29 Appetizers That Instantly Upgrade Any Dinner Plan

Skip the sad bowl of chips and call in some real reinforcements. These 29 appetizers set the stage for a dinner that actually feels planned. Some are quick, some take a little effort, but all of them get people reaching for seconds. No one will even ask when dinner’s ready because they’re too busy eating.

Crostini Appetizers

Crostini Appetizers are perfect for kicking off your dinner plans. They’re light enough to not spoil your appetite but packed with personality. You can easily customize them to suit anyone’s preference. They always seem to be the first to disappear from the appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Maryland Crab Cake

A good Maryland Crab Cake brings big seafood flavor in a small, crispy package. It’s the kind of appetizer that makes dinner feel fancy without the effort. You get all the good stuff packed into each bite, and they always disappear fast. Serve them up with your favorite dip, and you’ve got a hit.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

If dinner is feeling a little plain, Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos will fix that. Layers of crispy chips, cheesy goodness, and a kick of heat make them impossible to ignore. They’re the kind of thing people hover around, grabbing more even when they said they were done. Make extra because they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Crunchy Onion Rings

There’s something about Crunchy Onion Rings that makes any meal feel more complete. They’re crispy, crunchy, and just plain fun to eat. Plus, they pair well with a variety of dips. Few can resist grabbing one or two from the serving plate.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Cheese Ball

If you’re looking for something that’s both classic and a crowd-pleaser, go for Cheese Ball. It’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. This appetizer is a hit at any gathering, no matter the crowd. Just don’t be surprised when it’s the center of attention.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

If you want an appetizer that feels fresh but still filling, Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad does the job. It’s got the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, making it great on crackers or by the spoonful. People always think they’ll have just a little, then suddenly the bowl is empty. Serve it up and watch it go.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Chickpea Nuggets

These nuggets are the answer when you need something crunchy that works for everyone. Chickpea Nuggets are crispy, dunkable, and way more fun than they have any right to be. No one ever expects to like them as much as they do. Put out a plate, and they’ll be gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Nuggets

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are small but packed with everything that makes an appetizer worth grabbing. The mix of flavors makes them an instant hit, and they’re just the right size to keep people reaching for more. You could serve these for dinner, but they’re even better when you don’t have to share. Once they hit the table, they won’t last.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Cranberry Brie Bites

If you want an appetizer that feels a little fancy without the work, Cranberry Brie Bites do the trick. The mix of creamy and tangy flavors makes them hard to resist. They look impressive, but they’re secretly one of the easiest appetizers to throw together. Once people take a bite, they’ll be back for another.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

Garlic Bread

There’s no wrong time for Garlic Bread, and dinner always feels better when it’s on the table. It’s golden, crispy, and impossible not to grab a piece. Whether you’re dipping it or just eating it straight, it makes every meal better. Just make sure there’s enough because people will always want more.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

French Onion Dip

French Onion Dip turns any regular snack spread into something people actually get excited about. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and works with anything from chips to veggies. People might pretend they’re just having a little, but they always come back for more. Put out a bowl, and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Ham and Cheese Sliders

These sliders are the kind of appetizer that somehow tastes even better than it looks. They’re cheesy, melty, and just the right amount of crispy. Ham and Cheese Sliders are perfect for grabbing before dinner without feeling like you’re ruining your appetite. Stack them up, and they’ll be gone before you can sit down.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

7 Layer Dip

If you need an appetizer that feeds a crowd without much effort, 7 Layer Dip is your best bet. It’s packed with layers of flavor, and every scoop gives you a little bit of everything. Chips somehow disappear twice as fast when this is on the table. Just be ready for people to hover around the bowl until it’s scraped clean.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Meatball Sliders

Meatball Sliders bring a hearty addition to the table. They’re small enough to eat by hand but filling enough to tide you over. These sliders serve up a classic comfort food vibe. They make it hard to stop at just one.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Watch these Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers disappear as soon as you bring them out. They have a fantastic mix of heat and smoky goodness. Perfect for those who enjoy a little kick with their snack. They’re always a big hit, so make sure you make plenty.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Loaded Potato Skins

There’s more than meets the eye with these Loaded Potato Skins. They’re a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any casual get-together. Easy to pick up and hard to put down, they bring a hearty touch to your appetizer lineup. Trust us, there won’t be any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Chicken Tempura

Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, Chicken Tempura always hits the spot. It’s a versatile appetizer that fits into any dinner plan effortlessly. Bringing a bit of crunch to your meal, it’s hard to have just one. A dipping sauce on the side kicks things up a notch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Steak Fajita Nacho

If you’re looking to mix things up, Steak Fajita Nacho is your go-to. Loaded with flavors and textures, it transforms your ordinary nachos. Perfect for sharing, though you might not want to. Its hearty topping mix makes every bite memorable.
Get the Recipe: Steak Fajita Nacho

Italian Pasta with Salami

It’s not your average pasta dish. Italian Pasta with Salami brings a robust presence to your appetizer offerings. With each bite, you get a taste of Italy. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something both familiar and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Jalapeno Poppers

For those who like a bit of kick, Jalapeno Poppers are the answer. These little guys are the perfect conversation starter. Not too spicy, they strike just the right balance. A batch of these will disappear before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Cheeseburger Sliders

Everyone loves a good mini burger, and Cheeseburger Sliders are no exception. These bite-sized delights are great for any occasion. They pack all the punch of a full-sized burger in a fraction of the size. Hand one to someone and watch their eyes light up.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Baked Brie

Bringing a touch of class to your selection, Baked Brie is a surefire win. It’s surprisingly simple but feels upscale. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, from crisp crackers to fresh fruit. Melted, gooey, and impossible to resist, it’s a hit at any table, no matter the company.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Miss the thrill of dining out? Bring it home with these Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. They’re just as good as the restaurant version, if not better—crispy, cheesy, and packing just the right kick. A side of ranch dressing makes them irresistible, but good luck stopping at just one.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Italian Sliders

Italian Sliders are like a quick trip to Italy, no passport needed. Stacked with flavors, they’re small in size but big on impact. They make for a great snack or a light meal, perfect for parties, game nights, or just because. One bite, and you’re hooked—good luck stopping at just one!
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Caprese Appetizer

A simple yet elegant choice, Caprese Appetizer never disappoints. It’s all about fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. The balance of flavors makes it a crowd favorite. Perfect for a light start to any meal, and it looks just as good as it tastes. It’s effortlessly chic and utterly delicious—because sometimes, simplicity wins.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

When you can’t decide between dips, go for Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. It’s a triple threat: chicken, bacon, and ranch. Perfect for dipping, it’s a must-have at any gathering. Watch it disappear as soon as it hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Bring a little sophistication to your spread with Caprese Pesto Tarts. They’re small, they’re savory, and they’re scrumptious. Each tart is a burst of flavor in your mouth. They’re bound to be a hit with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Charcuterie Board

A Charcuterie Board is like a choose-your-own-adventure book but with food. Offering a variety of options, it caters to all tastes. It’s social, it’s interactive, and it’s fun. Everyone finds something they love, whether they’re here for the classics or just piling up their favorites with no rules.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

If you love a bit of heat, Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls are right up your alley. They’re packed with flavor and have a nice kick to them. They’re perfect for those who love a spicy twist. Plus, they’re an easy grab-and-go option for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls