Having everyone bring something to share changes the excitement of Thanksgiving. With these starters, you’re sure to emerge as the guest everyone will appreciate. Whether you’re heading to a family banquet, friends get-together, or office potluck, these crowd-pleasing apps will deliver big flavor without the hassle.
From brie wrapped in buttery puff pastry to bite-sized sausage balls and spiced pecans, every dish here is designed to impress before the main course even hits the table. Grab a platter, save some counter space, and prepare to see your donation go away first.
deviled egg
Dodash Meredith Food Studio
“These deviled eggs are delicious and always a hit at holiday parties,” says recipe creator Suzanne EE. The creamy mayo filling contains chopped onions and celery, adding crunch and flavor to this classic appetizer. Sprinkle with paprika to create a nostalgic atmosphere.
chef john’s cheese sticks
Photographer: Bree Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schoolley
“These twisted cheese sticks are easy and cheesy,” says Chef John. “This super easy recipe uses frozen puff pastry, so you don’t have to make any dough.”A buttery, flaky, golden-brown snack that’ll be gone before you can serve the marinara.
Appetizing stuffed mushrooms
dotdash meredith food studio
“There’s no leftovers, and my young son loves this flavorful stuffing,” says home cook Stephanie G. These delicious appetizers are little umami bombs stuffed with herbs and cheese and baked until tender that are sure to impress at any gathering.
Glazed Spicy Cinnamon Pecans
Photographer: Bree Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schoolley
An irresistible snack that combines sweetness and heat. One reviewer raved, “I love how easy this recipe is to make.” “Add them to your Thanksgiving appetizer list this year.” These candied pecans provide a comforting crunch that’s perfect for the season.
sausage balls
meredith food studio
Three ingredients, endless applause. “Flavorsome sausage, store-bought biscuit mix, and sharp cheddar cheese come together for a great taste,” says recipe creator Stephanie. Golden and cheesy, it’s the first thing guests reach for, whether it’s brunch, game day, or holiday night.
best cheese balls
Photographer: Bree Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schoolley
“This was my first attempt at making cheese balls, and they were so easy and so delicious,” says reviewer Terry McHugh. This creamy, crowd-favorite appetizer wrapped in herbs and nuts proves that a little retro vibe never goes out of style.
Baked brie stuffed with cranberries and walnuts
Photographer: Bree Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schoolley
“This is the easiest and most delicious dish to serve as an appetizer,” says community member Sheila Grace Ferguson. Wrapped in flaky pastry, this brie bakes into a melt-in-the-mouth masterpiece. When you cut into it and the cheese and cranberries ooze out, there’s a round of applause.
savory pumpkin hummus
Photographer: Bree Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schoolley
“I made this to take to Thanksgiving…it was a huge hit,” says cookinformygang. With a hint of pumpkin flavor and warm spices, this creamy hummus brings a fall vibe to a classic dip. Serve with crackers and vegetables and watch it disappear.
cranberry brie bites
ALLRECIPES / Anacadena
“These cranberry brie are an appetizer that will wow your guests,” says Julie Hubert. Zesty cranberries, creamy brie, and crunchy walnuts combine in a buttery puff pastry. It is an elegant and mysterious dish that can be eaten in one bite. You can also prepare it in advance.
prosciutto and parmesan cheese pinwheel
All Recipes / Qi Ai
“I’ve made this decadent appetizer twice and everyone loved it both times,” says reviewer DNYGARD. Light, flaky pastry is wrapped around salted prosciutto and Parmesan to create a sophisticated and rich bite-sized treat without the fuss.
best mushroom pate
All Recipes / Qi Ai
“It’s a really great dish. It’s delicious hot or cold,” says Kim. This vegetarian-friendly spread combines earthy mushrooms and toasted walnuts for a hearty, flavorful patty that’s divine when served over crostini. Or, make it even more fancy by tucking it into puff pastry.
feta cheese foldover
Photographer: Jason Donnelly / Food Styling: Shannon Goforth / Prop Styling: Kristen Schooley
“Anyone can look like a caterer with this!” says DigetyDoggie. Crispy, buttery pastry is complemented by tangy feta and fresh herbs for a Mediterranean appetizer that’s easy to assemble and yet impressive on a plate.
cape cod cocktail meatballs
All Recipes / Julia Hartbeck
“These cocktail meatballs are perfect for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or any other party where you want to make an impression,” says Robin Mishral Yury. Braised in a sweet-sour cranberry glaze, they’re festive, flavorful, and destined to disappear in no time.
slow cooker cocktail smokies
dotdash meredith food studio
“This little smokie recipe is so easy to make in the slow cooker as a party appetizer,” says Marina Breeding Heart Morris. Just add the ingredients, boil, and serve. It’s a dish that every host loves because it’s low-effort, high-reward, and easy to make.
Best spinach dip ever
All Recipes/Julia Hartbeck
“My dad’s spinach dip recipe,” says recipe submitter Shauna. “The whole family loves this flavorful spinach mix in a delicious bread bowl.” Creamy, garlicky, and scoopable, this nostalgic dip is the ultimate holiday crowd-pleaser.
2025-10-31 16:00:00
