Need a platter of easy appetizers for an upcoming party? These crowd-pleasing appetizer ideas are ready in 20 minutes or less!
1/30
Pizza Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
You can assemble this easy appetizer in a jiffy. The pizza dip goes very fast, so you may want to make two batches. —Stacie Morse, South Otselic, New York
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 62 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
Serve an array of crackers or breadsticks with this crowd-pleasing party appetizer. The pizza dip is as customizable as real pizza—add your favorite chopped veggies or pepperoni to the bowl if you like.
2/30
Quick Tortilla Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
Prepare these easy, cheesy pinwheels several days in advance if desired. Serve them with your choice of mild or hot salsa or picante sauce. —Barbara Keith, Faucett, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 47 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 51mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
This easy appetizer recipe is a double-whammy: It takes just 15 minutes to make, and you can prepare it ahead of time. While the roll-ups look fancy, they’re made simply by layering cheesy ingredients onto a flat tortilla, rolling it up, and slicing. Serve with a good store-bought salsa.
3/30
Beer Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Ranch dressing mix flavors this easy dip packed with shredded cheese. It's perfect paired with pretzels. Be forewarned, though—it's hard to stop eating once you've started! The beer cheese dip can be made with any type of beer, including nonalcoholic. I've taken it to many parties and I am always asked for the recipe. —Michelle Long, New Castle, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 93 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 184mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
One of our best appetizers of all time, this cheesy, creamy beer dip is irresistible! Best of all, it’s adaptable. Make it with a classic beer, a nonalcoholic beer or a gluten-free beer. Serve with pretzels, sliced vegetables or crackers.
4/30
Pastrami Roll-Ups
From the Recipe Creator:
For a book club event, I created pastrami roll-ups with cream cheese and a pickle. Those tasty bites quickly pulled a disappearing act. —Merritt Heinrich, Oswego, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll-up: 25 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 158mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
If you need a recipe with pickles to satisfy your never-ending pickle cravings, these are for you. Like an Italian sandwich in a bite, these roll-ups are savory, tangy and creamy.
5/30
Homemade Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
I always judge a Tex-Mex restaurant by its guacamole. And although it's simple to prepare, it can go wrong oh, so easily. I've spent many years perfecting mine, to the point where I think it's better than most restaurants. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 90 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 78mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
Guacamole is a natural appetizer to serve before a feast packed with authentic Mexican food, but it’s so delicious as a snack, it doesn’t really matter what you’re serving for dinner. Make homemade tortilla chips a day in advance if you want a fully from-scratch app.
6/30
Dreamy Fruit Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone will love this thick cream cheese fruit dip. Serve it with apple wedges, pineapple chunks, strawberries and grapes. —Anna Beiler, Strasburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 75 calories, 6g fat (5g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 51mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Who said that appetizers have to be savory? This sweet dipping sauce is delightful with fresh fruit. Depending on what’s in season, serve with strawberries, pineapple, grapes, apples or pears.
7/30
Tomato-Goat Cheese Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
A good friend shared this recipe with me. It is super easy and so delicious. Guests will love it! It's best served with crackers that aren't strongly seasoned. —Linda Alexander, Madison, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 117 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 158mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
Soft, creamy goat cheese makes an ideal base for spreads since it’s so easy to blend with flavorings. Here, both sun-dried tomatoes and their juices are used to flavor the cheese. Serve with mild-tasting crackers to let the full-flavored dip shine.
8/30
Caprese Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 44 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
A platter of Caprese salad is hard to beat, but when serving in appetizer form, try these kabobs. They’re an easy handheld treat; no silverware or individual plates needed.
9/30
Strawberry Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
This deliciously different salsa is versatile, fresh-tasting and colorful. People are surprised to see a salsa made with strawberries, but it's excellent over grilled chicken and pork or as a dip with corn chips. —Jean Giroux, Belchertown, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 19 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 free food.
Did you know that strawberries and tomatoes have similar flavor profiles? It’s strange but true! Adding sliced strawberries to classic tomato salsa ingredients brings extra sweetness and makes the salsa more versatile. It’s still great with corn chips, and especially tasty paired with cheese and crackers.
10/30
Peanut Butter Granola Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
I came across this easy and tasty snack while searching online for healthy munchies for kids. Great for after school, it's really quick to make and filling enough to hold the kids until dinner. To satisfy heftier appetites or to serve as a power lunch, cut each tortilla into fewer pieces or provide one per child. The recipe is easy to increase as needed. —Mary Haluch, Ludlow, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 60 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 48mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
This homey peanut butter roll-up is a fun appetizer for a kid’s party or a family dinner. It’s also super simple. Spread peanut butter and honey (or jam or jelly) on a tortilla, sprinkle with granola, and roll.
11/30
Peachy Jalapeno Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh jalapenos and summer-ripe peaches give this creamy guacamole so much flavor. It's got a little kick, but I love that it's not so spicy it burns off my taste buds! —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 90 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 164mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
Tired of the same ol’ guacamole? Try this spicy-sweet variation of guacamole. Stirring juicy chunks of peach and minced jalapeño into the dipping bowl adds morsels of exciting flavor that perks up the palate.
12/30
Artichoke Caprese Platter
From the Recipe Creator:
I dressed up the classic Italian trio of mozzarella, tomatoes and basil with marinated artichokes. It looks so yummy on a pretty platter set out on a buffet. Using fresh mozzarella is the key to its great taste. —Margaret Wilson, San Bernardino, California
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 192 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 179mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
This simple-to-assemble salad combines the flavors of two favorite restaurant appetizers: artichoke dip and Caprese salad. The result is a fresh, but hearty, appetizer perfect for eating al fresco.
13/30
Brownie Batter Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m all about the sweeter side of dips, and this brownie-batter variety fits in with my life’s philosophy: Chocolate makes anything better. Grab some fruit, cookies or salty snacks and start dunking. —Mel Gunnell, Boise, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 118 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 56mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Who hasn’t snuck a taste of brownie batter off the mixing spoon? This chocolaty dip recreates that special treat, without the raw eggs. Serve with sliced apples, Animal Crackers or pretzels.
14/30
Parmesan Ranch Popcorn
From the Recipe Creator:
Whether you need a quick gift idea or yummy munchies for movie night, we've got you covered with this cheesy twist on regular popped popcorn. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 112 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 243mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
Chips and crackers dominate appetizer tables, but we’re here to nominate an alternative: popcorn. It’s a crowd-pleaser, quick to make, and easy to scale up as big a batch as you need.
15/30
German Beer Cheese Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
We love recipes inspired by our German heritage. This tangy spread is fantastic served alongside everything, including pretzels and pumpernickel or crackers and sausage. Choose your favorite beer—the flavor really comes through. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons (calculated without crackers): 95 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
If you’ve only ever had store-bought cheese spread, you’ve got to make this recipe. By blending cubed cheese, Worcestershire sauce, spices and your favorite beer, you can control the texture and flavor. To make it super creamy, grab a softer cheese or add a splash more beer. If you prefer it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne or fresh chili peppers.
16/30
Spicy Shrimp Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
Radishes add a wonderful crunch to this colorful salsa that is also superb over grilled fish. There's just enough jalapeno to give flavor without much of the heat. —Mary Beth Relyea, Canastota, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 38 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 lean meat.
A great trick for serving shrimp on a budget is to mix shrimp into a fresh salsa. As a bonus, the acidic flavors of tomato and lime jazz up the slightly sweet shrimp.
17/30
Pina Colada Fruit Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
A taste of the tropics will be welcomed by your holiday guests. The cool and creamy dip can be served as an appetizer or a dessert. —Shelly Fisher, Hermiston, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 186 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 96mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Smooth whipped marshmallow creme, tangy cream cheese and shredded coconut make a sweet, surprising dip. Serve with a big plate of fruit and watch your guests swarm like moths to a light.
18/30
Garlic Garbanzo Bean Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
My friends and family always ask me to make it. I guarantee you’ll be asked for the recipe. —Lisa Moore, North Syracuse, New York
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 114 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 96mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1/2 starch.
Similar to classic hummus, but with a brighter flavor thanks to green onions and parsley, this bean spread is a sure hit. Serve it as part of a colorful crudite platter or spread over crackers.
19/30
Mango Avocado Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
When serving a crowd, double or quadruple this guacamole. The onion, tomato and mango can be chopped in advance. Add avocado just before serving. —Diana Nienberg, McComb, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without chips and vegetables): 67 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 151mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
This is one of our favorite secret ingredient guacamole recipes. Here, diced mango adds a burst of sweet juiciness against creamy avocado chunks.
20/30
Dill Vegetable Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me this zesty dip recipe many years ago, and now I serve it at our annual holiday open house. To make it mobile, spoon a serving of the dip in the bottom of a small cup, then garnish with fresh veggies. —Karen Gardiner, Eutaw, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 107 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 187mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
This may be the most formal recipe in this roundup, but it requires only five minutes of prep time. Assembling sliced crudités vertically in individual cups makes for a striking presentation that’s also practical, packaging both dip and veggies in a single-serving dish.
21/30
Spicy Crab Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
With cayenne pepper and hot sauce (both optional), this delicious dip doubles up on the heat. Chock-full of crabmeat, this appetizer feels special, yet it only takes minutes to prepare. —Carol Forcum, Marion, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 82 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 133mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Everyone loves crab dip, but not many people realize how easy it is to make! Using canned crab (or even imitation crab meat) means zero hammers are required to enjoy the rich crustacean flavor.
22/30
Caramel Apple and Brie Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a caterer, and this is one of my best-selling appetizers. The shortcut of using prepared caramel makes these little apple skewers a snap to assemble. —Camille Ellis, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 skewer: 272 calories, 16g fat (6g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 303mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein.
Threading bite-sized fruits, veggies or cheese on a skewer is a simple trick for cold finger foods perfect for parties. While savory combinations are easy to dream up, this sweet caramel-laced confection will surprise and delight your guests.
23/30
Loaded Baked Potato Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
0.250 cup: 208 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 286mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.
If you serve this creamy dip with waffle fries, it’s like a deconstructed loaded baked potato! It’s the perfect casual appetizer before an easy cookout dinner.
24/30
White Bean Hummus
From the Recipe Creator:
My version of hummus features a delightful nuttiness from tahini, a peanut butter-like paste made from ground sesame seeds. The beans pack a lot of protein so it's a healthy snack for kids. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 78 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 114mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
Hummus is a go-to appetizer for a good reason: It pairs with just about anything you can dip in it, from pretzels to veggies and beyond. This classic recipe combines tahini, garlic and lemon with cannellini beans rather than the traditional chickpeas—they blend more smoothly since they don’t have skins—but you can use whichever you prefer.
25/30
Cheesy Snack Mix
From the Recipe Creator:
Our love for Mexican food inspired me to make party mix with taco seasoning. The flavor is so mild that it's even kid friendly. —Elizabeth Wynne, Aztec, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 151 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 362mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
Snack mix might seem like a throwback to high school parties in the basement rec room, but give it another look! With their appealing mix of savory and sweet flavors and crispy and crunchy textures, snack mixes are customizable and fun.
26/30
Jalapeno Ranch Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Ranch dressing got its start on a real dude ranch in California. Punch up the western original with green salsa, green chiles, jalapenos and cilantro for more color and spice. Serve the dip along with your favorite wings to feed a crowd. —Lindsay Duke, Goodrich, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without chicken wings): 252 calories, 26g fat (4g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 502mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Serve this delectable ranch dip alongside a vegetable platter. Use up the leftovers as a dip for your favorite taco recipes.
27/30
Blue Cheese Potato Chips
From the Recipe Creator:
Game day calls for something bold. I top potato chips with tomatoes, bacon and tangy blue cheese. I make two big pans, and they always disappear. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 215 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 359mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
Nachos are great, but have you ever given potato chips the same treatment? This savory pan of tomatoes, bacon and tangy blue cheese will get gobbled up fast.
28/30
Cheese Quesadillas
From the Recipe Creator:
We serve these quesadillas as chili dippers or load them up with salsa and sour cream for a super starter. —Terri Keeney, Greeley, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 111 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
It’s easy to make a big batch of quesadillas. Get out your longest sheet pan, layer as many tortillas as will fit, and sprinkle on some cheese and salsa. Serve with sour cream and guac or just more salsa.
29/30
Spinach Dip in a Bread Bowl
From the Recipe Creator:
When we get together with friends, I like to prepare this creamy spinach dip. It's a real crowd pleaser. —Janelle Lee, Appleton, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 162 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 551mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
The special ingredient in this chunky spinach dip? A packet of ranch seasoning! Serving the dip in a bread bowl adds a wow factor, but it will taste just as good in a plain bowl.
30/30
Blue Cheese Dip with Cream Cheese
From the Recipe Creator:
Every time I make this quick blue cheese dip, someone asks for the recipe. It only requires a few items, so its a snap to put together. I often prepare the thick spread with Gorgonzola cheese and serve it with toasted pecans. —Sandy Schneider Naperville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons dip: 112 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 229mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
Funky blue cheese has a strong flavor, so it’s ideal to enjoy as an appetizer. It tastes great with both savory and sweet dippers, like fresh apple slices or potato chips.
