47 Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes That Always Keep Guests Busy
Before the big meal turns into a marathon, these 47 Thanksgiving appetizer recipes buy everyone some peace. They keep the crowd entertained, the kitchen calm, and the mood light. Every small bite adds to the buzz of the season without stealing the spotlight from the main course.

Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Plates move fast at any holiday party when bite-sized snacks get the nod while everyone waits for the main event. Savory Turkey Pinwheels on a platter means hands stay busy and guests chat between nibbles, making these a go-to starter for any big dinner. Little rolls work as quick finger food at any table. Platters empty out before anyone gets bored.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels
Crispy Shrimp Toast

Trays disappear quickly every time golden bites show up for appetizer hour, giving everyone something fun without spoiling dinner. Crispy Shrimp Toast means even picky eaters have something to grab, with plates cleared almost as quick as you put them down. Pairs well with dips or just a squeeze of lemon. Extra slices never make it to leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Snack tables fill up with fun bites when something crunchy with a little kick enters the room, making small talk easier for guests. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites turns snack time into a real event with sauces on the side, and folks go back for more. Great for game nights too. These are always among the first to run out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus

Chips circle the bowl fast when smooth spreads anchor the snack table, pulling everyone in for just one more scoop. Setting out Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus gives a twist to classic dips and keeps conversation lively while the main meal gets ready. This is easy to pair with breads or fresh veggies. Bowls clear out with no problem.
Get the Recipe: Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus
Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Stacks of little sandwiches vanish off serving trays once guests get a whiff, and folks usually come back for seconds. Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders means both little ones and grown-ups get their hands on easy bites before dinner starts. Perfect with classic toppings or plain. No slider gets left behind.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders
Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs

Plates fill up quickly with creamy deviled eggs dressed up for fancier times, perfect for passing around as you wait for the meal. Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs feels special and gives guests something to talk about, with flavors that stand out at any table. Goes great with other finger foods. Dozens disappear every time.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs
Savory Sausage Balls

Loads of trays vanish once classic finger foods hit the table, and grabbing Savory Sausage Balls makes snack time a breeze when plates move from guest to guest. They work at big gatherings, and extras are easy to pack for the next day. Good warm or cold. Nothing sits on the tray for long.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sausage Balls
Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Plates pile up with layered sliders that keep people full while they wait for the big meal, so extras get packed for late-night snacks. Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders puts a new spin on party food, and serving trays are always wiped clean. Good with any side snacks. Guests can’t grab just one.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Savory Stuffed Mushrooms

Platters empty quick when earthy bites appear at the table, offering guests a smooth way to snack before anything else rolls out. Savory Stuffed Mushrooms brings classic comfort with each bite, great for pairing with drinks or other favorites. Plates circle back for seconds. There’s never any left over.
Get the Recipe: Savory Stuffed Mushrooms
Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Bowls crowd together at appetizer hour whenever creamy dips take center stage, keeping hands full until dinner is ready. Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Hummus gets folks talking as they graze, and it fits in with just about any other snack. Pairs with bread, crackers, or raw veggies. Dips are scraped clean in no time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Hummus
Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Trays of little bites go fast when salty and sweet come together, making everyone forget how many they’ve grabbed while talking. Passing out Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies turns any appetizer table into a hit for holiday gatherings or game nights alike. Always gets folks crowding the tray. Not even one left behind.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Classic Shrimp Cocktail

Bowls of chilled shrimp come out and suddenly everyone is at the snack table dipping, which means conversation always keeps going. Classic Shrimp Cocktail keeps tradition alive, and extras never last long with this many hands reaching in. Always pairs well with a tangy sauce. Nothing extra needs clearing away.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites

Platters line up with bright bites and skewers everyone can grab between conversations, giving the crowd a light option before dinner. Handing out Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites sets a fresh tone for any get-together, and servings vanish quickly. Works great for any style of party. Trays are clear before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites
Creamy Beer Cheese Dip

Chips and bread fly off plates when snack tables hold bold cheesy dips that bring everyone back for seconds. Creamy Beer Cheese Dip keeps the mood relaxed, and dipping makes any gathering more fun. Good hot or cold. Bowls don’t stay full long.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beer Cheese Dip
Loaded Potato Skins

Platters empty out once crispy layers show up for game night or family gatherings, and serving up Loaded Potato Skins means nobody is shy about going for another round. These work with plenty of dips, so guests can keep it fun while mingling. Always a crowd-pleaser. Not a single one left for later.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins
Elegant Crostini Appetizers

Platters carry a mix of bites for sharing that work just as well in formal dinners as in laid-back snack rounds. Elegant Crostini Appetizers sets the bar high for finger food, and toppings match with everything. Stacks are easy to grab and snack on. Treys are wiped clean every time.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Crostini Appetizers
Chicken Pinwheels

Trays get cleaned out quickly when folks want something quick to snack on that doesn’t need utensils. Chicken Pinwheels helps guests stay busy, and extras are perfect for lunch. Great for mingling or chilling out before dinner. The plate is never full for long.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pinwheels
Classic Deviled Eggs

Plates move around the room as classic favorites fill every appetizer table, and extras always turn up in lunch boxes. Classic Deviled Eggs feels familiar but never gets old at any gathering, keeping everyone coming back for just one more. Always vanishes first. Not one left on the tray.
Get the Recipe: Classic Deviled Eggs
Savory Roast Beef Sliders

Stacks disappear when small bites bring big flavor to the party, so plates go back around the table for more. Passing out Savory Roast Beef Sliders makes holding a conversation and a snack easy at the same time, which guests love. Good plain or with dips. Trays are empty before anyone’s done talking.
Get the Recipe: Savory Roast Beef Sliders
Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls

Platters roll out with spicy snacks that make people reach for seconds without thinking, especially when paired with dips. Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls keeps things lively, and extras always go in snack boxes. Bold flavors stand out. Not much to pack up after.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls
Flaky Pigs in a Blanket

Trays of snacks travel fast around the room when everyone is a fan of bite-sized flaky treats that never disappoint. Flaky Pigs in a Blanket means late arrivers won’t miss anything, but odds are there will be none left to try. Always pairs well with classic mustard. Every piece is swiped from the platter.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Pigs in a Blanket
Beautiful Charcuterie Board

Tables light up when trays filled with color and choices arrive, letting guests graze and chat while waiting for dinner. Beautiful Charcuterie Board takes snack tables up a notch and everyone finds something to love. Mix of textures makes each round fun. Boards come back empty.
Get the Recipe: Beautiful Charcuterie Board
Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Platters get cleaned up fast once spicy snacks are in play, and guests stick close when these get pulled from the oven. Passing around Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers injects a little boldness to appetizer hour, which always fires up the conversation. Good hot or room temperature. Leftovers disappear quick.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Sliders disappear at the snack table once savory bites with a touch of sweetness get served, making them top picks for hungry guests. Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders puts flavor and fun right up front, and extras work well as late-night snacks. These move quick. No leftovers in sight.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders
Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Plates fill up fast with crispy bites that everyone grabs for their own plates before dipping into sauces and mixing with other snacks. Walking around with Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes lets guests feel out the spread, and no two are ever left behind. Great for sharing. Bowls end up empty.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes
Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Platters go missing when big groups get the munchies, and snacks disappear quick if rolls hit the table first. Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls means everyone gets involved grabbing bites and sharing sauces. Easy, fast, and fun for parties. Nothing left for the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls
Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites

Trays of bites with a bit of sweet and creamy fit right in at any crowd, perfect while guests make small talk before dinner. Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites keeps things new, with pieces getting snapped up as soon as they go around. Great combination of flavor in a small bite. Every tray is empty in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites
Loaded Italian Sliders

Plates fill fast at any get together once hearty sliders show up, making waiting for dinner a little easier. Loaded Italian Sliders means no one goes hungry before the main meal arrives, and leftovers are rare. Pairs great with pickles or salad. These never stick around long.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Italian Sliders
Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Sharing breads always brings people in, so a pull-apart loaf gets folks standing around the snack table all night. Lifting apart pieces of Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread lets everyone dig in and never gets old, no matter how often you serve it. Perfect for a crowd. No crumbs left behind.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Snack spreads hit another level when plates of bold cheese balls show up, and everyone grabs a bite between sips and stories. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls adds just the right kick, and leftovers fit perfectly between meals for a quick treat. These make sharing fun. Every ball gets eaten.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Plates get wiped clear at game day gatherings when crispy bites are easy to grab while chatting with friends. Setting out Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes keeps snack time lively with easy finger food that works for all ages. Great with simple dips. No extras left.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Fresh Shrimp Ceviche

Bowls on ice turn heads at snack hour, giving guests something cool and fresh to kick off the night before dinner. Fresh Shrimp Ceviche keeps things light, and extra scoops hit empty plates quick. Good for any style of get-together. Seafood never sits out long.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Shrimp Ceviche
Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels

Bite-sized rolls spin around appetizer tables, and everyone picks up at least one while waiting for the main dish. Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels takes no extra effort, but snack time stretches with extra hands reaching for more. Great cold or room temp. Not a roll is left by the end.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Platters move quick when stacks with bold flavor get served, and hands reach for every last one the second they hit the tray. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots turns snack time into an event. Good warm or at room temperature. Nothing returns to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Snack trays empty out twice as fast with a mix of cheese and sausage on hand, and even leftovers vanish between meals. Grabbing a round of Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls means nobody stands too far from the food. Always a favorite with a crowd. Not one left over.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Chips and veggies move in a circle when a sweet, spicy dip hits the table, keeping everyone busy until the next round comes out. Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip brings a hit of brightness, and extras go into mini-snack boxes. Great for sharing. Bowls empty out.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
Savory Turkey Sliders

Plates get handed out as soon as these go up front, making snack time the best part of waiting for dinner. Savory Turkey Sliders means you miss out if you’re slow, and leftovers never make it to lunch. Great with simple sides or chips. All gone by the time dinner’s up.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Sliders
Cheesy Rotel Dip

Bowls get scraped up once cheesy dip lands in the center, keeping snack time easy while folks chat. Cheesy Rotel Dip brings all the chips to the yard, with extras fitting sandwiches for fast bites later in the week. Super easy to match with anything snacking. No dip left behind.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rotel Dip
Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Snack boards look their best when the spread is shaped for holiday cheer, keeping even picky eaters busy while waiting for the meal. Building a Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board means hands stay full, and guests show off pictures to friends. Good variety for everyone. Plates and boards clear without a trace.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board
Savory Meatball Sliders

Small sandwiches get grabbed before drinks are even poured, keeping hands busy and bellies from rumbling. Savory Meatball Sliders means gatherings go smoothly, with every sandwich picked clean before dinner. Dips fit right in. No sliders left at the end.
Get the Recipe: Savory Meatball Sliders
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Plates move as fast as these biscuits come out of the oven, and nobody hesitates to go back for just one more. Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits makes gatherings better, and leftovers go well with lunch the next day. Always on the request list. Easy to polish off a whole batch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Colorful Antipasto Skewers

Platters brighten up any table when skewers loaded with a little of everything make for handy finger food before sitting down for dinner. Colorful Antipasto Skewers keeps everyone chatting, and extras double as quick lunch snacks. Always fresh. Not a skewer left by the end.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Skewers
Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

Bowls get scooped clean once creamy spreads hit the table, giving guests new flavors to try while they wait for the meal. Passing around Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread means everyone can grab a bite and keep talking. Pairs with all sorts of veggies or crackers. Nothing stays behind.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread
Crispy Maryland Crab Cake

Plates disappear quickly once golden snacks filled with seafood flavor show up, making these a welcome choice at any gathering. Crispy Maryland Crab Cake gets people excited, and extras vanish before they cool off. Always a crowd favorite. No trace left to clean.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Maryland Crab Cake
Savory Brats in a Blanket

Trays of wrapped bites get snatched up fast when party snacks are on deck, so extras get set aside for late-night nibbles. Handing out Savory Brats in a Blanket means busy snack tables and plenty of spirits. Everyone grabs two without thinking. None remain for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Savory Brats in a Blanket
Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders

Sliders vanish as soon as they’re put down, making every appetizer round feel a little more fun before dinner kicks in. Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders keeps hands full—so people eat and mingle at the same time. Leftovers head into lunch bags. All gone fast.
Get the Recipe: Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders
Crispy Party Crostini

Platters of crunchy snacks leave hands reaching in for more, with plates cycling around during every conversation at the gathering. Crispy Party Crostini puts a base for anything from spreads to sliced meats on the table. Mix and match flavors as you like. Nothing left to clear away.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Party Crostini
About the Author

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.
