23 EASY AND DELICIOUS THANKSGIVING APPETIZER IDEAS

In this post i will be walking you through the 23 Thanksgiving appetizer ideas that will delight your family and guests.

Thanksgiving is not just about the main meal, it’s also a wonderful time to enjoy delightful appetizers that set the tone for the gathering.

These easy to make starters will impress your guests and keep everyone satisfied until the turkey is ready.

From savory bites to fresh dips, here are 23 thanksgiving appetizer ideas that will make your Thanksgiving celebration even more special.

23 EASY AND DELICIOUS THANKSGIVING APPETIZER IDEAS

1. Stuffed Mushrooms

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Stuffed mushrooms are a classic appetizer that brings rich flavours and a delightful texture to the table. They are easy to prepare and always a hit at parties.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb large mushrooms, stems removed
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

2. Mini Spinach and Feta Quiches

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These mini quiches are a perfect bite-sized treat packed with flavour. They are easy to make ahead of time and can be served warm or at room temperature.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 package of pre-made pastry shells or phyllo dough

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place pastry shells in a muffin tin. Fill each shell with spinach and feta, then pour egg mixture on top.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set.

3. Cranberry Brie Bites

These sweet and savory bites combine creamy brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce, all wrapped in a flaky pastry. They are perfect for adding a festive touch to your appetizer spread.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 wheel of brie cheese, cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into squares.
  3. Place a piece of brie and a teaspoon of cranberry sauce in the center of each square.
  4. Fold the corners over and pinch to seal. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
  5. Garnish with rosemary if desired.

4. Sweet Potato Bites

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These vibrant sweet potato rounds are not only nutritious but also delicious. Topped with cream cheese and a sprinkle of chives, they make for a colourful appetizer.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into rounds
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange sweet potato rounds on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Roast for 25 minutes until tender.
  4. Top each round with cream cheese and sprinkle with chives.

5. Caprese Skewers

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These fresh and colourful skewers are a delightful way to enjoy the classic Caprese salad flavours. They are easy to assemble and make for a light and refreshing appetizer.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Mozzarella balls
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper

• Instructions:
  1. On small skewers, thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball.
  2. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper before serving.

6. Deviled Eggs

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A classic appetizer, deviled eggs are always a crowd-pleaser. They are creamy, tangy, and easy to customize with different toppings.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 6 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Paprika for garnish

• Instructions:
  1. Slice the hard-boiled eggs in half and remove the yolks.
  2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fill each egg white with the yolk mixture and sprinkle with paprika.

7. Vegetable Platter with Hummus

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A colourful vegetable platter is a great way to provide a healthy option. Serve it with homemade or store-bought hummus for a delicious dip.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • Assorted vegetables (carrots, celery, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumber)
  • 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)

• Instructions:
  1. Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Arrange on a platter and serve with hummus in the center.

8. Spinach Artichoke Dip

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This creamy, cheesy dip is a favorite at gatherings. It’s warm, comforting, and pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or bread.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until combined.
  3. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

9. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

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Sweet and savory, these bacon-wrapped dates are a treat everyone will love. The combination of flavours makes them irresistible.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb bacon
  • 20 pitted dates
  • Toothpicks

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut bacon strips in half and wrap each date, securing with a toothpick.
  3. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy.

10. Cheese and Charcuterie Board

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A cheese and charcuterie board is visually appealing and allows guests to pick and choose their favourites. It’s a great way to showcase a variety of flavours.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • Assorted cheeses (cheddar, brie, goat cheese)
  • Cured meats (salami, prosciutto)
  • Crackers and bread
  • Nuts and dried fruits
  • Fresh grapes or figs

• Instructions:
  1. Arrange cheeses, meats, crackers, and accompaniments on a large board or platter.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch.

11. Savory Puff Pastry Twists

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These flaky, savory twists are fun to eat and packed with flavour. They are perfect for snacking and can be made with various fillings.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1/2 cup cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1/4 cup pesto
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into strips. Spread pesto and sprinkle cheese on top.
  3. Twist each strip and place on a baking sheet. Brush with egg wash.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.

12. Pumpkin Soup Shots

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These small servings of pumpkin soup add a seasonal touch to your appetizer spread. They are warming and perfect for sipping.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup cream
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a pot, combine pumpkin puree, broth, cream, pumpkin spice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat over medium until warmed through.
  3. Serve in small cups or shot glasses

13. Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip

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This creamy dip is packed with flavor from roasted garlic and is perfect for spreading on bread or dipping with veggies.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 bulb garlic, roasted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:
  1. In a food processor, combine white beans, roasted garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Blend until smooth and serve with pita chips or veggies.

14. Sweet and Spicy Meatballs

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You see, when it comes to thanksgiving appetizer ideas, meatballs are a must for me. i always make these and my family loves them.

These bite-sized meatballs are a delicious blend of sweet and spicy flavours. They are perfect for a hearty appetizer that’s easy to grab and go.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup grape jelly

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix meat, breadcrumbs, egg, and barbecue sauce. Form into small meatballs.
  3. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  4. In a saucepan, heat grape jelly and pour over cooked meatballs before serving.

15. Zucchini Fritters

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These crispy fritters are a great way to sneak in some veggies. They are light, flavorful, and perfect for dipping in sauce. These are also a good option amongs the thanksgiving appetizer ideas.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups grated zucchini
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine zucchini, flour, eggs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  3. Form into small patties and place on a baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

16. Chili Cheese Nachos

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Nachos are always a favourite! Layered with chili and cheese, they make for a fun and hearty appetizer.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • Tortilla chips
  • 1 can chili (or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • Jalapeños (optional)
  • Sour cream for serving

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. On a baking sheet, layer tortilla chips, chili, and cheese. Top with jalapeños if desired.
  3. Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted. Serve with sour cream.

17. Sausage Rolls

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Among the thanksgiving appetizer ideas, this is one of my favourite.

These savory sausage rolls are flaky and satisfying. They are perfect for a hearty appetizer that pairs well with mustard for dipping. This is a good

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb sausage meat (pork or chicken)
  • 1 sheet puff pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into rectangles.
  3. Place sausage meat in the center, fold over the pastry, and seal edges.
  4. Brush with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

18. Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil

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This fresh appetizer features ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil on toasted bread. It is a classic Italian dish that’s always a hit.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 baguette, sliced
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toast baguette slices in the oven for about 5 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Top toasted bread with the tomato mixture and serve.

19. Marinated Olives

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These marinated olives are a simple yet flavourful appetizer that adds a touch of elegance to your spread. They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups mixed olives (green and black)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary)

• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, combine olives, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
  2. Let marinate for at least 1 hour before serving.

20. Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts

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Baked brie is a warm, gooey delight that is perfect for sharing. Topped with honey and nuts, it’s a sweet and savory treat that will impress your guests.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 wheel of brie cheese
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans)

• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the brie on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until soft.
  3. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with nuts before serving.

21. Antipasto Skewers

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These skewers are a fun and easy way to enjoy a variety of antipasto ingredients. They are colorful and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for your appetizer spread.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Mozzarella balls
  • Salami slices
  • Olives
  • Fresh basil leaves

• Instructions:
  1. On small skewers, thread a cherry tomato, mozzarella ball, folded salami, olive, and basil leaf.
  2. Repeat until all ingredients are used.

22. Cucumber Sandwiches

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These refreshing cucumber sandwiches are light and tasty. They are perfect for balancing the heavier flavours of the holiday meal.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon dill, chopped
  • Bread (white or whole grain)

• Instructions:
  1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese and dill until combined.
  2. Spread cream cheese on bread slices, layer with cucumber, and top with another slice of bread. Cut into quarters.

23. Pumpkin Deviled Eggs

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Put a seasonal twist on classic deviled eggs with pumpkin puree and spices. They are a unique and festive addition to your appetizer lineup.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 6 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:
  1. Slice hard-boiled eggs in half and remove yolks.
  2. In a bowl, mash yolks with pumpkin puree, mayonnaise, mustard, pumpkin spice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fill each egg white with the mixture and serve.

With these 23 easy and delicious Thanksgiving appetizer ideas, you can create a spread that will delight your guests and enhance your holiday celebration. From savory bites to fresh flavours, each recipe is simple to prepare and packed with taste.

Enjoy the cooking process, share these treats with your loved ones, and make this Thanksgiving unforgettable.