81 Party Appetizers Worth Serving (and When to Serve Them) in 2026

Party appetizers aren’t the star of the table, but they do help the night run more smoothly. Their job is to smooth that awkward early stretch when guests arrive at different times and when no one quite knows where to stand yet.

Experienced hosts treat party appetizers as timing tools, not just snacks. Even modern hosts think about appetizers this way. In an interview reported by Tasting Table, Martha Stewart notes that she avoids serving random packaged snacks when hosting, preferring intentional hors d’oeuvres that suit the occasion and signal what kind of gathering it is — casual, elegant or somewhere in between.

When you need food that can sit out while people mingle, make-ahead options matter. When guests will be standing or moving around, finger foods do the heavy lifting. And when timing is unpredictable, cold appetizers keep things flexible without stress.

This list is built around those moments. Instead of asking “what sounds good,” it helps you choose party appetizers based on how your event actually unfolds.

Jump to Section

• Simple Party Appetizers
• Best Appetizers to Bring to a Party
• Easy Party Appetizers to Make Ahead
• Easy Party Appetizers for Adults
• Cold Appetizers for a Party
• No-Cook Finger Foods for Parties
• Best Christmas Party Appetizers
• Best Thanksgiving Party Appetizers
• Best Super Bowl Party Appetizers
• Best Tea Party Appetizers
• Best Tailgate Party Appetizers

Simple Party Appetizers

This category works best when arrival times are staggered and you don’t know who’s walking in when. These party appetizers that can sit out for a while without spoiling, don’t need reheating and still feel fine whether someone grabs a bite right away or later on.

1. Bruschetta

Party food doesn’t have to be complicated, and one of the simplest options for a delicious appetizer is bruschetta. This Italian antipasto specialty consists of grilled bread topped with olive oil and tomatoes, but it’s easy to update with your own twists or seasonal variations.

2. Hummus

Hummus is a very forgiving party appetizer. It goes with many other appetizers and sits out well throughout an event. It's traditionally made from chickpeas and olive oil, but there are plenty of ways to make it your own with flavor variations. Make your own at home or opt for a store-bought version to keep things simple.

3. Pigs in a Blanket

If you’re looking for party appetizers that reliably please a crowd, pigs in a blanket are a safe bet. Make them with cocktail smokies and crescent rolls, or use higher-end sausage and puff pastry to create a more high-end version. Adding spices or a good mustard can give this classic a little extra punch.

4. Butter-Baked Crackers

One of the simplest party appetizers to make and bring to your next function is butter-baked crackers. Start by arranging a basic cracker, like saltines, on a baking sheet, then pour melted butter over the crackers and bake until they are toasty and golden. You can spice them up by adding seasonings if you like, but the basic version works just fine.

5. Homemade Salsa

Chips and salsa are an iconic appetizer, but you can up your salsa game by making it at home using the freshest ingredients. Go with a traditional red salsa, try salsa verde or lean into a fruity mango version for summer gatherings.

6. Bacon and Cheese Dip

Bacon always comes up when there are appetizers because it's forgiving and full of salty flavor, which complements other flavors so well. For something a little different, try a bacon and cheese dip made with cheddar, cream cheese, sour cream and scallions.

7. Spicy Nut Mix

Sometimes, simple party appetizers are best. A bowl of spicy nut mix works well at cocktail parties or dinner gatherings, whether you buy it ready-made or make your own.

8. Boneless Buffalo Wings

You can’t go wrong with something simple like boneless buffalo wings. Serve up a tray of these protein-packed party favorites with a dish of toothpicks so that your guests can graze without getting their fingers dirty.

Best Appetizers to Bring to a Party

When you’re a guest, convenience matters more than presentation. That's why it's important to choose party appetizers that travel well, don’t require last-minute assembly and won’t put pressure on the host to make space or find extra serving gear.

9. Guacamole

Guacamole is one of the most reliable party appetizers when you’re feeding a crowd. You can add your own mix-ins, make it as creamy or chunky as you like or even pick it up on the way to the party if you're in a rush. Just be sure it’s fresh so the avocados don’t have time to brown.

10. Mini Quiches

No matter what time of day your party is, mini quiches are a solid addition to the menu. They work well for brunches and bridal showers as a light bite, or at dinner parties as a pre-meal appetizer. You can stick with traditional flavors like Quiche Florentine or Quiche Lorraine, or adjust the fillings to suit your party menu.

11. Italian Party Bread

Use homemade dough or store-bought pizza dough to create an appetizer most hosts will be happy to receive. Filled with prosciutto, spicy banana peppers, pesto and cheese, this bread packs familiar Italian flavors into a shareable loaf.

12. Lobster Mac & Cheese Bites

Lobster macaroni and cheese is rich on its own, but baking it into mini muffin cups turns it into an easy bite-sized appetizer. To simplify prep, use pre-cooked lobster meat and add it to your favorite mac and cheese recipe. Spoon the mixture into mini muffin tins, top with breadcrumbs and bake.

13. Focaccia

Next time you are invited to a dinner party, surprise your hosts by bringing a delicious homemade focaccia. You can go with the basic recipe or add tomatoes, herbs or other toppings to customize it without much extra effort.

14. Crab Cake Bites

If crab cakes are a favorite when dining out, a simplified homemade version works well as a party appetizer. Using crab meat, breadcrumbs and a mix of spices, you can shape them into small, bite-sized portions that serve up well with other party appetizers.

15. Samosas

These savory South Asian pastries make a wonderful party appetizer because of their versatility. They can be filled with so many different fillings, from traditional potato and vegetable versions to heartier chicken options.

16. Goat Cheese and Onion Tart

If you want to bring party appetizers with more developed flavors, a puff pastry tart is an easy option. Instead of using the standard cream cheese in your tart, use whipped goat cheese mixed with caramelized onion and pair it with a sweeter fruit option like fig jam to bring balance without complicating the dish.

Easy Party Appetizers to Make Ahead

This section is for hosts who want the food handled before the doorbell rings. Everything here can be prepped in advance, so you’re not juggling timing once people arrive.

17. Slow Cooker Mini-Meatballs

The days leading up to a big party can be chaotic, so why not plan your appetizers ahead of time? Break out the slow cooker and create mini-meatballs that can be simmering and ready to eat when your guests arrive. Pair with a traditional chili-style sauce and add in some grape or fruit jam for an extra kick of flavor. It might seem like an odd combo, but trust us, it works.

18. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This is a classic party appetizer for a reason. Made with cream cheese, mayonnaise, artichoke hearts and spinach, it can be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving, or kept warm in a slow cooker once guests arrive.

19. Cowboy Caviar

Cowboy caviar is a cold dip made with a mix of vegetables like beans, corn, tomatoes, jalapeños and cilantro. Add some lime juice to help bring the flavors together. Making it a day ahead of time gives everything time to settle before the party.

20. Olive Tapenade

Olive tapenade is another easy party appetizer to make ahead. The salty, savory spread works well on crackers or bruschetta and is typically made with olives, lemon juice, pepper, anchovies and capers.

21. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad works well as an appetizer or side dish and doesn’t require much preparation. Since it’s served cold, you can cook the pasta and mix in your ingredients ahead of time. Customize your own mix, or use a classic boxed mix from the grocery store to save even more time.

22. Ceviche

Ceviche, which comes from Peru, is commonly served as a party appetizer. While it’s traditionally made with raw fish or shrimp marinated with vegetables, you can boil the shrimp first if you prefer. It’s easy to adjust based on your menu.

23. Caramelized Onion Dip

A creamy caramelized onion dip is a solid make-ahead option that pairs well with pretzels, chips or crackers. The most time-consuming step is caramelizing the onions, but once that’s done, the rest comes together quickly with ingredients like Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic powder and fresh herbs.

24. Bacon Jam

Jams are often associated with fruit, but bacon jam offers a savory alternative that can be made ahead. You can buy it pre-made or simmer bacon, onion, garlic, brown sugar and maple syrup yourself, then let it cool before serving as part of a spread or alongside other party appetizers.

25. Pulled Pork Sliders

For a heartier make-ahead option, pulled pork sliders work well. Preparing the pork in a slow cooker ahead of time lets guests assemble their own sliders once the party is underway.

26. Veggie Cups

A veggie tray is common at many parties, but it can be awkward to manage. Try placing the veggies in small cups ahead of time. Then all you need to do is set out a dipping sauce like ranch for guests to drizzle over the veggies in their cups.

Easy Party Appetizers for Adults

These party appetizers work for gatherings where people are settling in rather than passing through. The food is a little more substantial, often paired with drinks and meant to hold attention without replacing the meal.

27. Sheet Pan Nachos

Nachos are a great snack food for sporting events and more, so why not make a large, party-sized tray for guests to enjoy before the party starts? All you’ll need to do is prepare your nachos on a large baking sheet. Add whatever cheeses, peppers and veggies you like, then bake until the cheese is melted and the chips are crispy. 

28. Chicken Nuggets

While it might not seem like the most high-brow party appetizer, chicken nuggets are a huge crowd pleaser. You can prepare them from frozen bags from the supermarket, order a catering tray from your favorite establishment, or make them from scratch in the oven or air fryer for a protein-packed appetizer.

29. Fried Calamari

Fried calamari brings a restaurant-style feel to your party appetizers. You can certainly make these from scratch if you choose, but you can also find frozen versions that cook up nicely in the air fryer or deep-fat fryer.

30. Meatball Sliders

For a hearty appetizer that packs a punch, slow-cooker meatballs paired with sweet rolls work well, and they can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.

31. Bacon-Wrapped Crackers

Sometimes the best appetizers are the simplest. To make them place Parmesan cheese on a cracker and then wrap in bacon. Cook low and slow in the oven and serve when your guests arrive.

32. Stove-Top Popcorn

If you're hosting a movie night or casual dinner party for friends, stove-top popcorn can be a nice addition to the menu. Pair with different seasoning options so guests can choose their own flavor profile. 

33. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

As we've noted, bacon is a big player in the appetizer world. It's rich, savory flavors complement so many things. For this bacon-inspired party appetizer, wrap the bacon around dates paired with goat cheese for a truly delicious experience.

34. Pizza Pinwheels

If you’re not serving pizza at dinner but still want to offer your guests a classic, pizza-inspired appetizer, try easy pinwheels made from puff pastry. Using puff pastry with red sauce, cheese and diced pizza toppings. Slice before baking for a cute, pizza appetizer.

Cold Appetizers for a Party

Cold party appetizers are useful when timing is unpredictable. They don’t rely on perfect serving windows and still hold up if the party stretches longer than planned.

35. Fruit Platter

Add some color and healthy sweets to your table by setting up a fruit platter as an appetizer. It works especially well for brunches or daytime gatherings and balances out richer party appetizers. Check out these fruit tray ideas for more inspiration.

36. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic in many parts of the U.S., and they’re easy to customize. From traditional versions to buffalo-style or even fried deviled eggs, there are plenty of ways to keep them interesting. Not sure where to begin with this popular item for foodies? First, use our guide to find out how long to boil eggs, and then move on to step-by-step instructions on how to make deviled eggs.

37. Charcuterie Board

Charcuterie boards have been trending for a while now, and they certainly make the list as one of the best party appetizers. Because a charcuterie board is endlessly customizable, it is the perfect option no matter what type of party you're throwing.

38. Pimiento Cheese

Pimiento cheese is a Southern staple, and it can be made ahead and served cold at your party, which makes it an extra-easy party appetizer. Serve it on crusty bread or with crackers.

39. Melon and Prosciutto Skewers

Putting food on skewers is a great way to turn something you’d normally need a fork and knife for into finger food. For this party appetizer, pair cheese, melon and prosciutto for a sweet and salty skewer that will make your guests happy.

40. Seven Layer Dip Cups

For more cold party appetizer ideas, serve up individual-sized portions of seven-layer dip in clear plastic cups. Your guests will be able to see all seven layers and have a perfectly-sized portion that is easy to carry around the room as they mingle.

No-Cook Finger Foods for Parties

This is the low-effort category. These party appetizers make sense when you don’t want to turn on the oven, when space is limited or when the kitchen isn’t where the party is happening.

41. Caprese Skewers

Caprese salad is a crowd favorite, so why not make it into an appetizer? Slide cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese and basil onto a skewer and drizzle with olive oil for an easy, no-cook finger food. 

42. Chips and Salsa

Perhaps one of the easiest (and most popular) no-cook appetizers is chips and salsa. With different types of salsas to choose from to different shapes and sizes of tortilla chips, you can truly customize this dish to fit your menu. Try a sweet mango salsa for a different approach, or stick with store-bought ingredients to make things easier on you.

43. Sweet and Salty Snack Mix

Snack mixes like Chex Mix, can make for an easy appetizer that needs little to no prep. Place in a large serving bowl and allow guests to scoop some onto their plates, or pre-portion into small snack cups. You can even use mini ice cream cones for a cute way to hold the sweet and salty mix.

44. Veggie Platter

One of the easiest non-cook party appetizers is a vegetable tray. And while veggies are great on their own, they can also be the perfect items to dip into a tasty dip. To really save time, you can purchase a veggie tray in the produce section of your supermarket.

45. Easy Mix Ranch Dip

Party appetizers don’t have to be labor-intensive. Try making a basic ranch dip using sour cream and a mix-in packet. Of course, if you want to elevate the dip by adding spinach or other vegetables, you can, but the basic is great on its own.

46. Fruit Skewers

For a fruit tray with a twist, try putting the different elements of your fruit salad on long skewers so that guests can easily grab one and walk around the party.

Best Christmas Party Appetizers

Holiday parties tend to be busy, layered and long. Festive party appetizers work alongside heavier meals, multiple courses and guests moving in and out of rooms.

47. Baked Brie

Baked brie is a simple but reliable Christmas party appetizer. It works well on its own, or topped with jams, nuts or herbs to lean into seasonal flavors.

48. Olive and Cheese Wreath

For a festive take on an appetizer platter, arrange olives, mozzarella cheese and grapes or cherry tomatoes into a wreath shape. Use herb leaves as a backdrop and serve with a dish of toothpicks so that guests can take what they like from the tray.

49. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a party staple, and they're a great addition to your list of Christmas party foods. Fill with breadcrumbs, garlic and savory cheeses for a real crowd-pleaser.

50. Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

Make seasonal party appetizers by shaping filled puff pastry into a Christmas Tree. Once baked, guests dig in by pulling apart the pastry to access the delicious fillings inside.

51. Beer Cheese Fondue

During the cold winter months, warm cheese fondue can be just the thing. An entire dinner of fondue might be quite heavy, but setting out a small fondue station with items for dipping before dinner begins makes an excellent party appetizer.

52. Spinach Rolls with Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is a good ingredient to have on hand during the holidays because there are so many simple party appetizers that can be made with it. Use it to create savory spinach rolls and serve them warm as your guests arrive.

53. Figs Stuffed with Goat Cheese

For a sweet-and-savory option, fill figs with goat cheese and serve as an easy, bite-sized appetizer.

Best Thanksgiving Party Appetizers

Thanksgiving appetizers have a narrow job: take the edge off without competing with dinner. Smaller portions and lighter flavors matter more here than variety.

54. Whipped Feta

Most Thanksgiving food ideas revolve around turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce, so why not make Thanksgiving appetizers that are a bit lighter? Whipped feta can be served with a variety of breads and crackers and is the perfect precursor to a heavy holiday meal.

55. Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels

Give a nod to traditional holiday favorites by making easy pinwheel sandwiches. Layer turkey and cranberry sauce into the pastry and then bake for a simple Thanksgiving appetizer.

56. Deviled Potatoes

You’ve heard of deviled eggs, but have you ever heard of deviled potatoes? Deviled potatoes take the idea of deviled eggs and shift it into potato form. Serving them inside the skins keeps portions small and manageable before dinner.

57. Everything Spice-Coated Cheese Ball

Cheese balls may feel retro, but they still show up at Thanksgiving for a reason. Rolling one in everything seasoning gives it a more current edge without losing the appeal.

58. Cinnamon and Sugar Roasted Pecans

Not all appetizers have to be savory. Roast pecans with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat your guests will love. Do this right before the party starts and fill your home with the comforting smell of cinnamon sugar.

59. Light and Minty Spinach Dip

Instead of using mayonnaise for your spinach dip, try substituting cream cheese for a lighter taste. Add in a handful of fresh herbs like mint and dill for a new take on an old classic.

60. Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Mashed and smashed potatoes are great side dishes, but they can also be great party appetizers when smashed and baked until crispy. Your guests will love this traditional Thanksgiving favorite-turned-appetizer.

Best Super Bowl Party Appetizers

Game-day food needs to survive distractions. Party appetizers like these work here because they can be eaten in short bursts, don’t require utensils and make sense even when no one’s watching the table.

61. Buffalo Wings

No list of Super Bowl foods would be complete without buffalo wings. Order them from your favorite wing spot or make them at home for a delicious, saucy party appetizer.

62. Jalapeño Poppers

Jalapeño poppers are another staple when it comes to big game food. For a quick option, try the frozen versions at the grocery store, or make your own and customize to your taste and preferred level of spice.

63. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Whether you bake your buffalo chicken dip in the oven or cook it in the crockpot, this savory dip gets all of the kick of a buffalo wing in an easy-to-spread form. It’s best enjoyed right out of the oven or hot from the crockpot. 

64. Crispy Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls

Spring rolls and egg rolls are the perfect party appetizers for watching the big game. Fill with traditional fillings or make your own version using unique flavor combinations.

65. Fried Pickles

Try using the air fryer to cook up a batch of crispy, salty fried pickles. Then serve hot with a cool ranch dip for maximum enjoyment.

66. Mini Pizzas

If you’re hosting a Super Bowl party but don’t want to order giant pizzas for everyone to split, why not make mini pizzas on bagels or puff pastry as a cute finger food option? If you’re health-conscious, you can also bake them on slices of zucchini instead of bread for a low-carb version.

67. Potato Skins

Make crispy potato skins filled with bacon, cheese and green onion for delicious party appetizers that will surely be a favorite at your next Super Bowl party. Pair with sour cream so your guests can customize it to their tastes. 

Best Tea Party Appetizers

Tea parties are all about design and petite sizes, so you'll need party appetizers that fit into smaller plates, slower pacing and a setting where people are seated and eating in shorter intervals.

68. Finger Sandwiches

Tea party foods are often served on a tiered platter for easy access, and many of them are already bite-sized finger foods. Try a cooling cucumber sandwich for a traditional take, or add chicken salad or pimiento cheese finger sandwiches to your next tea party menu.

69. Mini Cookies

Serve up sweet party appetizers at your next tea party by making mini cookies like these Valentine's Day cookies. You don’t always have to save dessert for last. Mini cookies also make for brilliant Thanksgiving desserts to munch on between meals.

70. Egg Salad

Egg salad can be customized in many ways, and it is a great dish to include on a lighter menu for events like tea parties. To turn this traditional side dish into a finger food, serve it as a finger sandwich or in a mini wrap form.

71. Cheese Straws

Perhaps the most classic baby shower food, cheese straws are a perfect salty snack to include on the menu at your next tea party. Make your own or find a local bakery that sells them pre-made. 

72. Mini Pastries

Mini pastries add visual appeal without overwhelming the table. Small croissants, danishes or cinnamon rolls give guests something familiar to nibble on alongside tea.

73. Asparagus Ribbon Crostini

Crostini is a popular party appetizer that can be customized in different ways. For an upscale take, make an easy crostini using ricotta cheese and finely sliced asparagus ribbons. Season with mint and lemon zest for an easy tea party appetizer.

74. Scones with Clotted Cream

Scones with clotted cream and jam are a staple at tea parties, so why not make an appetizer version for your guests to enjoy? Serve mini scones already spread with cream and jam so they can grab one and mingle without having to use a knife to spread cream and jam on the scone.

Best Tailgate Party Appetizers

Tailgates come with constraints — limited prep space, fewer tools and lots of movement. These party appetizers need to travel well, be easy to serve and not fall apart once they’re out.

75. Sausage Balls

Spicy Bisquick sausage balls are a great tailgate food idea. While they are delicious right out of the oven, you can also enjoy them at room temperature in your tailgate tent.

76. Veggies and Ranch

One easy tailgate party appetizer is a tray of veggies and ranch dip. Broccoli, carrots, celery and bell peppers can be eaten raw with ranch for a good (and healthy!) snack.

77. Chips and Dip

Packing up to go for a tailgate doesn’t have to be a chore if you opt for store-bought party appetizers like chips and dip. Pre-made French onion dip and classic potato chips travel well and are a great snack to munch on before the game.

78. Ham and Swiss Sliders

Bake ham and cheese into a sweet Hawaiian roll for a gooey and delicious slider. Make it before you hit the road and serve as soon as you get your tailgate set up.

79. Barbecue Chicken Bites

Barbecue chicken bites work well for tailgates because they can be cooked ahead and served in small portions. Toothpicks keep things tidy, and leftovers can easily move to the grill later.

80. Bacon-Wrapped Smokies

Ready for some more bacon? Take cocktail sausages and wrap them in bacon before baking. Skewer on toothpicks and enjoy for an easy-to-eat tailgate snack.

81. Taquitos

Wrap beef and cheese in mini tortillas and roll up to create taquitos. Then cook on the stovetop with some butter and spices to make the tortillas crisp up and stick together. You can enjoy them hot or package them up to take to the game as a crispy tailgate snack. 

Good party appetizers aren’t about variety for variety’s sake. They’re about knowing what the moment needs and serving food that fits it. Get that right, and everything else falls into place.

For even more fun party planning ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!