is perfect for fall gatherings. The warm, melty cheese pairs so well with the sweet apples and crunchy pecans. Your guests will love it!
Meatball Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make tasty meatball sliders:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Now let’s make these yummy sliders!
Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, and seasonings in a bowl. Form into 12 small meatballs.
Cook the meatballs in an air fryer at 380°F for 12-15 minutes or until they reach 165°F inside.
Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected. Place the bottom half in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Put a meatball on each roll. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Cover with the top half of the rolls. Brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes until the cheese melts and the tops are golden brown.
Serve your meatball sliders warm and enjoy this tasty fall appetizer with friends and family!
Buffalo Chicken Dip
You’re going to love this easy Buffalo Chicken Dip! It’s perfect for game days and fall gatherings. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- Green onions for garnish
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Stir in the buffalo sauce and ranch dressing until well combined.
Add the shredded chicken and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
If using, sprinkle blue cheese and green onions on top before serving.
Serve your dip warm with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or tortilla chips. It’s creamy, spicy, and totally addictive! Your friends will be asking for the recipe.
Antipasto Skewers
Here’s what you’ll need for these tasty skewers:
- Cheese tortellini
- Mozzarella balls
- Salami or pepperoni slices
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olives (black or green)
- Artichoke hearts
- Fresh basil leaves
- Wooden skewers
- Italian dressing
To make your antipasto skewers:
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Cut the mozzarella, salami, and artichokes into bite-sized pieces if needed.
Thread the ingredients onto skewers, alternating colors and textures. Start with a folded salami slice, then add tortellini, mozzarella, tomato, olive, and artichoke.
Tuck basil leaves between some of the ingredients for extra flavor and color.
Arrange your skewers on a platter and drizzle with Italian dressing just before serving.
You can make these up to 24 hours ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or game day snacks!
Fried Mac And Cheese Balls
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mac and cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Chill your leftover mac and cheese in the fridge for 3-4 hours until firm.
Scoop out small balls of the chilled mac and cheese using a cookie scoop or spoon.
Roll the mac and cheese into 1 1/4 to 1 1/2-inch balls with your hands.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Dip each ball in flour, then egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
Fry the balls in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Sprinkle with salt while still hot and serve immediately.
For a healthier option, you can air fry these balls at 350°F for 15 minutes or bake them in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until crispy.
Cream Cheese Ham Roll-Ups
You’ll need:
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 8 dill pickle spears
Here’s how to make them:
Lay out the ham slices on a clean surface.
Mix the softened cream cheese and chopped green onions in a bowl.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on each ham slice.
Place a pickle spear at one end of each ham slice.
Roll up the ham tightly around the pickle, starting from the pickle end.
Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours.
When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap and cut each roll into 4-6 pieces.
Secure each piece with a toothpick if desired.
These roll-ups are perfect for your fall gatherings. They’re easy to make ahead and always a hit with guests!
Sweet Potato Tartlets
You’ll love these tasty sweet potato tartlets for your fall gathering! They’re easy to make and full of autumn flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 small sweet potato
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 12 mini tart shells
Directions:
Peel and chop the sweet potato. Put it in a pot with water and boil until soft.
Drain the sweet potato and mash it in a bowl with the butter, syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sweet potato mix into each tart shell.
Place the filled tarts on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
These little bites are perfect for your fall party. Your guests will love the sweet and spicy flavors!
Roasted Pumpkin Nachos
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 small pumpkin, peeled and diced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Tortilla chips
- Black beans
- Salsa
- Shredded cheese blend
- Optional toppings: green onions, cilantro, hot sauce
Let’s make these tasty nachos!
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Spread the diced pumpkin on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
Roast the pumpkin for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. It should be tender when done.
Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
In a large baking dish, layer half the chips, beans, roasted pumpkin, salsa, and cheese.
Repeat the layers once more.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Add your favorite toppings and enjoy your fall-themed nachos!
These nachos are perfect for game day or a cozy night in. The roasted pumpkin adds a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. You’ll love this twist on a classic snack!
Beer & Cheddar Fondue
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
Now, let’s make some fondue!
Mix the cheese and cornstarch in a bowl. This helps prevent clumping.
Pour the beer into a fondue pot or saucepan. Heat it until it’s gently bubbling.
Add the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard powder to the beer. Stir well.
Slowly add the cheese mixture, stirring constantly. Keep the heat on medium-low.
Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and smooth. This should take about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne for a little kick.
Your fondue is ready! Serve it with chunks of bread, pretzels, or veggies for dipping. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy treat!
Cranberry-Glazed Turkey Meatballs
You’ll need:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Zest of 1 orange
Directions:
Mix turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Form the mixture into small meatballs.
Bake at 375°F for 12-14 minutes until cooked through.
While meatballs bake, mix cranberry sauce, vinegar, syrup, mustard, and orange zest in a saucepan.
Heat the sauce over medium heat until warm.
Once meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and gently toss to coat.
Serve your cranberry-glazed turkey meatballs warm and enjoy!
These tasty meatballs are perfect for fall gatherings. The sweet and tangy cranberry glaze pairs wonderfully with the savory turkey. Your guests will love this festive twist on a classic appetizer!
Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeño Poppers
Ingredients:
- 12 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
Mix cream cheese and cheddar cheese in a bowl.
Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture.
Dip stuffed peppers in beaten eggs, then coat with bread crumbs.
Heat oil to 375°F in a deep fryer or large pot.
Fry peppers in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly before serving.
You can also bake these poppers if you prefer. Just place them on a lined baking sheet and cook at 375°F for about 20 minutes.
For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits or garlic powder to the cheese mixture. You can even use different cheeses like pepper jack for more kick!
Pumpkin & Pesto Crostini
You’ll need:
- 1 small pumpkin, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil leaves
- Baby spinach
- Garlic cloves
- Baguette slices
Here’s how to make it:
Heat your oven to 400°F.
Mix pumpkin and red pepper with some olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and cook for about 25-30 minutes. Stir once halfway through.
While that’s cooking, make your pesto. Blend basil, spinach, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
Toast your baguette slices until they’re nice and crispy.
Once everything is ready, spread some pesto on each piece of bread.
Top with your roasted pumpkin and pepper mix.
Your Pumpkin & Pesto Crostini is ready to serve! These tasty bites are perfect for fall gatherings. The crispy bread, smooth pesto, and warm pumpkin create a yummy mix of textures and flavors.
Garlic Pizza Wedges
Get ready to make a tasty appetizer that’s perfect for fall gatherings! Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Place the pizza crust on an ungreased 14-inch pizza pan.
In a small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, onion, garlic, and oregano.
Spread this mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges turn light brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute.
Cut into wedges and serve warm.
Your garlic pizza wedges are now ready to enjoy! They’re crispy, flavorful, and sure to be a hit at your next fall party.
Ham And Cheese Pinwheels
You’ll love these tasty ham and cheese pinwheels for your fall gathering! They’re easy to make and always a hit with guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 package crescent roll dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 8 slices ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the cream cheese, ranch dressing, and green onions in a bowl.
Unroll the crescent dough on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough.
Layer ham slices on top of the cream cheese. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long edge. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
Cut the roll into 1-inch slices using a sharp knife. Place on the baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Your guests will gobble these up in no time! They’re perfect for munching on while enjoying the crisp fall air.
Loaded Cheese Ball Bites
You’ll love these tasty little appetizers! Here’s what you need to make them:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- Pretzel sticks
Directions:
Mix the cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, green onions, and garlic powder in a bowl.
Form the mixture into small balls using a cookie scoop or spoon.
Roll each ball in the chopped pecans to coat.
Chill the bites in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
Before serving, stick a pretzel into each cheese ball.
Your guests will love these bite-sized treats! They’re perfect for fall gatherings or game day snacks. The creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and crunchy nuts make a delicious combo.
Acorn Squash Salad With Tahini Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
- 1 large acorn squash
- 1 red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 5 ounces mixed baby greens
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- Optional: dried cherries, crumbled goat cheese, slivered almonds
Directions:
Heat your oven to 425°F. Cut the acorn squash in half, remove the seeds, and slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
Toss the squash and sliced onion with olive oil on a baking sheet. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and tender.
While the veggies roast, make the dressing. Mix tahini, lemon juice, and water in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Place the mixed greens in a large bowl. Add the roasted squash and onion on top.
Drizzle the tahini dressing over your salad. If you like, sprinkle on some dried cherries, goat cheese, or almonds for extra flavor and crunch.
Toss everything together and enjoy your tasty fall salad!
Blue Cheese-Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
You’ll need:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
Here’s how to make them:
Mix the chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Form small meatballs and stuff each with a bit of blue cheese.
Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and freeze for 10 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake the meatballs for 18-20 minutes, turning once halfway through.
While they cook, melt butter in a pan and mix with hot sauce.
Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the buffalo sauce.
Your Blue Cheese-Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are ready to serve! They’re perfect for game day or any fall gathering.
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Let’s make these tasty wings!
Heat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
Mix flour, water, garlic powder, paprika, and salt in a bowl. Dip each floret in the batter.
Place coated florets on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes.
While baking, mix buffalo sauce and melted butter.
Take the cauliflower out, brush with the sauce mixture, then bake for 10 more minutes.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Ranch or blue cheese work great!
These wings are perfect for game day or any fall gathering. They’re crispy, spicy, and so good you might forget they’re veggies!
Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts
You’ll love these crispy, cheesy Brussels sprouts! Here’s what you need:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make this tasty appetizer:
Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Spread Parmesan cheese on a baking sheet in an even layer.
Place the sprouts cut-side down on the cheese.
Sprinkle garlic powder over the sprouts.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
The cheese will form a crispy crust on the sprouts. You can easily pick them up and eat them with your fingers. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or as a side dish!
Fall Charcuterie Board
You’ll need these ingredients for a yummy fall charcuterie board:
- 3-4 types of cheese (like cheddar, brie, and gouda)
- Sliced meats (salami, prosciutto)
- Crackers and bread
- Seasonal fruits (apples, pears, figs)
- Nuts (walnuts, pecans)
- Honey or jam
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Here’s how to put it together:
Start with the cheese. Place the larger pieces around the board.
Add meats next, folding or rolling them for a nice look.
Fill in gaps with crackers and bread slices.
Add fruit in small clusters. Slice apples thinly to fan out.
Sprinkle nuts in empty spaces.
Put honey or jam in small bowls on the board.
Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage.
Don’t forget serving utensils for each item!
Your fall charcuterie board is ready to impress your guests. Enjoy the tasty mix of flavors and textures!
Halloween Deviled Eggs
You’ll need:
- 12 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Paprika for sprinkling
Directions:
Boil the eggs for about 12 minutes. Cool them in ice water, then peel.
Cut the eggs in half lengthwise. Scoop out the yolks into a bowl.
Mash the yolks with mayo, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
Sprinkle with paprika for a spooky orange tint.
To make them extra festive, try these fun decorations:
- Use black olive slices for spider bodies
- Add peppercorns for spider eyes
- Pipe the filling to look like pumpkins
- Top with small carrot triangles for jack-o-lantern faces
Your Halloween deviled eggs are ready to serve! They’re sure to be a hit at your next fall gathering.