I Never Skip 51 Christmas Appetizers Recipes When Hosting

Hosting a crowd can be tricky, but having 51 different options makes it way easier to keep everyone happy. You don’t have to stress over what to put out first or worry if there’s enough for everyone. Some dishes are easy to prep ahead, so you’re not running around at the last minute.

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.

Brats in a Blanket

Sliced sausage wrapped in golden-brown pastry, sprinkled with sesame and poppy seeds. — Brats in a Blanket. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hosting Christmas gatherings isn’t complete without comfort foods that guests can enjoy while mingling. Brats in a Blanket bring a fun twist to a holiday gathering, combining handheld ease with bold flavors that fit the season’s mood. These bite-sized favorites are perfect to serve while everyone chats and exchanges stories.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Big Mac Pinwheels

Close-up of puff pastry rounds topped with ground meat, shredded lettuce, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce, arranged on parchment paper. — Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Serving appetizers during Christmas is a chance to showcase creativity in foods everyone loves. With Big Mac Pinwheels, you combine familiar flavors with a playful presentation that grabs attention. These versatile bites are easy to share while people connect over holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Pinwheels

Egg Roll

A wooden tray with spring rolls and lime wedges lined with parchment paper sits next to a small bowl of dipping sauce on a light surface. — Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

An appetizer spread at Christmas needs variety, including options that bring bold textures to the table. Egg Roll is a crispy and flavorful bite that balances perfectly with other appetizers on a holiday plate. Guests will appreciate its unique addition, making it stand out among standard options.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll

Whipped Feta Dip

A bowl of creamy dip garnished with chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, rosemary, olive oil, and black pepper. — Whipped Feta Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Something creamy yet shareable always finds its way into Christmas hosting. Whipped Feta Dip delivers a smooth, flavorful experience that pairs well with other holiday bites. The richness of this dip is ideal for building a welcoming holiday appetizer spread. It’s always a great addition when you want to keep options versatile and crowd-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta Dip

Big Mac Sliders

Two sloppy joe sliders with melted cheese and ground beef filling stacked on a plate, with lettuce and a bowl in the background. — Big Mac Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

On Christmas, serving sliders adds a casual but enjoyable touch to group gatherings. Big Mac Sliders bring a recognizable flavor package that guests love while offering easy portions for sharing. They’re a bold choice that fits the fun atmosphere of holiday get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sliders

Crack Chicken Dip

Cracker with creamy dip featuring bacon bits and green onions being lifted from a dish. — Crack Chicken Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spreading holiday joy often happens over rich and indulgent appetizers. Crack Chicken Dip brings a flavorful punch to the table that complements other vibrant dishes during Christmas hosting. It’s inviting, making guests return for a second scoop while chatting about the season.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip

Charcuterie Board

A holiday appetizer table needs something that leaves room for creativity and conversation. Charcuterie Board works perfectly for Christmas hosting, offering variety and a touch of sophistication guests enjoy. It allows everyone to choose their favorites while making the food table look visually inviting.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Cowboy Sliders

A close-up of sliders filled with cooked ground beef, melted cheese, bacon, and sliced jalapeños on a white surface, with some jalapeño slices scattered nearby. — Cowboy Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Hosting Christmas leads to finding dishes that create memorable moments while keeping the crowd happy. Cowboy Sliders offer a bold mix of flavors packed into bite-sized portions that are perfect for holiday gatherings. These sliders fit the energy of lively conversations and shared holiday vibes.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Sliders

Taco Dip

Glass bowl with layered dip topped with guacamole, sliced jalapeños, black olives, and tomatoes. A tortilla chip is dipping into the bowl. — Taco Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A table set for Christmas appetizers always benefits from something light and easy to enjoy. Taco Dip delivers layers of flavor that pair well with other dishes while keeping guests interacting over shared bowls. It’s a quick but impactful addition that works great in a casual or laid-back hosting style. The variety in dips always makes it a popular holiday choice.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip

Pita Bread

For Christmas hosting, simple yet versatile options add depth to your appetizer list. Pita Bread acts as a great companion for dips and spreads, letting guests enjoy every bite while staying light for the next course. Its handheld ease makes it a natural fit for busy holiday parties.
Get the Recipe: Pita Bread

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.

Hosting Christmas isn’t just about creating plates; it’s about keeping things flavorful and fun. Rotel Dip is a quick party addition that pairs well with chips at gatherings, especially with how easy it is to share and enjoy. Its bold flavor sits well on your appetizer table and keeps guests interested throughout the evening.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Zucchini Boats

Zucchini Boats offer fun presentation mixed with a tasty bite, rounding out the other hearty dishes on your table. Guests enjoy the fresh touch these bring to the mix without overpowering everything else. These creative options show balance in holiday hosting efforts and keep crowds happy.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Boats

Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate. — Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Holiday appetizers take on a different meaning when they include something fresh and light. Rice Paper Rolls step away from heavier dishes, offering clean flavors while letting guests enjoy something outside traditional options. Its unique appeal blends well with crowd favorites and fills out your table.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Cheese ball shaped like a pumpkin with a green stem, coated in crumbled topping, surrounded by herbs and decorative pumpkins on a wooden surface. — Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hosting Christmas comes with opportunities to make dishes that stand out visually while tasting great. Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball becomes an instant focal point on your table, sparking conversation with guests while they snack. Beyond its look, it’s a rich option that pairs well with crispy snacks on hand.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls. — Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Around Christmas time, serving warm appetizers brings cozy feelings everyone connects with. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls are a flavorful option guests enjoy, giving just the right amount of spice to break the everyday pattern. They’re easy to share on the table and pair well with other meal items.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

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.

Christmas hosting means finding ways to make classics stand out with slight twists. Crostini Appetizers offer simplicity in presentation while diving into endless flavor combinations that go with holiday spreads. Guests love how easy these are to grab while mingling around the party setups.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy. — Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone loves bite-sized appetizers during Christmas parties because they’re fun and easy to enjoy. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots grab attention with bold flavors and a unique look that guests remember. They pack just the right punch without going overboard while fitting the lively style of holiday gatherings. Small bites like these are playful additions to the table.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Nachos are a go-to for appetizers when Christmas hosting gets casual and connected. Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos bring comfort and easy sharing, setting the relaxed tone people expect in friendly settings. They make holiday planning simpler, ensuring a good balance with other offerings.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe

A bowl of crispy portobello mushroom fries with dipping sauce. — Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Offering variety during Christmas lets guests enjoy different textures side by side. Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe adds an earthy balance to hearty dishes usually seen during holiday hosting. These fried bites provide a crisp profile while being easy for guests to grab without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Portobello Mushroom Fries Recipe

Loaded Potato Skins

Casual hosting needs familiar dishes that bring heartiness while staying fun. Loaded Potato Skins align perfectly with any Christmas event, offering comfort-based goodness guests enjoy every year. They’re like a small holiday feast packed into a bite, making hosting dynamic yet easy.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Garlic Knots

Garlic Knots bridge the gap between familiar and special, fitting seamlessly into holiday gatherings. Guests love their effortless bite and soft texture that complements other party dishes nearby. Whether eaten solo or dipped, they deliver something different for everyone to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Hummus

Great dips amplify other dishes when hosting Christmas dinners or casual events. Hummus fits effortlessly into spreads, helping bridge lighter and heavier options on the table for balance. Guests appreciate items like this that keep things grounded yet flavorful as they explore the rest of your setup.
Get the Recipe: Hummus

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior. — Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bold dips always bring extra appeal to your holiday hosting when done right. Spinach Artichoke Dip becomes that creamy favorite people gather around, adding richness to every bite. This dip creates a perfect grouping point for interactions during busy nights of entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Mozzarella Sticks

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

Mozzarella Sticks are always a hit for their simple, cheesy bite that’s loved by everyone. Guests enjoy how easy they are to snack on without interrupting conversations during your gathering. A classic pick like this keeps the food table engaging and approachable for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Sticks

Pizza Rolls

Appetizers that combine fun and flavor are ideal for Christmas hosting vibes. Pizza Rolls bring interactive ease, letting guests try them right alongside laid-back conversations. These bites keep the table exciting without feeling over-complicated for lighter gatherings. Everybody appreciates easy, delicious options like this during busy holiday moments.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

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.

French Onion Dip offers a perfect balance, combining rich and mellow flavors that pair well with holiday gatherings. It’s always a hit during festive entertaining. You’ll never regret including this dip because it keeps everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Zucchini Fritters

There’s something fun about serving small bites that are light yet full of flavor. Zucchini Fritters are crispy with a soft inside, making them an easy favorite. They complement a variety of spreads and dips you might already have. Guests will appreciate these as they grab one off the plate at the table.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Fritters

Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo brings a vibrant mix that works well on its own or as an enhancer to other dishes. It’s a straightforward addition that feels like a must-have every time. Offering this keeps the Christmas energy lively and uplifting.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Lebanese Baba Ganoush

Uniquely textured options often win the room when hosting. Lebanese Baba Ganoush pairs smoky depth with creamy consistency, making it stand out against other spreads. It’s something extra without overwhelming the rest of the menu. Guests feel the thoughtful inclusion during their seasonal enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus taps into that balance by offering a subtle sweetness and depth. It’s a great conversation starter as people reach for a spreading option they won’t expect. Its unique touch refreshes any traditional appetizer lineup.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background. — Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sliders make gatherings feel easier because everyone loves a handheld bite. Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders combine tender filling packed in soft bread, building necessary flavor without over-complicating anything. People naturally gravitate towards options like this at any gathering. Your Christmas spread becomes even more memorable with these included.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Caramelized Onion Hummus

Having dips that blend into everything makes hosting smoother for people to enjoy casually. Caramelized Onion Hummus ticks those boxes while delivering distinct flavor in every bite. You’ll notice the connection guests make while reaching for it. The addition strengthens your appetizer game without much effort needed.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion Hummus

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions. — Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Immediately captures attention with it’s bold and hearty presence with Buffalo Chicken Dip. It balances comfort food appeal with undeniable richness. Whether scooped up with chips or bread, this finds its place on every appetizer list during Christmas hosting.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onion, roasted red peppers, capers, almonds, and fresh herbs, served with a spoon. — Copycat Chipotle Sofritas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Copycat Chipotle Sofritas can leave your appetizers table feeling incomplete. This recipe packs bold character with every bite, leaving guests surprised at its flair. It’s a standout addition when you want a plant-based option that still feels hearty for the crowd. It’s a versatile offering, perfect for different tastes when hosting holiday parties.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Sofritas

Homemade Corn Dogs

Close-up of a bitten corn dog showing its interior with a layer of crispy fried batter and a hot dog inside. — Homemade Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skipping Homemade Corn Dogs during Christmas gatherings could take away that classic nostalgia people love. This recipe brings a fun, sharable snack that’s sure to please guests of all ages. It pairs whimsy with comfort, making appetizers more exciting for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corn Dogs

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.

Guests know they’re in for a treat when Crunchy Onion Rings show up as part of your festive spread. They add easy fun to the lineup, creating an appetizer that’s simple yet crowd-pleasing. Perfect for dipping and sharing, they fit seamlessly into any gathering, making them a top choice for party hosts.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Pigs in a Blanket

Skipping Pigs in a Blanket for your holiday party could make the appetizers table feel incomplete. This cozy favorite chases away any hosting stress with its simple yet widely liked flavor. Every bite feels playful while still perfect for small holiday bites that don’t complicate hosting.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Few appetizers for hosting compare to the appeal of Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders on your spread. These sliders balance hearty and shareable, making them a natural fit for holiday gatherings. Their combination creates a bite-sized offering everyone can enjoy without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Garlic Bread

Guests love the addition of Garlic Bread to the table, especially during holiday hosting. It’s a straightforward choice that caters to everyone while balancing simplicity and big flavor. Perfect for pairing, this appetizer sets the tone for an inviting spread. By including it, you offer something comforting and reliable that fits seamlessly into your hosting needs.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

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.

For appetizer spreads that stand out, Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls deliver bold flavor. Their unique combination offers excitement along with shareable bites that guests enjoy. They’re a conversation starter that feels indulgent but effortless to enjoy. Adding them makes hosting feel transformed.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese 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.

Christmas appetizers feel incomplete without Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites on the table. These bring an unforgettable mix of comfort and excitement that stands out every time. Guest favorites like this always add energy and conversation to holiday spreads. Serving these feels just right for maintaining fun while hosting a memorable party.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

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.

Without Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers it is hard to imagine for those who love bold and sharable bites. These combine smoky and spiced flavors in a way that’s easy to grab and enjoy. They’re perfect for balancing playful appetizers with something more packed with personality.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background. — Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding Meatball Sliders to your holiday party ensures there’s something hearty amid the appetizers. These have the perfect size and flavor to keep guests excited without needing traditional entrees. While they feel satisfying, they balance being sharable for spending time enjoying bites over conversation.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate. — Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No gathering feels complete without festive bites like Mini Tacos on the appetizers table. These playful options mix sharable with flavor-packed fun that guests look forward to during parties. They quickly become a favorite among those who enjoy more customizable snacks at holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tacos

Italian Sub Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheel sandwiches filled with spinach, cream cheese, red peppers, and herbs, neatly stacked and garnished with parsley. — Italian Sub Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Holiday gatherings work best with versatile spreads, including Italian Sub Pinwheels for variety. Their quick bites match casual hosting while still feeling neatly prepared for holiday energy. Whether guests want something filling or just flavorful, these hit the mark perfectly. It’s a choice that shows you’re thinking about every appetite in the room when hosting.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

Cowboy Queso Dip

A tortilla chip is dipped into a skillet of cheesy ground beef and tomato dip, with melted cheese stretching between the chip and the dip. — Cowboy Queso Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few appetizer choices deliver flair and shareability as well as Cowboy Queso Dip does for holiday parties. Its bold presence always adds liveliness to gatherings, making sure guests remain around the appetizers table. Perfect for dipping and pairing, it fits beautifully into Christmas hosting spreads.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Queso Dip

Antipasto Skewers

Guests appreciate variety when appetizers like Antipasto Skewers make an appearance on your table. They’re compact and shareable, featuring a medley that gets everyone curious to try them. You get something neatly presented without compromising boldness for a holiday spread with these.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Copycat Savvy Slider

A hamburger with cheese and lettuce on it. — Copycat Savvy Slider. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Serve Copycat Savvy Slider to show your hosting choices aim to offer crowd-pleasing bites. These sliders deliver just-right portions with flavors that satisfy countless tastes. They fill a gap in any appetizers spread without complicating your setup or menu. For hosts wanting quick, enjoyable additions to the party table, these never go unnoticed.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Savvy Slider

Sausage Pinwheels

Close-up of several baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with minced meat, arranged on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. — Sausage Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Includes playful and filling treats that guests love reaching for, such as Sausage Pinwheels. Their rolled structure feels fun for Christmas gatherings without taking away from bold flavor. They keep appetizer spreads balanced while maintaining a level of festive energy in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Pinwheels

Popcorn Chicken

Keep the appetizers lively with bite-sized fun for all kinds of holiday gatherings with Popcorn Chicken. These easy-to-share pieces fit into casual conversations and festive celebrations equally well. Guests reach for this no-fuss staple, appreciating its comfort and timeless feel at events. It’s an item that makes Christmas hosting smoother without losing appeal.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

7 Layer Dip

Spreads featuring 7 Layer Dip show a host’s readiness to offer variety in shareable bites during holiday parties. Layered options like these always excite crowds looking for sharable dipping fun. Their easy pairings with other table items ensure the spread feels complete without being repetitive.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

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.