Dinner’s Late but 45 Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes Save Me

The turkey timer betrayed you again, but the guests don’t have to know. A smart batch of 45 Thanksgiving appetizer recipes can turn a delay into part of the plan. Dinner may be late, but the good mood stays right on schedule thanks to a clever spread that keeps everyone happily occupied.

Roast Beef Sliders

When dinner runs late everyone needs something hearty like Roast Beef Sliders to tide them over. These are bite-sized but still bring big comfort at a crowded table. They’re great for passing around while people catch up. Quick to grab and eat so nobody misses out on chatting. Everyone is happy holding one of these before the main event.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders

Shrimp Toast

People waiting for the turkey will appreciate having Shrimp Toast on the table. This finger food has crunch but also feels light so it doesn’t spoil dinner. Perfect for folks who want something a little different from the usual nibbles. No mess or fuss—you can just grab it and go back to talking. Friends and family reach for these as soon as the tray comes out.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

Italian Sub Pinwheels

With hungry faces around everyone reaches for Italian Sub Pinwheels when things run behind. They are fun to eat and look good on any tray. It’s easy for people to grab one and talk to everyone else. Nobody needs to grab a plate or fork because these work right in your hand. These always go fast at any event where dinner’s slow.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

Stuffed Mushrooms

Any group getting hungrier loves when someone brings out Stuffed Mushrooms. They look fancy but are easy to pick up and share. These always get compliments from people who want something warm but don’t want to fill up. Friends will ask if there are more because even picky eaters come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Salmon Deviled Eggs

When it’s clear dinner will take a while it helps to have Salmon Deviled Eggs on the table. This is something people rarely expect but always finish by the time the turkey comes out. Great for crowds who enjoy a new twist on a classic. They disappear fast without making anyone too full for the main meal. Everyone tries at least one while waiting for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Deviled Eggs

Caprese Appetizer

As guests start to get impatient Caprese Appetizer brings a little color to the snack table. These are good for passing around so everyone can share. People who want something quick and light always grab these first. They make waiting for everything else more relaxed. These little bites are popular when food needs to keep moving.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Italian Sliders

Holiday delays make everyone extra hungry so Italian Sliders hit the spot. Little sandwiches disappear as fast as you set them out. They are simple to grab and perfect for people standing in groups. Everyone loves the flavors and you’ll hear people asking if more are coming. These keep energy up until dinner is finally ready.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Brats in a Blanket

Hungry crowds get excited when warm trays of Brats in a Blanket show up. These are easy to pop in your mouth without missing any conversation. They fill you up just enough without ruining dinner. Guests enjoy how fast they can eat these before the main course. You can see trays empty out right away.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Antipasto Skewers

If people look at you for snacks it helps to pass out Antipasto Skewers. They’re simple but bring a mix that’s perfect for snacking while everyone chats. You can eat a couple or just one if you don’t want to spoil dinner. These are a crowd-pleaser because you don’t need any plate. They always go fast at the start of any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Caramelized Onion Hummus

When the main meal is slow out comes Caramelized Onion Hummus for dipping and chatting. Dips get people moving around the table. This one is creamy and everyone goes back for more. It’s nice for sharing because you can set it out with different sides. People love digging in while waiting for dinner to get going.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion Hummus

Meatball Sliders

When dinner is behind schedule, Meatball Sliders* show up and calm everyone down. You can eat these warm sandwiches in just a few bites. They fit in your hand so no need to slow the group down with cutlery. No one is left out because there’s always plenty. They keep the mood up until it’s time for the main course.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

Muhammara with Pita Bread

When people start to wonder when the feast will arrive Muhammara with Pita Bread keeps everyone gathered. You can dip or just enjoy it straight, either way these go quickly. This picks up any group’s mood while they’re waiting. No need to sit down because you can eat standing. Friends talk over this long before the turkey gets carved.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

Party Crostini

Tables fill up with chatter as servers bring out Party Crostini when things stall. These crunchy bites are easy to pass around. People are always looking for another flavor or combo to try. It’s a little treat that holds people over. Several flavors keep the line moving until dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

When everyone gets restless Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers always wake people up. They quickly disappear from plates, so you know people are hungry. Bold flavors keep snacks interesting for everyone staying near the kitchen. These never last long because they’re gone before people sit down.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

When food takes longer you see everyone gather near Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. These rolls have just enough crunch and flavor to feel special. They move quickly from tray to mouth because no one wants to miss out. Everyone checks to see if more are coming. They make the wait easier each year.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

The moment before dinner gets here everyone reaches for Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. These are always first to vanish from the appetizer spread. One or two is just right for holding off hunger pains. People often ask if there’s a secret to how good they are. You’ll find lots of empty trays after these come out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Any slow dinner brings excitement when Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders hit the table. This snack feels big enough to keep everyone pleased. The sweet and savory combo has people lining up for seconds. They’re perfect for passing around without a mess. The snack keeps the group happy while everyone waits for the real meal.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Maryland Crab Cake

Holiday crowds talk about appetizers like Maryland Crab Cake every year. This brings something special to the snacks before dinner. Easy to eat with just hands—no extras needed. Friends always count on these to get a fix before everything else is ready. It goes fast whenever it’s on a tray.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Beer Cheese Dip

Big meals may be late but Beer Cheese Dip makes everyone forget about waiting. Dipping snacks bring people together around any table. This one keeps everyone busy while the oven finishes up. People don’t need much of it to keep hunger at bay. The bowl is always empty when dinner finally shows up.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip

Loaded Potato Skins

As everyone waits for the big meal Loaded Potato Skins are passed around. They’re perfect for sharing during group conversations. You get a bite that feels filling but not too heavy. They always get finished before the main course starts. These keep people from getting too grumpy during long waits.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Cheeseburger Sliders

When the main event is stuck in the oven Cheeseburger Sliders keep spirits up. These mini burgers are easy to grab and share a smile with. No one gets bored while waiting with these in hand. Friends can chat between bites without a mess. By the time plates are cleared you know dinner is finally ready.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Waiting for the holiday meal gets easier with Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. You can pop one in your mouth while still talking with friends. These are always first to finish because everyone wants another. It’s a quick snack that doesn’t slow anyone down. You won’t spot many leftovers once they show up.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Ham and Cheese Sliders

When you know dinner will be late Ham and Cheese Sliders are a must. These little sandwiches go fast once they come out. They fit in your hand so everyone keeps chatting while eating. People like to grab seconds or thirds because they’re small. The wait doesn’t feel so long with these snacks around.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Deviled Eggs

Hungry crowds room love those Deviled Eggs before the main course. These are perfect for holding you over without getting too full. They sit on the table where everyone can reach. Nobody feels left out because there’s always one for everyone. They’re a go-to at any event where dinner needs a little extra time.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

With dinner running behind everyone gathers near Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball for a quick snack. It’s a centerpiece nobody misses while munching on crackers. Guests love to break into it while chatting and waiting. This shape always starts conversations at the table. People keep coming back for seconds until dinner is done.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Shrimp Ceviche

Delays in the kitchen mean people reach for Shrimp Ceviche. Friends enjoy this light fresh option that feels different from heavier snacks. No need for a fork because you can eat it with chips. This disappears quickly as people stand around. A bowl of this is always empty by the time dinner is ready.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

When oven time pushes everything back Roasted Pumpkin Hummus adds a twist to classic dips. It sits front and center for everyone to try. It brings out conversation while people grab pita or veggies. Snackers scoop without thinking twice. Things always seem happier when this is out.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Turkey Sliders

Anybody hungry at the get-together goes for Turkey Sliders if dinner’s slow. The little sandwiches give just enough to keep you from filling up too soon. No one needs a fork or knife so it’s easy to mingle. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for everyone who’s waiting. The tray rarely comes back full.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

While everyone waits around the table Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are passed around. These work for people who want something quick with a little extra kick. Crackers and cheese get everyone talking between bites. Hand to hand, these go quickly though the crowd. No gathering feels complete until these are gone.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Rotel Dip

People missing dinner for too long gather around Rotel Dip and chips. It’s easy to eat standing up or sitting down. Anyone can just dip and talk with friends without pausing too much. Before you know it everyone’s asking for the recipe. You’ll see the bowl get cleaned out every time.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Shrimp Cocktail

People who want a lighter snack reach for Shrimp Cocktail while dinner delays. Neat and easy on a platter everyone likes how simple it is to grab. You don’t need lots of extras to serve it up. Platter is always empty quickly. Friends talk longer around the table when this is around.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

If the big meal is behind schedule everyone lines up for Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. These snacks are just enough to keep energy up while people wait. Spicy bites go fast once set out on the tray. Nobody asks for forks, they go right in. Compliments come quick for this crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Guests crowd around Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls when the main meal is late. People like to pop them in their mouth while talking. No one ever says no to these snacks. They keep everyone from getting too hungry before the main dish. Trays usually come back empty after these.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

People circle the table for Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board when dinner goes long. This board gives everyone plenty to nibble on while talking. You can pick up a little of everything without waiting your turn. Everyone shares and keeps spirits high. No one ever walks by without picking something up.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

When hunger hits before the holiday meal Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes save the day. People always reach for these crispy bites while standing at the table. No forks required so conversation never stops. They get snatched up quickly every time. The plate always comes back empty before main dishes appear.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Sausage Balls

As the wait drags on people start to grab Sausage Balls faster. These warm snacks keep hunger away for a while. Bites are small but full enough to keep people happy. Everyone in the group finds these easy to eat with one hand. More trays get requested every time.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Crostini Appetizers

Hungry guests crowd around Crostini Appetizers when dinner is behind schedule. These crunchy treats get passed around for everyone to try something different. Easy to pick up with no mess. Lots of flavors to keep conversation going. They disappear before the main meal arrives.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

Pigs in a Blanket

Delays bring out trays of Pigs in a Blanket to keep everyone smiling. It’s fun to eat these little snacks while mingling. You can hold them in one hand and still talk to everyone. These always spark excitement around a hungry group. Everyone wants seconds after the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Pizza Rolls

People waiting on dinner always go for Pizza Rolls if they see them waiting. Bite-sized rolls move fast from tray to table. Makes group chatting easy because they’re simple finger food. Nobody leaves any behind at the end of the night. Everyone looks for these if they show up again next year.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Charcuterie Board

When dinner gets pushed back Charcuterie Board is ready with something for everyone. There’s enough variety that nobody complains while waiting. You can build your plate or just grab your favorites quickly. Sharing keeps the mood light for the whole group. Most of the board will be gone by the time the main dish is ready.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

When everyone’s starving Bacon Wrapped Smokies keep the snacks interesting. They’re simple to pick up while chatting or moving around. Guests always ask about them since they go fast. No leftovers ever make it back to the kitchen. These are loved at every get-together when dinner’s behind.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Turkey Pinwheels

A long wait for dinner means people crowd around Turkey Pinwheels. They’re light enough for snacking but give a real bite. No one needs a napkin for these crowd pleasers. They keep everyone happy while waiting. It’s clear when you need to make more.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pinwheels

Potato Skins

Any wait feels shorter when people start on Potato Skins. These bites get passed from hand to hand fast. Everyone likes grabbing another while talking. They work for both big and small gatherings. Nothing is left once dinner time rolls around.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

When the spread takes forever people check the table for Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders. They’re filling enough to keep hunger away for longer. Each sandwich goes quickly because people love handheld snacks. Nobody uses a fork so everyone keeps talking with their friends. They always make waiting less of a drag.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Waiting for a big meal seems easier when Mini Hasselback Potatoes hit the table. These crispy bites look good and disappear fast. You can pop one in your mouth without stopping the conversation. People ask about them every year. Trays come back empty from every table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hasselback Potatoes