This is the list of 20 appetizers we keep on hand for game day parties

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Appetizers are the game day MVPs, and we’ve got the go-to list that’s perfect for any party. These 20 are the easy, no-fuss favorites that keep everyone happy while you chill and watch the game. Think of them as your game day playbook: simple, reliable, and always a hit with the crowd. So, forget about spending hours in the kitchen. With these snacks on hand, you’re all set to kick back, enjoy the game, and have a great time with your friends.

A person holding a cucumber with shrimp and guacamole.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on a plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts come together in just 1 hour and feature crisp bacon, tender water chestnuts, and a flavorful sauce — all wrapped up for a perfect bite every time. This recipe is always a great choice for game-day events.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

A plate with cranberry cream cheese and crackers.
Jalapeño Cranberry Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Jalapeño Cranberry Dip takes just 15 minutes of active cooking time to prepare, making it perfect for beginners. Just blend the jalapeño and cranberry, mix with the creamy base, chill, then it’s ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

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

With just 15 minutes, you can whip up this Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. It’s an easy, delectable appetizer that’s sure to draw attention at any gathering. Layer the base, add the toppings, sprinkle with cheese, and it’s ready to enjoy with chips or veggies. This dip is a quick and easy addition to your party menu.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Halloumi Fries

A person pulling apart a halloumi fry.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Make your party snacks unforgettable with Halloumi Fries. This cheese from Cyprus doesn’t melt, so you can bake, grill, or fry it and it keeps its shape. Get these ready in 25 minutes for a snack that’s a bit different. They’re great on their own or with a dip. Easy to make and sure to impress, these fries will set your party apart.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Chili Cheese Dip

A white baking dish with a dip and tortilla chips.
Chili Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bring everyone together with a Chili Cheese Dip that’s all about flavor. Ready in 30 minutes, this dip is super easy to make. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and it’s party time. It’s a great choice for an appetizer that stands out, making sure your guests will love it and remember it.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cheese Dip

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Three loaded zucchini boats on a plate.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spice up your party menu with Loaded Zucchini Boats. These are a creative take on classic potato skins, filled with bacon, cheese, and sour cream. They’re ready in under an hour and are a hit for any casual get-together. Simple to prepare, they give you more time to hang out with your guests. Present them on a platter or straight from the oven for a memorable appetizer that sets your party apart.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Sausage balls on a plate with a dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Make these Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese for your party. Just mix the ingredients, roll them into balls, and bake. The best part? They’re ready in only 30 minutes. They’re packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

Guacamole and shrimp appetizers.
Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer features marinated shrimp with homemade guacamole on crisp cucumber slices. They’re perfect for a light snack or a sophisticated appetizer, quick to prepare and always a winner at parties.
Get the Recipe: Cold Shrimp and Cucumber Appetizer

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

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

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers are sure to impress at your next event. Ready in under an hour, these peppers are wrapped in bacon and filled with cream cheese, giving a great mix of flavors and textures. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for serving with your favorite dip, adding an impressive element to your appetizers that will definitely set your party apart.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Mini Peppers

Whipped Feta with Honey Dip

A plate of whipped feta with honey dip and crackers on it.
Whipped Feta with Honey Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Add a touch of sweet and creamy to your party with Whipped Feta with Honey Dip. It takes only 10 minutes to make, perfect for when you want something special without too much work. This dip pairs the creamy taste of feta with a sweet honey finish for a great appetizer. Quick to prepare and sure to stand out, it’s a great way to start your holiday party.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta with Honey Dip

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Make your gathering special with Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. These are filled with a delectable sausage and mushroom mix, making them a perfect pick for any event. You can get them ready ahead of time, which is great for easy planning. They’re simple to make and look great when served, great for hassle-free hosting.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

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 are a hit for any get-together. Ready in 30 minutes, they’re made with canned salmon and kicked up a notch with jalapeños and cayenne pepper. They’re versatile, allowing you to adjust the heat to your liking and choose any dipping sauce you prefer. Easy to make and great for any occasion, these patties are a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

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.

Prepare these Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese in just 25 minutes for a quick and impressive snack. Using Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, and Italian seasoning, this dish is juicy and full of flavor. It’s an excellent choice for those times when you need something fast and impressive.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

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

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are loaded with flavor, thanks to a mix of chicken, bacon, egg, cheese, and spices. They’re simple to prepare and ready to serve in an hour. You can also prepare them in advance and freeze them, making them perfect for hosting without spending all day cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

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 is ready in under an hour, making hosting easier. Just combine parmesan cheese, sour cream, spinach, artichoke hearts, and jalapeños, then bake. It’s a simple way to make your menu stand out with minimal effort. Expect it to be a favorite at your next event.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats

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

Make these Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats in just 10 minutes. They’re filled with a creamy mix of cream cheese and avocado, then topped with crispy bacon and tomato. This dish is simple to prepare and perfect for spending more time with your guests and less in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats

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.

Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders are the perfect start to the morning or an exciting snack for an evening event. They combine hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and creamy avocado into a delicious sandwich that updates a classic breakfast. Ready in 30 minutes, these sliders are easy to put together. Great for early gatherings or as an evening appetizer, they’re a hit any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

Cucumber Tomato Bites

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

For a quick and refreshing snack, Cucumber Tomato Bites are ready in under 30 minutes. This easy mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and creamy cream cheese filling is perfect for when you need to prepare something in a hurry. Simple and fresh, it’s a great last-minute choice.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites

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

With only five ingredients and 30 minutes needed, Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites are an excellent choice for quick prep. The blend of the pickles’ salty and sour taste with the rich bacon brings a distinctive flavor to your party menu. Easy to prepare and full of taste, they’re sure to be a favorite.
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.

In just 10 minutes, Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats serves a fresh appetizer option. Crisp cucumbers are filled with creamy cream cheese and spicy tuna, topped with Everything Bagel Seasoning, coconut aminos, and hot sauce for a light, flavorful dish. This recipe is great for those looking for a simple yet impressive appetizer that’s fresh and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats

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