As the aroma of roasting turkey wafts through your home, you want to make sure your guests are just as satisfied. But why stop at just one dish? Why not start the celebration off right with a spread of scrumptious appetizers that will leave everyone eager for more?
From classic combos like spinach and artichoke dip to sweet and savory bites like maple-glazed Brussels sprouts skewers, we’ve got you covered with our list of 20 mouthwatering Thanksgiving appetizer recipes. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, there’s something on this list for every palate.
So what are you waiting for? Scroll down to get started planning the ultimate Turkey Day spread!
Cranberry Brie Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Cranberry Brie Bites, perfect for holiday gatherings or impromptu get-togethers. Soft brie cheese is infused with the sweetness of cranberries and wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries, sugar, and orange zest.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal squares.
4. Place a tablespoon of softened brie cheese in the center of each square. Top with a spoonful of the cranberry mixture.
5. Fold pastry squares over filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Soup Shooters
Warm up with these creamy Pumpkin Soup Shooters, perfect for a chilly fall evening or a cozy brunch with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (canned is fine too!), cooked and pureed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Ladle into shot glasses or small cups. Garnish with chives or scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Crostini
Transform plain crostini into a sweet and savory delight with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 4-6 baguette slices (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup goat cheese or crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves or chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil and salt on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Spread a layer of roasted sweet potato on each toasted baguette slice.
6. Top with goat cheese or blue cheese (if using), and garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes, including prep time.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Sweet and Savory Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe
Elevate your appetizers or snacks with this surprisingly simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the smoky, savory flavor of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted dates
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon (preferably applewood-smoked)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon slices into 3-4 equal pieces, depending on their thickness.
3. Wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
5. Sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over the bacon-wrapped dates.
6. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Butter Roasted Nuts
Elevate your snack game with this aromatic and savory recipe that combines the richness of butter, herbs, and roasted nuts.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme until well combined.
3. Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the herb-butter mixture.
4. Spread the nut mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until the nuts are fragrant and lightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Sliders
These bite-sized sandwiches are a perfect snack or meal on-the-go. With juicy turkey, melted cheese, and toasted buns, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 small hamburger buns (sliders)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine turkey, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 small patties.
4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the buns on the skillet or grill.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by a sprinkle of cheese and any desired garnishes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This classic party favorite combines the rich flavors of artichokes, spinach, and cream cheese for a deliciously addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is lightly browned and warm.
5. Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the savory goodness of sausage.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Sprinkle with grated cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips
A twist on the classic hummus recipe, this Pumpkin Hummus is perfect for the fall season. The roasted pumpkin adds a delicious sweetness and creamy texture to this tasty dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Pita chips or pita bread for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the pumpkin, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until well combined.
5. Serve the Pumpkin Hummus with pita chips or pita bread for a delicious and healthy snack.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Skewers
Elevate your Brussels sprouts game with these maple-glazed skewers, perfect for a quick and flavorful side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Thread 2-3 Brussels sprouts onto each skewer.
5. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sprouts are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
This mouthwatering pull-apart bread is infused with the rich flavors of garlic and melted cheese, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 cup warm water (100°F – 110°F)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, sugar, and garlic to the bowl; mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add flour to form a sticky dough; knead for 10-12 minutes.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into a rectangle.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the dough.
8. Roll up the dough, starting from one of the long sides; cut into 12-15 equal pieces.
9. Place each piece onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
10. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets Recipe
Summary:
Sweet caramelized onions meet creamy goat cheese in these elegant tartlets, perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 (8 oz) package goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Cut into small squares (about 3 inches per side).
5. Spoon a small amount of caramelized onions onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
7. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
8. Brush the tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
9. Place tartlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple and Cheddar Phyllo Cups
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and sweet phyllo cups filled with caramelized apples and sharp cheddar. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped apples with sugar and melted butter over medium heat until caramelized.
3. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
4. Cut phyllo into squares or circles, about 3 inches in diameter.
5. Place a spoonful of apple mixture onto the center of each phyllo piece, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the apples.
7. Fold phyllo into triangles or squares to form cups, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Brush tops with melted butter and season with salt.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pecan and Cranberry Cheese Ball
A sweet and savory twist on the classic cheese ball, this recipe combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the crunch of pecans and the tartness of cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and cheddar cheese until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the mixture and chill for at least 30 minutes.
6. Roll into a ball shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of these bite-sized cornbread muffins, perfect for a snack or side dish. A hint of honey butter adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Honey butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and buttermilk. Add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among mini muffin cups.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– Mix 1 tablespoon honey with 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter.
– Spread on warm cornbread muffins, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Butternut Squash and Sage Bruschetta
Transform ordinary bruschetta into a seasonal delight with the rich flavors of roasted butternut squash and fragrant sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices by baking in the oven for 5-7 minutes or grilling over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
4. Top each toasted slice with roasted squash, Parmesan cheese, and chopped sage leaves.
5. Drizzle with garlic-infused olive oil (simply mix minced garlic with olive oil) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip
Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip Recipe
This creamy dip is a perfect combination of roasted garlic’s deep flavor and cannellini beans’ subtle sweetness, perfect for snacking or serving with crackers and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, cannellini beans, lemon juice, salt, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
6. Transfer dip to a serving bowl and garnish with parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Serve warm or at room temperature with crackers, vegetables, or pita chips.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Add a touch of elegance to your plate with this simple yet impressive recipe, where tender asparagus is wrapped in crispy prosciutto and served hot. Perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the warm spices of pumpkin pie season. These bite-sized treats combine creamy fillings, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a delightful autumnal snack.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped pecans, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mix yolk contents with mayonnaise, mustard, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the filling into egg white halves.
6. Garnish with chopped pecans.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the coolness of cucumber and creaminess of dill. Perfect for a summer gathering or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeded
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 crackers (such as Ritz or water crackers)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumber into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked salmon, Greek yogurt, and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the bites by spreading a small amount of the salmon mixture onto each cracker, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top each bite with a piece of cucumber.
5. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! These bites are ready in just a few minutes to prepare.
Summary
Get ready for a deliciously festive start to your Thanksgiving celebration with these 20 appetizer recipes that are sure to please every palate. From sweet treats like Cranberry Brie Bites and Pumpkin Spice Deviled Eggs, to savory options like Bacon-Wrapped Dates and Roasted Garlic and White Bean Dip, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try Pumpkin Soup Shooters or Butternut Squash and Sage Bruschetta for a taste of fall in every bite. And don’t forget the sweet indulgences, like Apple and Cheddar Phyllo Cups and Mini Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter.
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