29 Appetizers That Make You Look Like You Know What You’re Doing

Parties, dinners, and small get-togethers all start the same way—with something to snack on. The first bites set the mood and get people talking. A good starter can make the whole meal feel special. Even something simple can leave a strong first impression. That’s where 29 appetizers that make you look like you know what you’re doing come in.

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crostini Appetizers

Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, capers, cheese, walnuts, and herbs on a decorative silver tray.
Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crisp and small bites that surprise with every taste, these are a crowd-pleaser. Crostini Appetizers provide a perfect platform for endless topping possibilities. Easy to assemble and delicious in appearance, they make an immediate visual impact. Your guests will appreciate the crunch paired with the flavorful toppings.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Avocado Toast

Various avocado toasts with toppings including cherry tomatoes, fried eggs, black olives, and feta cheese on a parchment-lined surface.
Avocado Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A trendy and perfect beginning to any meal, Avocado Toast is both nutritious and delicious. The creamy avocado base is perfect for adding hints of your favorite spices and ingredients. Simple to make and always a favorite, it adds flair to the appetizer lineup. Suitable for both casual and more formal dining experiences.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Toast

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Experience the warm and balanced flavors with Italian Pasta with Salami. Think of pasta combined with slices of salami and fresh hints of herbs. This dish is not only easy to prepare but will surely charm your taste palate. Enjoy the slight chewiness of the pasta contrasting with the velvety ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bold and irresistible, Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos make for an unforgettable appetizer. Layered with tender chicken and spicy buffalo sauce, they are a hit at any party. Melting cheese and other additions create a rich, multi-layered bite. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a kick in their snacks. Quick to make and even quicker to disappear from the plate.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center.
Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Impress guests with the unique and visually appealing Mini Hasselback Potatoes. The thinly sliced potatoes open like delicate fans, making them crispy and full of flavor. Each bite-sized piece is perfect for grabbing and enjoying at parties. These appetizers are as delicious to look at as they are to eat. With various toppings, they never fail to leave an impact.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A mix of textures and flavors makes 7 Layer Dip a must-have item on the appetizer table. Each layer provides a unique addition, creating a mouth-watering combination. It is easy to put together and can be served with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks. Always a hit, it is impressive with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A blend of spicy and creamy, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel rolls are incredibly addictive. The spiral design is not just visually appealing but delivers a punch with each bite. It’s easy to make and serves perfectly at any casual or formal party. Guests will appreciate the balance of heat and creaminess. You will enjoy creating these as much as sharing them.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Meaty and fulfilling, Sausage Balls stand out as a hearty appetizer. Each bite offers a pleasant combination of flavors that are easy to love. Preparing them is straightforward, and serving is even more enjoyable. Perfect for game days or casual get-togethers. They are quick to disappear, leaving guests longing for more.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A bowl of golden-brown, crispy fried arancini served in a white dish on a plain background.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring excitement to your appetizers with Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. These spicy and flavorful bites are wrapped in a delicate crust. They make for a great conversation starter while being incredibly delicious. Your guests will crave more of their kick and delicious texture. Perfect for showing off your appetizer skills at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Loaded Potato Skins

Close-up of loaded potato skins topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and sliced green onions on a white background.
Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Everyone loves a good starter, and Loaded Potato Skins are among the best. With a mix of cheese, bacon, and a touch of green, they are both tasty and eye-catching. These skins are easy to prepare and offer a great appetizer option. With every bite, the creamy and crispy elements combine perfectly. Your guests will definitely be asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips.
Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Get ready for some fun with a creamy and cheesy dip that’s always a hit. Rotel Dip is perfect for gatherings and makes snacking exciting. The blend of flavors creates something truly enjoyable. Pair it with your favorite chips or veggies to complete the experience. Everyone will be coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Cranberry Brie Bites

A tray of cranberry brie bites with walnut topping.
Cranberry Brie Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tiny bites with a burst of flavor that are just right for sharing. Cranberry Brie Bites mix sweetness with tanginess in little servings. They’re easy to put together and look great on any appetizer tray. These bites will have your guests reaching for another. Perfect for any occasion that needs a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Close-up of beef and cheese sliders with toasted buns on a white surface.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mini sandwiches packed with the taste of a full cheesesteak. Philly Cheesesteak Sliders offer a fun and delicious snack option. The juicy and flavorful beef combined with melty cheese makes them irresistible. Great for sharing and sure to be a favorite. They bring the comfort of a cheesesteak into a bite-sized party treat.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A mix of flavors and textures that feels fresh and tasty. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad adds a sweet and nutty twist to classic chicken salad. Perfect for a light and easy appetizer. Serve it on crackers or in lettuce cups for a delicious bite. It’s something different that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Party Crostini

Slices of toasted bread stacked together.
Party Crostini. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Toasty and crunchy bites topped with a variety of flavors. Party Crostini are versatile and can be made to suit any taste. They’re easy to prepare and look great on the table. These tasty little treats are perfect for mingling. You won’t have any leftovers with these around.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

French Onion Dip

Bowl of creamy dip topped with chopped chives and black pepper, next to pieces of toasted bread.
French Onion Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and rich, adding a touch of comfort to your snacking. French Onion Dip has the classic flavors everyone loves. Perfect for dipping with chips, veggies, or bread. This dip will be a hit at any gathering. It’s an easy way to bring great taste to your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Flavorful and aromatic, making any meal feel special. Garlic Bread is a tried-and-true favorite for appetizers. Toasted to perfection with garlicky goodness, it’s ideal for sharing. Pair it with your favorite dips or enjoy it on its own. Guests will appreciate this delicious and simple treat.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Mozzarella Sticks

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese.
Mozzarella Sticks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, always a crowd pleaser. Mozzarella Sticks are a fun and easy appetizer that everyone loves. The melted cheese combined with a crispy exterior is simply delicious. Serve them with marinara sauce for extra flavor. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Sticks

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy and tasty bites that pack a punch. Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers combine different flavors in one tasty treat. The crispy bacon adds a nice touch to the spicy jalapenos. These poppers are perfect for mingling and are sure to impress. Everyone will be asking for more of these fiery snacks.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Crispy Rice

A stack of crispy rice topped with a dollop of white sauce, red sauce, and sliced green onions, with a blurred dish of green garnishes in the background.
Crispy Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Delicious bites that are light and crunchy. Crispy Rice makes for an interesting and flavorful appetizer. Easy to prepare and great for sharing. Top it with different flavors for a unique experience. It’s a versatile option that guests will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

Roast Beef Sliders

Close-up of a fork lifting a beef sandwich topped with sesame seeds on a soft bun, with more sandwiches in the background.
Roast Beef Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a party treat that feels special, mini sandwiches packed with roast beef will impress. Add some horseradish sauce, and Roast Beef Sliders will disappear fast. Everyone appreciates the rich, hearty flavors in a convenient bite. Get creative with toppings to keep things interesting. Guests will ask for the recipe!
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders

Jalapeno Poppers

Baked jalapenos on a plate with dipping sauce.
Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Want to spice things up. Filled with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon, Jalapeno Poppers bring a welcome kick to any event. They’re crunchy, spicy, and a little bit indulgent. Ideal for anyone who loves a bit of heat. Serve them up and watch them disappear.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, simple flavors really shine. That’s where Ham and Cheese Sliders come in. Kids and adults both will love these. They’re warm, cheesy, and just a bit comforting. Perfect for making everyone feel at home. Great for any type of gathering looking to serve crowd-pleasers.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli in a mixing bowl with a spoon in it, garlic cloves, and dill around it.
Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pair your appetizers with something a bit different like Garlic Aioli. This dip is creamy, garlicky, and perfect for adding extra flavor. Use it with veggies, meats, or even onion rings. It’s a versatile addition to your appetizer spread. Guests will love trying it with different foods.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Salmon Deviled Eggs

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background.
Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Traditional deviled eggs get an upgrade with a touch of salmon. Salmon Deviled Eggs are perfect for impressing your guests. They’re creamy, flavorful, and just a bit fancy. Make them ahead to save time on the big day. Everyone will appreciate the unique twist on a classic.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Little sausages wrapped in bacon are always a hit. Bacon Wrapped Smokies are easy to make and even easier to eat. Serve them with a few dipping sauces for extra variety. Perfect for any occasion where you want to impress. They will be gone in a flash!
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a tasty treat, these mini sandwiches are hard to beat. Filled with Italian meats and cheeses, Italian Sliders are sure to be a favorite. They’re easy to make and even easier to eat. Perfect for any get-together where you want to impress. Offering a variety of different sliders will keep everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Need a fun and tasty appetizer, combining bacon and jalapenos in Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls makes them a winner. Perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies, this appetizer packs a punch. Make them ahead of time for easy entertaining. Guests will find these hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic and loved by all, onion rings are always a great choice. Crunchy Onion Rings bring a perfect crisp to your table. They’re easy to make and easy to enjoy. Pair them with some dipping sauces for extra fun. Perfect for any gathering where you want people to have a good time.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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