From bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers to easy dips, these spicy appetizers bring the heat with every bite.
1/27
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
From the Recipe Creator:
There’s no faster way to get a party started than with these bacon jalapeno poppers. Make them ahead and bake just before serving. Even the those who are intolerant of hot peppers will love them. —Dawn Onuffer, Crestview, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper half: 66 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 115mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
2/27
Buffalo Chicken Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
Hot wings got their start in Buffalo, New York, in a kitchen. Although there was no game on at the time, today spicy wings and cool sauces are traditional game-day fare. Cayenne, red sauce and spices keep these tangy Buffalo chicken wings good and hot, just like the originals. —Nancy Chapman, Center Harbor, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 126 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 105mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
3/27
Jalapeno Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
This homemade jalapeno salsa is ultra bright and zesty, perfect as a dip for chips or drizzled over your favorite tacos. The jalapenos bring the heat, cilantro adds verdant freshness, while fresh lime juice adds a pop of tangy flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 57 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 297mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
4/27
Sweet & Spicy Party Meatballs
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend served this at a party years ago, and I modified the recipe. Apple, peach and apricot preserves make these meatballs sweet and fruity. The addition of Sriracha chili sauce and red pepper flakes adds a spicy heat that makes them irresistible. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 meatball: 75 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 169mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
5/27
Jalapeno Popper Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a fantastic way to deliver all that blazing jalapeno popper taste without the work. Whenever I bring this jalapeno popper dip to a party, I'm always asked for the recipe. Serve with corn chips, tortilla chips or butter crackers. —Jennifer Wilke, Collinsville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 238 calories, 23g fat (8g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 323mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
6/27
Spicy Crab Salad Tapas
From the Recipe Creator:
I served these at a party and everyone went wild! These delicious morsels have a crispy flaky outside filled with creamy sweet crab that has a little kick. I used scalloped-edge cookie cutters to cut my pastry, but you can use a small biscuit cutter. —Vanessa Mason, Summerdale, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 145 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 240mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
7/27
Cranberry Jalapeno Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone has a holiday appetizer 'greatest hit,' and this just may become yours. Fiery jalapenos create a bold contrast to tart and juicy cranberries, and cream cheese mellows out the heat for a balanced, refreshing bite. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 82 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 19mg cholesterol, 109mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
8/27
Shrimp and Crab Cocktail
From the Recipe Creator:
This seafood starter is so good that it makes me love a food I usually don't—radishes! This recipe also calls for spicy V8, but Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix works just as well. Serve the cocktail straight up, with tortilla chips or on a bed of butter lettuce. —Heidi Knaak, Liberty, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 162 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 91mg cholesterol, 604mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 17g protein.
9/27
Ground Beef Taco Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
What's a football party without taco dip? This version made with spicy ground beef and fresh toppings does not disappoint the die-hards. It is full of classic flavors and is a little extra filling for game day appetites. —Errika Perry, Green Bay, WI
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 116 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
10/27
Spicy Edamame
From the Recipe Creator:
Edamame are young soybeans in their pods. While I love to get them with my sushi when I go out, they are also so easy to make at home. —Mark Neufang, Bayshore, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 52 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 642mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
11/27
Mini Corn Muffins with Spicy Cheddar Filling
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m an Iowa gardener and I like to feature sweet corn in my recipes. These cute, easy-to-eat bites are a fun change from the usual appetizers. —Margaret Blair, Lorimor, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 muffin: 67 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 100mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
12/27
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.
13/27
Jalapeno Popper Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
I've been told by fellow partygoers that this recipe tastes exactly like a jalapeno popper. I like that it can be made without much fuss. —Ariane McAlpine, Penticton, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 239 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 304mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
14/27
Crispy Sriracha Spring Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
While in the Bahamas, friends suggested a restaurant that served amazing chicken spring rolls. When I got home, I created my own version. Such a great appetizer to have waiting in the freezer! —Carla Mendres, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Nutrition Facts:
1 spring roll: 186 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 215mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
15/27
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.
16/27
Spicy Sweet Potato Chips & Cilantro Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
This irresistible combo could become your new signature snack food. Park the spicy baked chips next to a bowl of the cool, creamy dip and let the gang have at it. What a fantastic twist on traditional chips and dip! —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup chips with about 1 tablespoon dip: 285 calories, 16g fat (4g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 217mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein.
17/27
Smoky Jalapenos
From the Recipe Creator:
When I make these bacon-wrapped appetizers, there are no leftovers. They can also be made with mild banana peppers or yellow chili peppers. —Melinda Strable, Ankeny, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper half: 86 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 215mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
18/27
Spicy Pumpkin Seeds
From the Recipe Creator:
We look forward to fall in anticipation of making these spicy pumpkin seeds. I often put some in a decorated jar to give as a gift.
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 103 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 158mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
19/27
Shrimp Cakes with Spicy Aioli Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
I made these for our staff Christmas party last year; they were such a hit that I was flooded with requests for the recipe the next day. Throughout the year, whenever I needed favors done at school, people gladly helped as long as I promised to bring them shrimp cakes! This year's Christmas party is coming up, and I'm already being asked if I am bringing the shrimp cakes—I guess I am! —Linda Zilar, Kennewick, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 106 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 218mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
20/27
Slow-Cooked Cranberry Hot Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
Cranberry wings remind me of all the wonderful celebrations and parties we've had through the years. My daughter’s friends can’t get enough of these wings. —Noreen McCormick Danek, Cromwell, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 71 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 122mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0g fiber), 5g protein.
21/27
Three-Pepper Guacamole
From the Recipe Creator:
If you're serious about guacamole, use a molcajete. The lava stone makes a big difference on the pepper paste and is fun for guests. — Laura Levy, Lyons, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup (calculated without chips): 76 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 82mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat.
22/27
Sweet & Spicy Chicken Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
The meat literally falls off the bones of these wings! Spice lovers will get a kick out of the big sprinkling of red pepper flakes. —Sue Bayless, Prior Lake, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 95 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 195mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
23/27
Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
This easy spread is based on several different relishes and spreads I've tasted or made before. I love the sweet and spicy combination of flavors. —Diane Nemitz, Ludington, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 88 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 63mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
24/27
Spicy Shrimp
From the Recipe Creator:
Not too hot but full of flavor, these shrimp are one of a kind. They're easy to make and take to parties, where they'll impress the other guests. —Bob Gebhardt, Wausau, WI.
Nutrition Facts:
6 ounce-weight: 490 calories, 45g fat (24g saturated fat), 265mg cholesterol, 1464mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 21g protein.
25/27
Grilled Jalapeno Poppers
From the Recipe Creator:
These cheese-stuffed jalapenos are always popular when my husband and I host a tapas (appetizers) party. There’s a flavor explosion in each crisp and tender pepper. —Mary Potter, Sterling Heights, MI
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 66 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
26/27
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.
27/27
Spicy-Good Chicken Wings
From the Recipe Creator:
We enjoy eating these chicken wings while watching football on TV, but make them for any special occasion for a crowd favorite! The pepper sauce gives just the right amount of heat.—Della Clutts, New Tazewell, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer (calculated without salad dressing): 225 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 51mg cholesterol, 473mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 10g protein.
Spicy Appetizers FAQ
What are some easy spicy appetizers for parties?
The best spicy appetizers for parties are simple to make and serve, like chili-dusted popcorn, deviled eggs topped with diced jalapeños or a spicy bean dip. To make prep even quicker, use shortcut ingredients like rotisserie chicken, hot sauce or shredded cheese to add flavor without any additional work. You can also prep spicy sauces or dips for chips a day ahead, so all you have to do at party time is set them out.
How can I adjust the heat level of spicy starters?
Whether using fresh peppers, dried spices or condiments, like hot sauce, you can adjust the heat level easily by choosing different peppers or adjusting how much you use. If a recipe calls for a jalapeño, you can tame the heat by removing the seeds and membranes or use a Serrano for more intensity. Milder peppers, like poblano or anaheim, have the flavor but much less spice. Add ingredients like cayenne or ground chipotle gradually until you find the right heat level for you. If you need to tame a recipe that turned out hotter than intended, add a creamy ingredient like sour cream or yogurt to balance the spice.
Are there low-calorie spicy snacks?
Yes, there are plenty of low-calorie snacks with a spicy kick because ingredients like fresh peppers and dried chilis can be used generously without adding many calories. Try dishes such as chili-lime grilled shrimp, roasted spicy chickpeas and baked veggie chips, all of which rely on lean proteins or vegetables and are naturally low in calories. Pair these snacks with fresh salsas or yogurt-based dips to balance the heat without adding too much heft.
