Christmas Appetizers Ideas With 45 Quick Wins For The Table

Christmas gatherings can get hectic fast, but that’s where 45 appetizer ideas for the table come in handy. These easy appetizers make guests forget they’re waiting for the main course. Every platter disappears faster than wrapping paper on Christmas morning. They keep everyone busy, happy, and less likely to ask when dinner’s ready for the fifth time.

Close-up of sliced cheese coated with mixed herbs and chopped nuts on parchment paper, resembling charming Christmas cheese trees.
Christmas Cheese Trees. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Party trays empty out quick when these little round snacks get passed around during a busy night. Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls always pull people over for seconds and thirds. They’re easy to grab and keep the hands busy. Great for packing up leftovers. Plates always come back empty.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Cranberry Brie Bites

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

Sweet and creamy snacks bring a little brightness to every platter and go fast during holiday gatherings. Serving Cranberry Brie Bites will spark conversation while people reach for more. They work for both fancy and casual nights. No mess with these; napkins might not even be needed. Always a hit with any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

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.

Hearty mini sandwiches disappear from trays in just a few minutes at every get-together. When Cowboy Sliders land on the appetizer table, folks hover until they’re gone. Easy to eat and great warm or cold. They pack up perfect for leftovers. These have guests asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Sliders

Cheese Ball

A cheese ball on a cutting board with crackers.
Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Grab a cracker, pile it high, and dig in when a creamy ball sits in the center of the snack table. Bringing out a Cheese Ball keeps everyone coming back for more. It plays well with any dippers. Simple to move around the party. Always ends up scraped clean by the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball

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.

Mini sandwiches stack high and get snatched off the tray by everyone as soon as guests walk in. Serving up Roast Beef Sliders makes snack time flow smooth. They work for both fancy events or laid-back nights. Stash a few for lunch the next day if you’re lucky. These slide off the plates fast.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skewered bites with vibrant colors bring a pop to your table and everyone reaches for a stick. Sharing Caprese Appetizer gives friends something light and fresh between all the rich finger foods. No mess here and easy to prep. They go well with drinks or as a snack. These rarely leave leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture.
Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone lines up when mini burgers come out warm and stacked on a platter. Grabbing for Cheeseburger Sliders is basically a party tradition at this point. These keep hands clean too. Perfect for all ages and a breeze to reheat. So popular there’s never enough to go around.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spiraled snack bites line up across every appetizer board and vanish as quick as they’re made. Cutting up Pinwheel Sandwiches keeps guests chewing at every event. Easy to pack for lunch the next day too. Pairs up with any dip. You can never make too many.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

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.

Small buns and saucy bites mean everyone gets a sandwich without getting their fingers too messy. Passing out Meatball Sliders ensures happy faces all night. Good for bringing along to share. These warm up nicely for leftovers. Every party gets requests for these again.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers on a serving dish with balsamic glaze drizzled over.
Caprese Skewers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Snack trays look brighter when little sticks full of color get added for dipping or eating plain. Plating Caprese Skewers means there’s always something fresh on the plate. These travel well and pack up for later. They’re simple but always loved. Everyone goes back for one more.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Skewers

Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, pickles, green olives, blue cheese, breadsticks, baguette slices, grapes, a jar of honey, and a round cheese topped with a dollop of jam.
Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

No table is complete without a spread packed with slices, bites, and snacky treats for everyone. Setting out a Charcuterie Board keeps people moving and chatting all night. Every combo is possible when you’ve got choices. Easy to make ahead. These always get shared—sometimes even before dinner starts.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail with peeled shrimp arranged on the rim of a glass filled with cocktail sauce, garnished with parsley.
Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chilled seafood appetizers spark attention and bring something special to the table fast. Serving up Shrimp Cocktail breaks up the regular list of snacks. These look fancy but are so simple. Perfect for passing around at fancy events. Most folks reach for another right after their first one.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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.

Crispy, cheese-filled bites with a little kick make sure everyone circles back to the appetizer corner. Plating up Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites means everyone’s talking while they snack. These go fast at any event. Heat up well for leftovers. Rave reviews every time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Hummus

A bowl of hummus garnished with whole chickpeas, chopped parsley, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Hummus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy dips land in the middle of every party plate and get scooped up with anything from chips to veggies. Spooning up Hummus is a great way for everyone to gather around. Works for all sorts of snackers. Packs into lunch boxes the next day. Always gets refilled before the party is over.
Get the Recipe: Hummus

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.

Bites filled with heat and wrapped up neat are impossible to pass up on any appetizer table. Setting out Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers ensures folks stay near the snack spread. Always a talking point among guests. These travel well for quick drop-ins. Leftovers are rare with this tray.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Several smashed, roasted baby potatoes garnished with herbs and grated cheese are arranged on a baking sheet.
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchy edges and a little salty flavor get everyone munching around snack time. Making Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes means there’s nothing left to reheat. They go with just about everything. Easy to eat without forks. Best eaten fresh, but they’ll probably be gone quick anyway.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

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.

Little links packed into golden snacks mean guests keep circling back for just one more. Pulling apart Brats in a Blanket is the best part of a snack table. They reheat well next day. Perfect for dipping into sauce if that’s your style. Always a favorite, no matter the age.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

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.

A classic gets an upgrade when the filling is packed and topped for something new at a party. Popping a Salmon Deviled Eggs upgrade surprises your friends in a good way. Works as a quick lunch too. Chill them ahead for easy serving. Always gone by the time the main meal starts.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

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.

Warm, cheesy dips with a bit of a kick bring everyone together in the kitchen. Dropping a pan of Rotel Dip on the table always draws a crowd. Don’t expect leftovers unless you hide it. Great with chips or bread. This one’s usually gone before it cools off.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheels filled with a creamy mixture, garnished with herbs, served with bowls of salsa and breadcrumbs.
Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rolled-up party bites mix bold flavor with easy snack power and guests snatch them as soon as they’re served. Cutting up Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels signals snack time has started. They’re easy to hold and eat. Everything packs well for tomorrow’s lunch. These never last through the event.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with cranberry sauce on a platter.
Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy, handheld bites always fill plates without much fuss and people scoop them up by the dozen. Passing around Deviled Eggs means no downtime between guests and snack. They work well for fancy or casual parties. Chill for a few hours for best results. Always remembered once they’re served.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

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.

Toasty bites make snack platters more interesting since anything can go on top of them. Stacking up Crostini Appetizers lets guests build their own favorites. They hold up well without getting soggy. Easy to serve for any crowd size. These get complimented every time.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Party Crostini

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

Tables look sharp with little toasts topped with a mix of goodies for each guest to grab and build. Serving Party Crostini means everyone can try something new. They hold up to any spread or dip. Awesome as an open snack during mingling. Plates come back for extras every round.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

Potato Skins

Potato skins with sour cream and sliced scallions.
Potato Skins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hot bites with a bit of crunch get picked up fast, especially during games or family parties. Handing out Potato Skins keeps snackers happy for hours. Good for reheating. These pair with almost everything. Be sure to make extra, since there’s never enough.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

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.

Rolled sandwiches slice up fast and stack on any party platter for easy snacking. Adding Italian Sub Pinwheels to the table brings lots of flavor without extra mess. Great for prepping ahead. These travel far without getting soggy. Friends always snag the last ones.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

Mozzarella Sticks

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

Crisp, cheesy snacks are always popular for party trays and vanish without a trace. Serving up Mozzarella Sticks means you’ll see people hovering where the food is. These can be microwaved later. Dip in sauce or eat as is. Everyone asks for these every time.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Sticks

Beer Cheese Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into creamy cheese dip sprinkled with paprika and black pepper.
Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm dip with a little bite shows up strong for any event, especially when the snacks just keep coming. Spoonfuls of Beer Cheese Dip make everything better, from veggies to pretzels. Stays scoopable even after it cools off. Quick to prep and pack for gatherings. Party trays empty every round.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip

Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill.
Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crisp bites disappear from plates as soon as trays land in the middle of the appetizer spread. Sharing out Smashed Potatoes means hands reach fast for seconds. They taste just as good at room temp. Works as a side too. Always remembered by guests.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes

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.

Spirals full of flavor keep hands busy and plates coming back for more at the start of any meal. Cutting up Sausage Pinwheels is a clever way to share something filling. Packs up great for home. Reheat with no trouble. These will always be popular with groups.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Pinwheels

Baked Brie

A baked brie with walnuts and thyme, with a jar of honey next to it.
Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gooey and rich, this soft treat makes a sweet and creamy centerpiece for every table. Slicing into Baked Brie gets everyone hovering around the appetizer board. Spreads onto bread or crackers so easy. Great served warm for best results. Always empty by the end of the party.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie

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.

Crunchy cups packed with creamy filling make it impossible for people not to circle the food table twice. When Loaded Potato Skins show up, every hand grabs one. These are good warm or at room temp. No trouble packing extras for later. Crowd favorite status locked in.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Antipasto Skewers

A plate of antipasto skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, artichoke hearts, cured meats, and a drizzle of green pesto.
Antipasto Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sticks full of tangy, savory bites keep party trays moving while everyone chats and picks up something new. Lining up Antipasto Skewers means more variety and less mess. They pack up for road trips. Looks great on snack tables. Everyone grabs a few when they wander by.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Caprese Candy Cane

A plate with tomatoes, basil and bread on it.
Caprese Candy Cane. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright snacks with a fun shape make the table inviting and get snapped up faster than expected. Making a Caprese Candy Cane side brings a bit of color to snack time. It’s quick to set up for guests. Kids love the shape. Most people ask for you to make it next time.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Candy Cane

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.

Thin sliced minis get crispy edges and soft centers, making for snack trays that end up empty quick. Placing Mini Hasselback Potatoes on a platter is always a talking point. These reheat without getting soggy. Easy to portion for big crowds. Always need to make extras.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Mini Goat Cheese Balls

Goat cheese balls on a wooden cutting board.
Mini Goat Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy bites rolled up small bring something different to snack tables, especially next to crackers. Sharing Mini Goat Cheese Balls makes finger food feel a bit special. Holds up great on a buffet. Packs easy for later. Most people will grab seconds without asking.
Get the Recipe: Mini Goat Cheese Balls

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.

Small party treats add a kick of spice and bold flavor to keep guests going during any snack session. Serving up Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls brings everyone back to the plate. They go with crackers or fresh veggies. Good to make ahead. The plate always empties.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Turkey Pinwheels

Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.
Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rolled bites bring a lighter option to the snack board while still keeping things interesting. Slicing up Turkey Pinwheels makes it simple to grab food on the run. Perfect for leftovers. Fits well in lunch boxes. Crowd loves these on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pinwheels

Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Toasty snacks with seafood top off any holiday tray in a way that gets noticed. Spreading out Shrimp Toast brings folks to the kitchen for a sample. These get crispy edges and a fluffy inside. Good for grabbing and eating between chats. Always gets compliments immediately.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Wrapped up mini bites mean nostalgia and easy fun at every gathering. Baking Pigs in a Blanket guarantees a buzz by the snack table. These hold up well for hours. Dips make them even better but aren’t required. Expect none left after the party.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side.
Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Rich, creamy spread offers something bold and quick for scooping while chatting before dinner. Dipping into Muhammara with Pita Bread brings a new flavor to group snacks. Easy to make for a crowd. Packs well for later. Friends ask what it is and want more.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

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.

Thick bites stacked with smoky edges fill appetizer trays fast and spark quick grins from party-goers. Passing around Smoky Bacon Pig Shots results in empty toothpick jars and happy bellies. Reheat well for leftovers. Pairs great with beer or soda. People always ask for more.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Italian Sliders

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

Everyone gets a mini sandwich with bold flavors lined up on a party platter. Presenting Italian Sliders makes the appetizer round both filling and easy. They travel well and don’t fall apart. Quick to reheat in a pinch. They’re always gone before the main meal starts.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

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.

These round snacks hit the table first and leave it fast since they never make it past the halfway mark. Serving Sausage Balls gets people reaching for more without thinking. Packs up neatly. No tools needed. There’s always a call for more.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Shrimp Ceviche

A close-up of shrimp ceviche with sliced red onions and chopped cilantro, served in a decorative green bowl.
Shrimp Ceviche. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cold and tangy, this seafood dish shows up as a bright break on the snack table and keeps people coming back. A tray of Shrimp Ceviche disappears during the first round of appetizers. It travels well for sharing. Perfect for any party style. Snacking never stops with this one.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Christmas Cheese Trees

Close-up of sliced cheese coated with mixed herbs and chopped nuts on parchment paper, resembling charming Christmas cheese trees.
Christmas Cheese Trees. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Festive bites shaped like trees bring playful style to your platter and get folks chatting at the table. Setting up Christmas Cheese Trees means no fork is needed to enjoy. Kids and grown-ups grab for these equally. They look great and store for later. Bet you don’t have any left to pack up.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Cheese Trees

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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