49 New Year’s Eve Appetizer Inspirations For Plates That Empty Quietly

Inviting friends for New Year’s Eve becomes simpler when you have 49 appetizer inspirations to reference. Planning snacks that disappear quietly puts the focus on conversation and fun. Small bites have a way of encouraging folks to keep coming back for more.

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.

Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Crispy Candied Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Shiny and sweet, these Crispy Candied Tanghulu lines up on skewers, making it a showpiece at any winter celebration. Each bite brings a bright crunch followed by fruit’s natural sweetness. I find these gems spark curiosity and can’t help but be the center of party chatter. Tanghulu guarantees a unique treat guests will talk about long after midnight.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Cheesy Rotel Dip

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

Steamy, cheesy goodness fills every scoop of this Cheesy Rotel Dip, quickly surrounded by eager snackers. Chips sink in, carrying just enough kick to keep things lively. I lean on this dip for casual parties when people want something comforting and bold. Spicy warmth like this always gets the night started right.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rotel Dip

Classic Party Cheese Ball

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

Creamy cheese and crunchy coating come together in this Classic Party Cheese Ball, earning a spot among timeless holiday snacks. Crackers and veggies circle the ball as people return for more. I roll up cheese balls knowing they fit both cozy gatherings and big blowouts. One bite feels traditional, yet just fancy enough for New Year’s Eve.
Get the Recipe: Classic Party Cheese Ball

Crispy 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.
Crispy Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Golden wrappers and savory fillings bring this Crispy Egg Roll to the party platter, vanishing soon after the first tray is set down. Guests watch for the crunch and can’t stop at just one. I serve egg rolls as handheld starters that never slow down the fun. Familiar yet special, they always get a warm welcome on a winter night.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Egg Roll

Bite-Sized 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.
Bite-Sized Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Little shells packed with flavor make this Bite-Sized Mini Tacos recipe a crowd favorite for mingling guests. People build stacks, thanks to their perfect size for party plates. I love setting out mini tacos because everyone gets creative with toppings. Flavorful tacos make gatherings feel more festive and leave no hands empty.
Get the Recipe: Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

Crispy 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.
Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy ridges and buttery softness fill each piece of these Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes, drawing “wow” reactions from the snack table. These potatoes add a fun visual twist to any New Year’s Eve spread. I choose mini hasselbacks when I want something that’s both simple to eat and impossible to resist. Every bite delivers crunch, comfort, and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Beautiful 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.
Beautiful Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

An inviting mix of meats, cheeses, fruits, and extras on this Beautiful Charcuterie Board instantly brightens the table. Friends gather quickly, curiosity piqued by each new bite they find. I like making boards to please every craving in one place, especially when celebrating in style. Charcuterie’s variety makes each party feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Beautiful Charcuterie Board

Crispy Spring Roll

A plate of fresh vegetable spring rolls filled with greens, shredded carrots, and purple cabbage, served with a bowl of dipping sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
Spring Roll. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light wrappers and savory fillings give this Crispy Spring Roll a spot among party snacks that disappear fast. Dipping sauce waits nearby for a little extra flair. I enjoy setting out spring rolls when I need an easy, crunchy favorite. A single tray proves that simple finger food is always a hit for ringing in the New Year.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Spring Roll

Savory Sausage Balls

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

Juicy centers and a hearty bite define this Savory Sausage Balls dish, quickly running out as guests fill their plates. The scent drifts through the kitchen and nobody stays seated for long. I whip up sausage balls for both quick prepping and easy sharing. Savory snacks like this spark those “just one more” moments all night.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sausage Balls

Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lightly seasoned, each piece in this Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp promises a quick crunch that draws partygoers in. People pause for extras because the flavors are bright and fun. I offer shrimp for New Year’s Eve when I want something out of the ordinary. Bold seasoning keeps the conversation lively and plates empty.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Classic Deviled Eggs

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

Silky yolks tucked into bite-size whites mark this Classic Deviled Eggs recipe, perfect for sharing with friends old and new. Platters empty before anyone notices, always impressing first-timers. I set out deviled eggs at every celebration knowing they belong among the essentials. Creamy and festive, they fit every winter occasion.
Get the Recipe: Classic Deviled Eggs

Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board

A holiday-themed platter with bowls of hummus, yogurt dip, nuts, grapes, breadsticks, and crackers, decorated with festive greenery and red ribbons.
Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright produce shapes this Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board into a centerpiece as impressive as any holiday decor. Crunchy dip-ready slices pull color and charm into every bite. I arrange veggie boards to provide a lighter balance on rich, celebratory tables. Healthy snacking never looked more inviting or festive than here.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

A platter of whipped cheese topped with roasted cranberries, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions.
Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweetness and heat come together inside this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip, drawing folks in with its vibrant look. Dip disappears fast as guests go back for more. I turn to cranberry dip when the appetizer spread needs a little energy. The surprising flavor mix helps parties kick off with a jolt of cheer.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Hamburger Sliders

Three sesame seed buns filled with melted cheese and ground beef are arranged on a wooden board.
Hamburger Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Juicy patties tucked in soft buns make this Hamburger Sliders setup impossible to ignore at party time. Build-your-own options draw smiles as everyone stacks their favorites. I roll out sliders for an easy crowd-pleaser with a classic twist. Bite-size burgers mean nobody leaves hungry for the new year.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Sliders

Fresh Shrimp Ceviche

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

Cool, citrusy bites fill this Fresh Shrimp Ceviche, perfect for adding a pop of brightness to winter spreads. Guests gather close, curious about the refreshing flavors. I set out ceviche when it’s time to lighten things up. A dash of coastal flair lifts the mood and helps balance heavier appetizers on the table.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Shrimp Ceviche

Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus

Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Caramelized onions bring sweet depth to this Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus, making vegetables and crackers disappear in no time. People linger near the bowl, scooping every last bit. I rely on hummus for an easy, shareable snack that works for all tastes. Layers of flavor create extra excitement for any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Savory Caramelized Onion Hummus

Scallion Pancakes

Four cooked scallion pancakes on parchment paper, garnished with sliced green onions, with a small bowl of dipping sauce and a whole scallion beside them.
Scallion Pancakes. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Crispy on the outside with tender centers, this Scallion Pancakes plate vanishes soon after serving. Tear-and-share slices make mingling even easier. I reach for scallion pancakes when finger food needs a little extra flair. Green flecks and savory notes bring something unique to the appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A baked pull-apart bread ring with melted cheese and cranberries on a gray plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs.
Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Gooey cheese meets tart berries in this Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread, unveiling melty centers with every pull. Guests chat about the combo, reaching for piece after piece. I serve pull-apart bread when I want a hands-on treat that draws a group together. It looks festive and disappears before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Flaky 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.
Flaky Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pastry cloaks each bite-sized sausage in this Flaky Pigs in a Blanket, winning instant fans at New Year’s countdowns. Plates empty as soon as they appear. I bake pigs in a blanket for quick, nostalgic appetizers everyone knows and craves. They’re bite-sized, buttery, and always in demand.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Pigs in a Blanket

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.

Stacks of color in this 7 Layer Dip bowl promise crunchy scoops and bold flavors. People hover near the dip, assembling chips with their favorite layers. I assemble layer dips for parties that need a low-stress, high-flavor centerpiece. A few minutes prepping means a lot of happy snackers all night long.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Spiral Pizza Pinwheels

A plate of golden-brown pinwheel pastries filled with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of sauce is in the background.
Spiral Pizza Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spirals of cheesy pizza inside Spiral Pizza Pinwheels add flair and flavor to the snack table, both hot and cold. Friends debate which layer is their favorite. I whip up pinwheels for gatherings where finger food keeps things moving. Pizza-inspired bites carry familiar flavors into a fun, party-ready form.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Pizza Pinwheels

Copycat Savvy Slider

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

Restaurant-style flavor shines in this Copycat Savvy Slider, complete with a juicy patty in a soft bun. Guests compare these sliders to their favorite burger spots. I prepare savvy sliders for casual parties looking to impress. Every bite delivers the best of fast food, but perfect for home celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Savvy Slider

Crispy Conch Fritters

A plate of golden-brown fritters garnished with chopped herbs, served with a dipping sauce and a wedge of lemon.
Crispy Conch Fritters. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Golden on the outside and bursting with flavor inside, this Crispy Conch Fritters appetizer brings a taste of the coast to winter festivities. People pause after the first bite, surprised at the texture. I set out conch fritters to surprise guests who love trying new things. Every crunchy bite brings a smile and a story.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Conch Fritters

Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Close-up of chicken bacon ranch sliders with grilled chicken, bacon, and melted cheese inside a golden bun, garnished with herbs.
Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of flavor pile up inside these Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders, becoming an instant favorite among hungry partygoers. The richness draws a line at the buffet table. I make extra sliders for nights packed with friends. Hearty sliders deliver everything you want in a snack—plus a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls

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

Spicy chicken hidden inside Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls delivers a warm surprise with every bite. People crowd the platter, eager for a second serving. I bring buffalo rolls to any gathering where bold, fun appetizers win. Mellow spice and creamy filling combine for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls

Colorful Antipasto Skewers

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

Bright vegetables and savory extras shine on every stick of these Colorful Antipasto Skewers, making the table more lively. Choices keep guests coming back to try new combos. I layer antipasto skewers for those who want variety in a single bite. Vibrant colors and bold ingredients feel just right for New Year’s sharing.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Skewers

Loaded Potato Skins

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

Crisp shells filled with hearty toppings define these Loaded Potato Skins, going straight from platter to hand without missing a beat. People snap up skins and often wish there were more. I keep this recipe in mind for parties with guests who love classic comfort foods. Each potato delivers a hot, satisfying snack.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Cowboy Nachos

A tray of nachos topped with ground meat, melted cheese, chopped green onions, cilantro, fried onions, barbecue sauce, and two dollops of sour cream.
Cowboy Nachos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Heaps of toppings turn this Cowboy Nachos plate into the main event of any appetizer buffet. Friends build their own towers, layering on as much as the chip can hold. I make nachos for game-day parties where hands-on snacking adds to the fun. With endless combinations, nachos always stand out for winter gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Nachos

Fresh Rice Paper Rolls

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

Crisp vegetables and bright herbs peek through these Fresh Rice Paper Rolls, turning snacking into an art form. Guests marvel at the color and fresh flavor on display. I set out rice paper rolls for a light, crunchy option that balances out heartier bites. Healthy, hand-rolled treats add a touch of excitement to the table.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Rice Paper Rolls

Rich Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies.
Rich Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of cookie crumble and velvety cream make this Rich Oreo Cheesecake a showstopper for the dessert table. Guests always guess what makes each slice so memorable. I save this recipe for events where something a little more decadent is in order. Creamy and striking, it draws eyes before the first forkful is tasted.
Get the Recipe: Rich Oreo Cheesecake

Creamy Hummus

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

Smooth and rich, this Creamy Hummus satisfies friends looking for lighter dips to pair with fresh vegetables or bread. The bowl becomes a hub for hearty snacking as the night stretches on. I set out hummus for groups who need inclusive options that can handle all sorts of dippers. Creamy hummus delivers a calm, cooling bite beside bolder fare.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Hummus

Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gooey cheese surrounded by warm dough describes these Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls, always making hands reach across the table. These rolls are scooped up quickly, straight from the sheet. I use pizza rolls during movie nights or when crowds want something playful and easy. Every bite offers pizza flavor, no need for slicing.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Savory 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.
Savory Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soft buns paired with juicy meatballs create these Savory Meatball Sliders, both hearty and shareable for large gatherings. Tomatoes and melted cheese pull it all together. I prepare meatball sliders every time sports are on and the group is hungry. Big flavor in a small package means they’re always welcome.
Get the Recipe: Savory Meatball Sliders

Smoked Mackerel Pate

A white bowl filled with a creamy, light brown spread, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Smoked Mackerel Pate. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Smoky flavors blend in this Smoked Mackerel Pate, which turns plain crackers into conversation starters. Guests marvel at the creamy texture and deep savoriness. I serve mackerel pate when I want to impress with something different and memorable. The striking taste keeps people talking as they nibble.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

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

Zippy heat and creamy filling make this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels platter a regular highlight. People often circle back for seconds, drawn by the bold kick. I set out buffalo pinwheels whenever game night calls for more than chips and dips. Spirals pack a punch and keep the party energized.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Savory 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.
Savory Roast Beef Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tender slices, melted cheese, and soft rolls make up these Savory Roast Beef Sliders, pleasing the crowd each time the plate goes out. People cherish how easy it is to eat something so hearty. I serve roast beef sliders where hungry guests want a classic but fuss-free snack. Party food like this keeps everyone satisfied until midnight.
Get the Recipe: Savory Roast Beef Sliders

Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Baked baby potatoes topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chopped green onions on parchment paper.
Loaded Baked Potato Bites. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fluffy potato with seasoned toppings turns this Loaded Baked Potato Bites dish into a hot-ticket party favorite. Plates clear fast as folks come back for more. I whip up potato bites when I need finger food that never fails. Simple comfort gets new life in every poppable bite, perfect for a festive night.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Baked Potato Bites

Soft Pita Bread

A stack of six round, golden-brown pita breads sits on a baking tray, with more pita breads visible to the side.
Soft Pita Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm wedges and a fluffy bite make this Soft Pita Bread a must for dips and spreads during celebrations. Plenty of people return for seconds as the night continues. I find pita bread connects all kinds of appetizers into one spread. Good pita sets the stage for creative, fun, and shareable snacking.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pita Bread

Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

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

Classic flavors inside a bite-sized bun describe this Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders selection, drawing people from across the room with the aroma alone. Each patty offers up crowd-pleasing comfort. I bring cheeseburger sliders when I want to spark instant nostalgia during parties. No utensils needed, just grab and go.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

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

Smoky sausages wrapped in bacon lure guests to the buffet with this Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies tray. The line forms quickly as the aroma fills the room. I always keep a double batch ready for meat lovers in the group. Crispy bacon and juicy bites guarantee no leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Loaded 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.
Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Party guests light up as these Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels arrive, stacked with layers inspired by the classic. Big flavors come in small swirls, letting everyone grab one with no mess. I serve Big Mac pinwheels when nostalgia meets a need for finger foods. Childhood memories and hearty snacking blend perfectly here.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels

Melty 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.
Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Gooey cheese and savory ham fill these Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders, making them disappear before the next tray even cools. People pair these with a side of chips and keep the party rolling. I choose ham sliders for gatherings where easy sharing is a must. Melted goodness promises the celebration will last a little longer.
Get the Recipe: Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders

Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

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

Roasted flavors blend into creamy perfection with this Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread, catching interest from adventurous snackers. Rich color draws people in for a first taste, but the bold flavor keeps them nearby. I reach for muhammara when hummus feels a bit too familiar. Spread and scoop, it brightens any New Year’s Eve table.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

A plate of baked crescent rolls filled with slices of ham and melted cheese, topped with black sesame seeds and garnished with parsley.
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tender crescent rolls filled with classic flavors make these Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls a crowd favorite. Guests grab one after another, lucky to catch them before they’re gone. I turn to crescent rolls for after-work prep or last-minute plans. Buttery and sharable, they check every box on New Year’s Eve.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

Loaded Italian Sliders

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

Italian-style meats and cheese, layered in mini rolls, describe this Loaded Italian Sliders masterpiece. People rave over the bold flavors packed into such a small bundle. I set out Italian sliders when I want something substantial that fits on an appetizer plate. No one stops at just one, so be ready to refill.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Italian Sliders

Buttery 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.
Buttery Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm loaves, full of garlicky aroma, complete every spread with this Buttery Garlic Bread sliced up for dipping or snacking. The basket never stays full for long at any party. I bake garlic bread because it connects everything: dips, cheese, or even just buttery bites. Each slice brings instant comfort to welcoming the new year.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Garlic Bread

Chicken Pinwheels

Close-up of baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with cheese, herbs, and finely chopped toppings, garnished with sliced green onions.
Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Neutral wraps filled with rich chicken make this Chicken Pinwheels snack a go-to for casual nights. Guests reach for several, chatting as they make their rounds. I like bringing pinwheels since they’re light, portable, and filling at the same time. Every swirl packs familiar, crowd-friendly flavor into each bite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pinwheels

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.

Mini cups of bacon and hearty filling turn this Smoky Bacon Pig Shots appetizer into a talking point all on its own. People watch the tray, trying not to miss a second serving. I find these bites work best as a savory treat for grown-up parties. The balance of smoke and richness is spot-on for cold winter nights.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

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.

Cheesy bites with smoky bacon and a touch of heat from jalapeño make this Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls platter unforgettable. The first bite surprises everyone with its creamy center. I serve cheese balls for parties sorely in need of a kick. Each ball gets snapped up fast, so set extra aside if you can.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

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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