20 Easy 3 Ingredient Appetizers for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving

During holidays like Thanksgiving, oven space is at a premium and time is limited. That’s why we stick to simple starters that provide big flavor without adding stress to your holiday preparations. These 20 easy appetizers can be made with just three ingredients each, making them perfect for grazing guests, hungry helpers, or last-minute additions to your menu.
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bacon wrapped dates
food addict
“Sometimes I use blue cheese, and sometimes I use goat cheese. Both are delicious. Goat cheese has a milder flavor, so many people seem to prefer it.” —Lori J
Easy cheese pinwheel with 3 ingredients
“This is the perfect finger food for any party. It’s so quick and easy to make. All you need is puff pastry, cheese, and herbed cream cheese.” —Super Chef
Sausage stuffed mushrooms II
“This is such a delicious recipe! And it’s so easy! Everyone loved it. I didn’t make any changes to the original recipe. Thanks for sharing!” –Rachel
bacon wrapped smokies
Dodash Meredith Food Studio
“I make this exact recipe with the addition of 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper. It’s always a big hit, but I’ve never heard anyone say it’s too spicy. It gives it just a touch of heat that complements the sweetness and flavor. I also use parchment paper.” —Donald
olive puff
“I made it according to the recipe. It’s so delicious and so easy! I add grated cheese and I make it again and again. It’s so easy that I just cut the olives, drain them, and have my husband roll them up and bake them for me. It keeps my kids and spouse busy while they wander around me in the kitchen :)” —LAW
Tostone (fried plantains)
dotdash meredith food studio
These fried plantains are a Latin American specialty and are perfect for a light appetizer or side dish. For a crispy outside, make sure the plantains are completely dry before frying them a second time.
sausage and cream cheese pinwheels
All Recipes / Julia Hartbeck
“I made this with leftover bacon and it was delicious… I used wax paper to mix the cheese and meat together and added my favorite spices ❤️” — Formato
Lightly toasted mozzarella sticks
Freeze the sticks for a few hours after breading to prevent the cheese from oozing out of the shell in the oven. Serve with marinara sauce and ranch for dipping.
ham roll
“It’s a staple in our family, along with Knorr spinach dip and warm bread.” —Oregon Dawn
lolo ritz sandwich
All Recipes/Julia Hartbeck
“These are a 1970s two-ingredient sensation that come together in minutes.” —Robin Shreeves
magic pickle dip
sarah haas
Softened cream cheese, diced dill pickles, and thinly sliced dried beef combine to create a tangy dip that’s perfect for crackers or bagel chips.
easy appetizer meatballs
Brown spicy pork meatballs and add them to the slow cooker with frozen concentrated orange juice to create a sweet-sour glaze.
Salami, cream cheese and peperoncini roll-ups
“These are so easy and fun to make with my daughter. They’re made with very accessible ingredients so we almost always have them on hand. They’re perfect for last-minute appetizers or gatherings with family and friends. They’re a great combination of salty and creamy spicy flavors. We make them often.” —Mary Lou
lunch mix saltine crackers
I’ve made this many times, and it’s also delicious with pretzels or cheese crackers! —Kay
“This is phenomenal! It’s so easy to make and tastes like something you’d pay big bucks for at a specialty store. It’s perfect with wine for adults, but my kids love it too! —Diana Mutsopoulos
sugar spanish peanut
Getty Images
These sugar-coated Spanish peanuts are a delightful addition to any appetizer spread. For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper.
Best Dry Roasted Chickpea Recipes
“I made this for today’s snack. I doubled the recipe and followed the directions to a ‘T’. There is one exception. I added 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder and salt and pepper. Next time I think I’ll add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Still, absolutely delicious! ” —Nana Polly
bacon wrapped peanut butter jalapenos
All recipe members
“It was very delicious. My company also liked it. Next time I’ll try parboiling the bacon a little.” –Karen
Swedish meatballs made with 3 ingredients
Frozen meatballs swim in a sauce made with concentrated beef and mushroom broth and sour cream for a flavorful appetizer. If you prefer, use regular cream of mushroom soup.
Two Ingredient Rotel Bean Dip
All Recipes / Qi Ai
This game day favorite is also perfect for holiday gatherings. Pair with a large platter of fresh vegetable spears and tortilla chips.
2025-10-30 21:00:00



