I Just Wanted Something Easy And Made These 29 Appetizers

Deciding not to decide is underrated, especially when it leads to a table full of 29 appetizer-style solutions. It’s the ultimate move when meals feel like a chore but eating still matters. People start circling back for seconds, and suddenly you’ve started a trend without meaning to.

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.

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.

Onion rings have a simple charm that comes from their crispy coating and soft center. Crunchy Onion Rings are a snack everyone can grab and enjoy with dipping sauces. They’re perfect for munching anytime with friends or family. The crunch and the onion together make it hard to stop at just one.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Close-up of beef and cheese sliders with toasted buns on a white surface.
Philly Cheesesteak Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sliders packed with beef, cheese, and a good roll make Philly Cheesesteak Sliders an easy win. They’re a smaller take on a hearty sandwich but still feel filling. The combination works for a variety of gatherings without being messy. Just grab a slider, and you’ve got a full bite in your hand.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Cranberry Brie Bites

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

Sweet and savory bites like Cranberry Brie Bites combine unexpected flavors in small, handheld form. These bite-sized portions appeal to both sweet lovers and cheese fans alike. They’re easy to share and great for switching up your usual snack routine. No plate needed—just grab and pop into your mouth.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Messy, cheesy, and a little spicy, Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos bring everyone to the snack table. They’re piled high with chicken and all the toppings you might like. This dish just screams “game day” or “casual hangout” food. A quick grab-and-go option that doesn’t sacrifice boldness in flavor.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

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.

Bite-sized and packed with protein, Sausage Balls are easy to pop and enjoy. These small snacks have a hearty, savory appeal that works great for a busy gathering. They hold up well over time and aren’t messy to eat. A nice little appetizer that keeps people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Party Crostini

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

Small toasted pieces of bread topped with a mix of flavors make Party Crostini a versatile choice. It’s easy to mix up toppings depending on who’s eating. Crisp and loaded on top, they’re perfect for balancing snackers’ cravings. Plus, they’re a little fancy without being difficult to eat.
Get the Recipe: Party Crostini

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tangy and nutty, Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a unique spin on regular chicken salad. This version works great on small bread pieces or crackers for an easy snack. It’s one of those foods that tastes like more effort went into it than it might have. It feels light, but the flavor goes a long way.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

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.

Crispy skins with a loaded center make Loaded Potato Skins more than just potatoes. Each bite is packed with toppings people already love. These are great for sit-down snacking or casual parties where eating with your hands feels right. You’ll want to share but might just keep a couple for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños.
Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Light, crispy batter makes Shrimp Tempura a favorite for seafood lovers. These are great for an appetizer plate that feels fun but is still easy to grab. They don’t feel heavy, yet they’re filling enough for a small snack. Simple dipping sauce pairs perfectly without feeling over the top.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

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.

If you like variations, Crostini Appetizers let you mix it up while keeping it simple. They’re toasted and perfect for adding a combination of toppings for everyone. The bite-size prep helps balance seconds and keeps the party moving. No-fuss, just crunchy bread and flavor-packed bites.
Get the Recipe: Crostini Appetizers

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.

Wrapping something in dough always draws attention, and Pigs in a Blanket prove why. These mini snacks are easy to eat and remind everyone of something familiar. The small, grab-and-go format is perfect for quick bites. A party classic you can never really go wrong with.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket

Steak Fajita Nacho

A tray of loaded nachos topped with sliced beef, red and green peppers, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream, and lime wedges on the side.
Steak Fajita Nacho. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nachos with steak feel a bit more filling, and Steak Fajita Nacho adds just the right punch. The mix of toppings pairs with everything else stacked on chips. These feel like more of a hearty snack than others but still have the ease of finger food. You won’t mind how quickly you reach for another.
Get the Recipe: Steak Fajita Nacho

Potato Skins

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

Simplistic yet flavorful, Potato Skins are crispy on the outside with soft fillings inside. A few small bites and you get that hearty comfort food vibe. They’re an easy go-to when you want something baked but not too complicated. Whether plain or packed, they deliver enough to feel snack-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Off-the-cob takes make Mexican Street Corn Salad all about managing flavor in each forkful. It’s easy to share without the mess of eating corn straight. The balance of creaminess and texture keeps things interesting as a side or appetizer. Perfect for group settings where light dishes are welcome.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

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

Balancing meat and richness between soft bread, Ham and Cheese Sliders fit into almost any event. Each handheld piece offers that salty and gooey mix snackers love. They’re a quick solution for finger foods that feel filling in just a few bites. Perfect for kids and adults alike without much preparation.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

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.

Simple and fresh, Shrimp Cocktail is one of those snacks where less is often more. A cool option to balance richer appetizers, it’s always gone quickly at events. The dipping sauce pulls everything together without complicating flavors. Ideal for when guests crave something on the lighter side.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cocktail

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.

A mix of meats, cheeses, and extras makes Charcuterie Board less of a dish and more of an event centerpiece. Everyone gets to pick what they want without needing extra utensils. It works for casual snacking or something fancier depending on how much variety you include. Great for feeding all tastes.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When pinwheels get stuffed, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel combines a fun shape with unexpected filling. The layer-by-layer effect slices easily and feels so shareable. The mix of spicy and creamy keeps each bite unique without needing to change things up. Perfect for grab-and-go appetizers without being messy.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown Maryland crab cakes garnished with herbs on a white plate, complemented by a fresh parsley garnish.
Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fresh and packed with seafood, Maryland Crab Cake is always a great pick for seafood lovers. They’re substantial for small snacks but don’t feel overwhelming. Each bite has that recognizable flavor that screams coastal cuisine. Perfect to pair with dipping sauce or eat alone with no extras needed.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Queso Dip

Close-up of creamy cheese dip being poured over chopped tomato salsa with diced onions and cilantro.
Queso Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Melted and perfect for dunking, Queso Dip keeps things simple while appealing to everyone. It goes great with chips or even poured lightly on other snacks. A crowd-pleaser every time you don’t feel like having something overly complex. It’s creamy, warm, and almost impossible to mess up.
Get the Recipe: Queso Dip

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli in a mixing bowl with a spoon in it, garlic cloves, and dill around it.
Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spreads like Garlic Aioli double as dips and toppings for almost any appetizer. It’s creamy and has an unmistakable flavor that pairs well with veggies or bread. A simple addition that adds a little extra to whatever you’re serving. Think of it as an upgrade without complicating your snack.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

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.

When cheesy, creamy chicken shows up, Crack Chicken Dip takes the lead for chip-friendly snacks. It’s one of those dips that everyone gravitates to even if they’ve had it before. It holds up great all event long and works well as a warm option. Just set it out, and folks will keep going back for another scoop.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip

Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potato cubes on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Roasted and easy to snack on, Sweet Potato Cubes offer a healthy-ish option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. These little bites are both filling and shareable. No heavy sauces needed—they pretty much hold their flavor alone. A snack that’s as simple as it gets while still fitting in at any party.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cubes

Cowboy Caviar

Close-up of a mixed salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, black beans, chickpeas, corn, cucumber, red onion, and parsley, being drizzled with dressing.
Cowboy Caviar. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A mix of different textures and types of crunch makes Cowboy Caviar a crowd favorite. It can double as a dip for chips or just spoon it on its own as a snack. It’s light and mixes so many tasty bits into one easy-to-share bowl. Something quick to throw together that’ll all go by the end of the party.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

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.

Spicy meets creamy with Buffalo Chicken Dip, and it’s a go-to for gatherings. The chicken adds a hearty factor, while the kick makes it memorable. It’s one of those dips that stays a favorite year-round no matter the occasion. Perfect with chips or bread for dipping and spreading.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Grilled Shrimp Kebobs

A white plate holds grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Kebobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Shrimp on a stick like Grilled Shrimp Kebobs feels snack-sized without being messy. The grilling adds just the right char while keeping the shrimp center-stage. Easy to grab and less fussy than lots of seafood plates. Great outdoors or inside for hands-free eating.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kebobs

Cheese Ball

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

With a soft texture and bold flavors, Cheese Ball makes snacking on crackers or veggies even better. It’s prepped for grab-and-go bites while keeping things flavorful. A perfect go-to when you want something creamy without much hassle. Slice it, scoop it, or just add a cracker and call it a snack.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball

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.

Small toast pieces topped with shrimp make Shrimp Toast the perfect finger food. It’s crunchy and balanced out with soft bits of seafood. Great for appetizers when you want bite-sized options without forks. It’s simple, quick, and always one of the faster snacks to disappear at events.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Toast

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.

Swirled layers of fillings make Pinwheel Sandwiches as fun to look at as they are to bite into. They’re filling without being heavy and so easy to grab. Great for whatever combination of flavors you’re in the mood for in a small bite. These snacks are quick to roll up and even quicker to eat.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

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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