Hosting Thanksgiving can feel like a marathon of prepping, cooking, and juggling all the moving parts. So, when it comes to appetizers, the simpler and more crowd-pleasing, the better! I’m all about options that can be made ahead or thrown together quickly, keeping guests munching without overwhelming your to-do list. These ten Thanksgiving appetizers are not only easy to prep, but they also pack in the flavor and presentation. From fun twists like microwave potato chips to classics like pigs in a blanket, here’s your ultimate pre-feast spread!
1. Pigs in a blanket
A mouthwatering finger food, pigs in a blanket are super easy to make, and they disappear fast! You just need mini sausages and crescent roll dough. Bake until golden, and serve with mustard or a favorite dipping sauce. Perfect for kids and adults alike.
2. Baked brie with jam
Baked brie is that elegant appetizer that looks impressive but is deceptively simple. Wrap a wheel of brie in puff pastry, add a generous layer of jam (raspberry or fig is delicious), and bake until the cheese is melty and the pastry is golden. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette for a gooey, indulgent treat.
3. Stuffed mushrooms
These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are always a hit. Mix cream cheese, spinach, and grated Parmesan for the filling, then bake until the tops are golden and bubbling. The best part? You can prep these ahead of time and pop them in the oven just before serving.
4. Butternut squash soup shooters
Butternut squash soup, served in little shot glasses, is a cozy and unique way to kick off Thanksgiving. Make a simple, creamy soup with roasted butternut squash, onion, and a hint of nutmeg, then serve it warm as an appetizer. Add a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top for crunch and garnish.
5. Million Dollar dip
I had to include a dip in this roundup of Thanksgiving appetizers. Million dollar dip combines cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions and almonds, all mixed into a creamy, tangy base. Serve it with crackers or tortilla chips, and watch it disappear. This dip can be made in advance, so it’s one less thing to worry about on the big day.
6. Microwave potato chips
For a surprisingly crispy snack, try microwave potato chips. Slice potatoes thinly, season with salt and microwave until crispy. These homemade chips are a fun, crunchy alternative to store-bought ones and take hardly any time to make. Pair with ranch or your favorite dip for added flavor.
7. Lasagna cups
Mini lasagna cups are a Thanksgiving twist on a comfort food classic. Use wonton wrappers as the “noodles,” layer with ricotta, meat sauce and mozzarella, and bake in a muffin tin. These individual lasagna bites are easy to eat, making them perfect for mingling.
8. Cheese twists
Cheese twists are a breeze to make but pack a ton of flavor. Take puff pastry, brush with egg wash, sprinkle with Parmesan and a little paprika, then twist and bake until golden. They’re crispy, cheesy and wonderfully flaky—a great addition to your Thanksgiving appetizers.
9. Shrimp cocktail
Shrimp cocktail is a classic for a reason: it’s light, refreshing and easy to prepare. Just buy pre-cooked shrimp, arrange on a platter with a zesty cocktail sauce, and add lemon wedges for garnish. It’s a light option that pairs well with all the other flavors.
10. Deviled eggs
Deviled eggs are always a crowd-pleaser, and they’re so easy to dress up. Classic deviled eggs are made with mayonnaise, mustard and a sprinkle of paprika on top. To get fancy, add a hint of smoked salmon, bacon or even truffle salt. Prepare these ahead of time and store in the fridge until serving.
Tips for prepping & serving Thanksgiving appetizers
Here are a few tips to keep your Thanksgiving appetizers stress-free:
- Prep in advance: Choose recipes that can be prepped the day before, like the stuffed mushrooms or million-dollar dip. Just pop your appetizers in the oven or set them out on the table when guests arrive.
- Think variety: Offer a mix of flavors and textures, from creamy dips to crispy bites, to keep everyone’s taste buds happy.
- Portion control: Smaller servings, like soup shooters or mini lasagna cups, are great for letting guests sample everything without filling up before the main course.
