19 homemade appetizers you can make in an hour or less

Photo of author

| Published:

Got a get-together on the horizon? There’s no need to spend all day in the kitchen to wow your guests. Homemade appetizers you can make in an hour or less are your go-to here. It’s all about balance — quick dishes that are still big on flavor can really lighten the load, and who doesn’t want more time to actually enjoy the party? So, whether you’re a seasoned party planner or throwing your first event, these 19 quick appetizers are your best friend. You can whip up something that’ll have everyone talking. No fuss, no stress, just good food and good times.

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.

Got 50 minutes? You can get these Loaded Zucchini Boats on the table. They’re filled with bacon and sour cream and are a hit at casual hangouts. They’re easy to make so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all night.
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 dip is ready in 50 minutes, and you don’t have to be a kitchen pro to get it right. It blends jalapeños, spinach, artichokes, and cream cheese into something you’ll be proud to serve. It’ll make your menu memorable without stressing you out.Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Halloumi Fries

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

Only have 25 minutes? These Halloumi Fries are your answer. They’re seasoned and baked quickly, so they’re great if you’re pressed for time. They work whether you’re feeding the family or expecting guests.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

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.

If you’ve got 15 minutes, this Taco Dip is a no-brainer. Mix cream cheese and taco seasoning, and you’ve got a dip that goes well with anything. No fuss, and you’re back to mingling with your guests in no time.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

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

Need an appetizer that’s quick and a crowd-pleaser? You’ve got an hour to make these Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. They’re filled with chicken, bacon, and ranch, and they’re easy to dip. Guests will love them, and you won’t spend all day cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

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

You can get these Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers done in 45 minutes. They’re stuffed with cream cheese and easy to prep. They add a simple, yet impressive touch to your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Mini Peppers

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

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

Here’s a fresh and light option that takes 25 minutes to make. It’s a combo of shrimp, Cajun spice, guacamole, and cucumbers. They’re easy to make, and they’ll add a little flair to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber 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.

Need something straightforward but still impressive and memorable? These Baked Tomatoes take less than 30 minutes. Parmesan and mozzarella cheese meet ripe tomatoes, and it’s a combo that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats

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

In just 10 minutes, you can assemble these Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats. They’re quick, crunchy, and packed with flavor. A solid option if you want to spend more time with your guests than 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.

If you’ve got 30 minutes, these sliders are a smart move. They mix bacon, egg, and cheese, all pinned together on a toothpick for easy eating. They’ll be a hit, and you won’t have to break a sweat making them.
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.

These are ready in under 30 minutes and are a good pick if you want something light. The cucumber and tomato combo offers a refreshing crunch. Quick, easy, and your guests will thank you for a lighter option.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Pepper Jack Sausage Balls

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

Ready in 30 minutes, these sausage balls are filling and have a nice kick from the pepper jack cheese. They’re simple to prepare, which is always a plus when you’re hosting.
Get the Recipe: Pepper Jack Sausage Balls

Zucchini Bites

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

If you’ve got 30 minutes, these Zucchini Bites are an easy win. They’re seasoned with parmesan, cheddar, and Italian spices. Good on their own or alongside other appetizers, they’re a versatile choice.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bites

Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

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

Five minutes. That’s all it takes for these cucumber boats. Topped with avocado and cream cheese, they’re quick and easy but still full of flavor. A good choice if you’re looking for something straightforward but impactful.
Get the Recipe: Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

Buffalo Deviled Eggs

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

Add a bit of a twist to a classic in just 30 minutes. These deviled eggs bring a buffalo sauce zing that can spark some good conversation. They’ll grab attention and leave a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Deviled Eggs

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 a 30-minute prep time and just five ingredients, you can have these unique bites ready to go. The pickles wrapped in bacon offer a fun and distinct flavor that your guests will enjoy.
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.

A 30-minute recipe that brings some bold flavors to the table. Salmon patties are easy to make and can be paired with different dipping sauces, adding an extra touch that guests will appreciate.
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.

A 30-minute recipe that brings some bold flavors to the table. Salmon patties are easy to make and can be paired with different dipping sauces, adding an extra touch that guests will appreciate.
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.

In under an hour, you’ve got an appetizer that combines the crunch of pickles with the richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in bacon. Simple and memorable, it’s a smart pick if you’re looking to impress without stress.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.