19 appetizer recipes that will steal the show

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These 19 appetizer recipes will steal the show at your next gathering. From easy-to-prepare options to more adventurous creations, each recipe will impress party guests without requiring endless hours of preparation. Whether you’re preparing a menu as a first-time host or need a quick dish-to-pass recipe, you’ll find dishes here that are both straightforward to make and memorable in flavor.

A pan of taco dip with cream cheese, vegetables, and shredded cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Zucchini boats stuffed with bacon and sour cream.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These crowd-pleasers, Loaded Zucchini Boats, is topped with bacon and sour cream, making it a show-stealing appetizer reminiscent of traditional potato skins. Ideal for casual gatherings, it promises to impress guests. Enjoy the simplicity of this dish that’s great for any party.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Jalapeño spinach artichoke dip in a white dish with a spoon.
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip blends the heat of jalapeño, the freshness of spinach and artichokes, and the richness of cream cheese. This combo creates an unforgettable appetizer sure to steal the show. Perfect for people who are new to cooking and need a dish to pass, this dip keeps things straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are a weekend party’s dream appetizer. They’re packed with chicken, bacon, and ranch, making them a sure hit. They’re simple to make, perfect for dipping, and will undoubtedly impress guests.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Taco Dip with Cream Cheese comes together quickly in just 15 minutes. Combining cream cheese with taco seasoning, it’s perfect for dipping chips or vegetable slices into. This appetizer is a total crowd-pleaser for any party it’s made for.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

Bacon Wrapped Peppers ready to enjoy.
Bacon Wrapped Peppers. Photo Credit: Real Balanced.

Experience a burst of flavor with these Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers. Stuffed with cream cheese, these peppers are a prime pick for hosts aiming to keep things uncomplicated yet impressive. They’re a surefire way to make your appetizer spread the talk of the party.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Mini Peppers

Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats

A cucumber boat with tomatoes and bacon on it.
Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Opt for these Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats when planning a hassle-free party menu. Quick to assemble in 10 minutes, they’re crunchy and full of flavor. They’re an excellent choice to ensure your appetizer selection is a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats

Zucchini Bites

A plate of zucchini bites next to a cup of dipping sauce.
Zucchini Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Serve these Zucchini Bites, seasoned with parmesan, cheddar, and Italian spices. Ready in 30 minutes, these bites are an easy and impressive pick for any gathering. They perfectly shine on their own, but also complement other appetizers on their menu.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bites

Cucumber Tomato Bites

A hand holding a cucumber tomato bite.
Cucumber Tomato Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Cucumber Tomato Bites are ready in under 30 minutes, offering a refreshing crunch. They’re a top pick for hosts needing a quick and effortless dish. This appetizer ensures guests have something light and flavorful to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Baked tomatoes with cheese and basil on a baking sheet.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese are a straightforward addition to any party menu. Prepared in under 30 minutes, they provide an effortless yet memorable appetizer choice. The blend of cheeses complements the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a show-stealing dish that leaves a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

A hand holding a toothpick with a bacon egg and cheese breakfast slider.
Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders bring playfulness to your appetizer lineup. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a go-to for party guests in a rush. They are a fun combination of bacon, egg, and cheese, all skewered on a toothpick. They will undoubtedly steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Garnished shrimp cucumber bites on a plate.
Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Serve these Shrimp Cucumber Bites, a mix of shrimp, Cajun spice, guacamole, and cucumbers. A fresh and light option, this appetizer stands out effortlessly. It’s a must-try for hosts who value flavor and simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

Four cucumber boats on a white serving platter.
Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Craft these Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats in a mere 5 minutes. They’re a simple yet flavorful option topped with avocado and cream cheese. This appetizer is a testament to the idea that less is often more.
Get the Recipe: Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

Pepper Jack Sausage Balls

A pepper jack sausage ball skewered with a toothpick.
Pepper Jack Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Introduce these Pepper Jack Sausage Balls, ready in 30 minutes, to your menu. A filling and flavorful choice, they’re easy for hosts to whip up. This appetizer promises to meet the cravings of hungry guests.
Get the Recipe: Pepper Jack Sausage Balls

Buffalo Deviled Eggs

Buffalo deviled eggs garnished with paprika and green onions.
Buffalo Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Buffalo Deviled Eggs provide a new spin on a classic appetizer, ready to serve in 30 minutes. This bold twist is a remarkable conversation starter. Add them to your party menu for a memorable, show-stealing dish. Rest assured, they will impress your guests with their unexpected zing.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Deviled Eggs

Lemon Pepper Wings

A serving dish of lemon pepper wings with a wedge of lemon.
Lemon Pepper Wings. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

These Lemon Pepper Wings are oven-baked and straightforward to prepare. They stand as an undeniable classic in the world of appetizers. A reliable choice for hosts, these wings will capture the attention of your guests.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Wings

Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped pickle bite skewered with a toothpick.
Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites come together in 30 minutes with only five ingredients. These bites add a layer of fun to any gathering, impressing guests with their creative combination of flavors. Perfect for people who want to spend less time in the kitchen, they’re an eye-catching option to add to your party menu.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites

Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats

Spicy tuna cucumber boats on a plate.
Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats are quick to assemble, requiring only 10 minutes. These boats offer a blend of spiciness and creaminess that steals the show. They provide an alternative to heavier appetizers without sacrificing flavor. As a host, you’ll find this an easy and impactful choice for your menu.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Mini spicy canned salmon patties in a serving bowl.
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties offer bold, zesty flavors and are ready in just 30 minutes. Ideal for anyone looking for straightforward appetizer options, these salmon patties are a standout choice. They pair well with various dipping sauces, adding an extra layer of flavor. Your guests will likely be asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Bacon pickle boats stuffed with cream cheese on a plate next to a bowl of dip.
Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese are a remarkable dish ready in under an hour. This appetizer combines pickles and cream cheese wrapped in bacon for a fun and memorable appetizer. Simple to prepare, they’re an ideal choice for hosts who prefer uncomplicated recipes.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese

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