Thanksgiving is a time to gather, laugh, and share in the joy of good food. While the turkey and sides take center stage, appetizers play a crucial role in setting the tone for the meal.
They keep hungry guests satisfied while you put the finishing touches on the main course and bring a touch of creativity and variety to your Thanksgiving spread.
The beauty of Thanksgiving appetizers lies in their simplicity. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something memorable.
With a little creativity, you can serve up crowd-pleasers that are easy to prepare, festive, and downright delicious.
Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a smaller celebration, these 23 easy Thanksgiving appetizers will keep your guests happy and hungry for more.
23 Easy Thanksgiving Appetizers
1. Cranberry Brie Bites
Mini phyllo cups filled with creamy Brie and tart cranberry sauce are a bite-sized delight.
2. Deviled Eggs with Bacon
A classic with a twist—creamy deviled eggs topped with crispy bacon bits.
3. Sweet Potato Crostini
Toasted baguette slices topped with mashed sweet potatoes, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
4. Pumpkin Hummus
A festive twist on a classic dip, perfect for pairing with pita chips or veggie sticks.
5. Mini Cheese Balls
Individually rolled cheese balls coated in nuts, cranberries, or herbs for a fun and easy finger food.
6. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Creamy, cheesy, and perfect served with crackers or crusty bread.
7. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Shooters
Tiny cups of warm, velvety butternut squash soup topped with a dollop of sour cream.
8. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Thin spears of asparagus wrapped in salty prosciutto and baked until crispy.
9. Stuffed Mushrooms
Button mushrooms filled with a savory mix of breadcrumbs, garlic, and cheese.
10. Cranberry Meatballs
Juicy meatballs coated in a tangy cranberry glaze for the perfect holiday flavor.
11. Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls
Flaky puff pastry filled with sausage and baked to golden perfection.
12. Pecan-Crusted Goat Cheese Logs
Goat cheese rolled in chopped pecans and served with crackers for a simple yet elegant appetizer.
13. Mini Pumpkin Pies
Sweet pumpkin pie filling baked into mini tart shells for a dessert-inspired appetizer.
14. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Sweet, sticky dates wrapped in crispy bacon—an irresistible combination.
15. Cheese and Charcuterie Board
A simple arrangement of cheeses, cured meats, nuts, and fruits for a crowd-pleasing platter.
16. Cranberry and Brie Crostini
Toasted baguette slices topped with Brie, cranberry sauce, and a sprig of thyme.
17. Veggie Platter with Ranch Dip
A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables arranged like a turkey, complete with a creamy dip.
18. Mini Pot Pies
Tiny, flaky pot pies filled with turkey or chicken and vegetables—comfort food in bite-sized form.
19. Garlic Parmesan Knots
Warm, buttery knots of dough brushed with garlic and Parmesan cheese.
19. Garlic Parmesan Knots
Warm, buttery knots of dough brushed with garlic and Parmesan cheese.
20. Shrimp Cocktail
A classic appetizer that’s always a hit, served with tangy cocktail sauce.
21. Apple and Cheddar Skewers
A sweet and savory combination of apple slices and sharp cheddar cubes threaded onto skewers.
22. Cranberry Salsa
A zesty salsa made with fresh cranberries, jalapeños, and cilantro, served with tortilla chips.
23. Mini Caprese Skewers
Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing bite.
FAQs:
How far in advance can I prepare these appetizers?
Many of these appetizers, like mini cheese balls or cranberry salsa, can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble and garnish before serving to keep them fresh.
What’s the easiest appetizer to serve on Thanksgiving?
A cheese and charcuterie board is one of the simplest options—it requires no cooking and can be customized to suit your tastes.
Are there vegetarian appetizer options on this list?
Yes! Dishes like pumpkin hummus, spinach and artichoke dip, and mini Caprese skewers are all vegetarian-friendly.
How can I save time while preparing Thanksgiving appetizers?
Opt for recipes that use pre-made ingredients, like puff pastry or pre-washed vegetables, to cut down on prep time.
Can I scale these appetizers for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Most of these recipes are easy to double or triple to accommodate more guests.
Bottom Line:
Thanksgiving appetizers don’t have to be complicated to impress your guests. These 23 easy ideas bring festive flavors and minimal prep to your holiday spread, leaving you more time to focus on the main event—or simply enjoy the day with loved ones.
From savory bites to sweet treats, there’s something here to please everyone at your table.
With these appetizers in your repertoire, you’ll kick off Thanksgiving in style and keep the holiday spirit alive from the first bite to the last. Happy Thanksgiving!