27 starters that simplify any celebrations

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Setting the tone for a memorable celebration starts with the right appetizers, and with these 27 easy-to-prepare options, you’re all set to impress. These recipes offer diverse tastes and textures, suitable for any type of event. They’re quick to make, allowing you more time to enjoy with your guests, and each one is packed with flavor that promises to enhance the overall experience. Whether it’s a small family affair or a large party, these appetizers are about making every gathering a bit more special and a lot more enjoyable.

Guinness Cheese Dip on a platter with soft pretzels.
Guinness Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate.
Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Get ready to wow your guests with these Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. They’re a unique twist on classic wings, combining smoky flavors with the tang of dill pickles. These wings are surprisingly straightforward to prepare and are sure to be a conversation starter at any gathering. They’re just the thing when you want an appetizer that’s both familiar and delightfully different.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who love a bit of heat, Smoked Jalapeno Poppers are a must-try. They’re filled with creamy cheese and wrapped in smoky bacon, offering a perfect balance of spice and flavor. Easy to whip up and even more straightforward to devour, these poppers are ideal for adding a zesty kick to your celebration. They’re the kind of snack that disappears fast, so you might want to make extra!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Baked Scotch Eggs

Scotch Eggs on a black plate.
Baked Scotch Eggs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baked Scotch Eggs are a hearty and satisfying appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make. They combine the richness of sausage with the simplicity of hard-boiled eggs; all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Perfect for a filling snack or a part of a larger spread, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re a great way to offer something a little different from the usual appetizer fare.
Get the Recipe: Baked Scotch Eggs

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your guests with these elegant Beef Wellington Bites. They miniaturize the classic dish into bite-sized morsels, perfect for mingling and munching. With tender beef and a flaky pastry, they’re an upscale yet easy option for any party. These bites bring a touch of fancy to your appetizer lineup without any complicated preparation.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Tomatillo Pico de Gallo

Tomatillo pico de gallo in a black dish surrounded by tortilla chips.
Tomatillo Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Freshen up your appetizer game with Tomatillo Pico de Gallo. It’s a zesty, fresh salsa that’s a breeze to put together and brings flavor to the table. Serve it with chips for dipping or as a lively topping for other appetizers. It’s a vibrant, healthy option that adds color and taste to any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Tomatillo Pico de Gallo

Guacamole Snack Board

A top-down shot of a guacamole snack board.
Guacamole Snack Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Create a centerpiece for your party with a Guacamole Snack Board. It’s a visually appealing spread of rich, creamy guacamole surrounded by a variety of dippables. This board is not just about great flavors; it’s also about bringing people together. It’s an interactive, fun way to enjoy a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

Spicy Chex Mix

Spicy Chex Mix with Halloween Candies in a festive bowl.
Spicy Chex Mix. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add some crunch to your festivities with Spicy Chex Mix. This homemade version of the classic snack mix is customizable to your heat preference and is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect munchie for guests to nibble on throughout the event. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches for a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chex Mix

Cold Corn Dip

A bowl of Chilled Corn Dip with chips on a black plate.
Cold Corn Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cool down and spice up at the same time with this Cold Corn Dip. It’s a creamy, tangy, slightly spicy dip that pairs perfectly with chips or veggies. This dip is a breeze to whip up and is a great make-ahead option for busy hosts. It’s the sort of appetizer that keeps people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cold Corn Dip

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

A plate of empanadas on a slate.
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Beef Empanadas offers a delicious taste with less hassle. They’re packed with savory beef and encased in a crispy shell, all made easier with an air fryer. These empanadas are perfect for those looking for a hand-held, filling and flavorful treat. They’re sure to be a hot favorite at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Beef Empanadas

Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Guinness Cheese Dip on a platter with soft pretzels.
Guinness Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Elevate your snack spread with this Guinness Beer Cheese Dip. It combines the rich taste of Guinness with creamy cheese for a dip that’s irresistible with pretzels or bread. This dip is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a great choice for any occasion. It’s a hearty, indulgent way to kick off any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Smoked Lil Smokies

A bowl of smoked lil smokies with sauce and dipping sauce.
Smoked Lil Smokies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Lil Smokies are a classic appetizer that never goes out of style. They’re bite-sized, smoky, and just the right amount of sweet, making them a hit with guests of all ages. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they’re perfect for a laid-back gathering. These little sausages are the kind of treat that guests can’t stop reaching for.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Lil Smokies

Reuben Egg Rolls

A black plate with Reuben Egg Rolls and dipping sauce.
Reuben Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combine classic sandwich flavors with a fun twist in these Reuben Egg Rolls. They’re stuffed with corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese, all wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper. Perfect for those who love a bit of creativity in their snacks, these egg rolls are surprisingly simple to make. They’re a fusion of flavors that’s sure to surprise and delight your guests.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Egg Rolls

Spicy Garlic Aioli

A bowl of garlic aioli dip with a clove of garlic next to it.
Spicy Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Kick up your appetizers with some Spicy Garlic Aioli. It’s a versatile dip that adds a garlicky, spicy touch to everything from veggies to seafood. This aioli is easy to whisk together and can be adjusted to your preferred heat level. It’s a great way to add a little zing to your snack table.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Garlic Aioli

Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Shepherd's Pie Bites on a black platter.
Shepherd’s Pie Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a comforting, hearty appetizer, try Shepherd’s Pie Bites. They take the classic flavors of shepherd’s pie and present them in a bite-sized form. These little morsels are great for guests who want a taste of home-cooked goodness. They’re surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making them an excellent choice for any host.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Garlic Dipping Sauce

A plate with carrots, cucumbers and garlic dip.
Garlic Dipping Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Garlic Dipping Sauce is a simple yet irresistible addition to any appetizer spread. It’s creamy, garlicky, and has just the right amount of zing to elevate your favorite snacks. It’s ideal for dipping or as a flavorful drizzle over grilled items, but it’s effortless to whip up. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a fancy party, this sauce is sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Dipping Sauce

Sausage Rolls

Sausage Rolls on a white plate.
Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage Rolls are a classic favorite that never disappoints. They’re flaky, savory, and filled with perfectly seasoned sausage, making them a mouth-watering treat. These rolls are surprisingly simple to make and are perfect for serving a crowd. They’re the ideal grab-and-go snack for any celebration, sure to please both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Rolls

Cheese Toasties

Bite-sized Cheese Toasties on a black plate.
Cheese Toasties. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cheese Toasties offer the ultimate comfort food experience in a bite-sized appetizer. They’re crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and cheesy enough to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for a last-minute snack or a cozy gathering, they’re super easy to prepare. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a crowd favorite every time.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Toasties

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa in a black pan with tortilla chips in a second pan.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a fresh and zesty option, try Roasted Tomatillo Salsa. It’s a delightful blend of roasted tomatillos, herbs, and spices, creating a tangy and slightly smoky salsa. This salsa is easy to make and adds a vibrant kick to chips, tacos, or any appetizer. It’s a great way to bring a homemade touch to your celebration.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Smoked Cream Cheese

Two slices of smoked cream cheese on a white plate.
Smoked Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Cream Cheese is a unique and flavorful twist on a classic spread. The smoky flavor adds depth, transforming ordinary cream cheese into an extraordinary appetizer base. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or as a dip for veggies. Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste, it’s a must-try for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cream Cheese

Reuben Sliders

Reuben sliders on a slate board.
Reuben Sliders. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reuben Sliders is a delightful miniaturization of the classic sandwich. They pack all the flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese into a bite-sized treat. These sliders are delicious and incredibly easy to assemble, making them perfect for parties. They’re a fun and tasty way to enjoy traditional flavors in a new format.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Sliders

Smoked Queso

Smoked queso in a black pot.
Smoked Queso. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a smoky twist to your appetizer lineup with Smoked Queso. It’s a creamy, cheesy dip with a hint of smoke that elevates it above ordinary queso. This dip is ideal for tortilla chips or as a topping for nachos and is surprisingly simple to make. It’s a flavorful addition that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Queso

Cajun Dip

A person dipping a pretzel into a bowl of cajun dip.
Cajun Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your appetizer table with this Cajun Dip. It’s a creamy, spicy, and utterly addictive dip that’s perfect for chips or veggies. The blend of Cajun spices adds a delightful kick, making it a great choice for those who love bold flavors. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, ideal for impromptu gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Dip

Whipped Feta

Whipped Feta on a black plate with grilled bread.
Whipped Feta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Whipped Feta is a smooth, creamy, and versatile spread that’s a breeze to make. It’s tangy and salty and can be customized with herbs or spices to suit your taste. This spread is perfect on a cracker or as a dip for fresh veggies. It’s a light yet flavorful option that will elevate your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta

Tomato Bruschetta

Tomato Bruschetta on a platter.
Tomato Bruschetta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tomato Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. It combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic atop crispy slices of toasted bread. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of fresh flavors to any celebration. It’s a timeless choice that’s always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta

Crab Spanakopita

Crab Spanakopita triangles on a cutting board.
Crab Spanakopita. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crab Spanakopita combines the flaky, buttery goodness of Greek pastry with the delicate flavor of crab. This appetizer is a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dish perfect for seafood lovers. It’s an elegant addition to any party menu, offering a unique twist on traditional spanakopita. Guests are sure to be impressed by this savory, decadent treat.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita

Smoked Pork Shots

 Smoked pork shots in a skillet with basil and tomatoes.
Smoked Pork Shots. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a fun and flavorful appetizer, try Smoked Pork Shots. They are bite-sized morsels of smoked sausage wrapped in bacon and filled with a delicious filling. These little cups of joy are a blast to eat and super easy to prepare. Perfect for a BBQ or casual gathering, they’re a surefire way to delight your guests.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Pork Shots

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Create a centerpiece for your gathering with a Tomato Bruschetta Board. It’s an interactive way for guests to build their own bruschetta featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and various toppings. This board is not just about great flavors; it’s also about the joy of customizing your bite. It’s a fun, easy, and delicious way to engage everyone at your party.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

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