Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious feast. Before the main meal, it’s nice to have some appetizers that keep everyone satisfied while the turkey finishes cooking.
These pre-dinner bites set the tone for your celebration and give guests something to enjoy while mingling.
Finding the right Thanksgiving appetizers can make your holiday gathering more special without adding too much stress to your preparation. You can choose from many options like cranberry Brie bites, butternut squash dip, or a simple cheese board.
The best appetizers for Thanksgiving combine seasonal flavors with ease of preparation, allowing you to impress your guests while still having time to focus on the main meal.
1. Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a perfect Thanksgiving appetizer that won’t overshadow your main meal. These tender mushroom caps filled with cheesy, herby mixtures are both delicious and satisfying.
You can prepare them with various fillings to suit your taste. Popular options include cream cheese and Parmesan with garlic, or versions with Italian-style bread crumbs for extra crunch.
They’re surprisingly easy to make. Simply fill mushroom caps with your chosen mixture and bake until golden. Your guests will love these two-bite treats.
For a budget-friendly option, ingredients like bread crumbs, Parmesan, and fresh herbs create an impressive appetizer without breaking the bank.
2. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer that never fails to please your guests. These creamy, tangy treats are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
The traditional recipe includes hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. For a Thanksgiving twist, try adding seasonal flavors like sage and shallots.
You can elevate your deviled eggs by topping them with crispy bacon crumbles. Some people also garnish with orange bell pepper for a festive touch.
These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for your Thanksgiving table or Friendsgiving celebration. They’re a Southern tradition that adds both elegance and comfort to your holiday spread.
3. Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are the perfect easy holiday appetizer for your Thanksgiving table. These tasty treats combine creamy brie cheese with sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.
You can make them using crescent roll dough or puff pastry as the base. Simply cut the dough into small pieces, add a cube of brie and a dollop of cranberry sauce.
Some recipes include a sprig of rosemary on top for extra flavor and decoration. The combination of flaky pastry, melted cheese, and fruity cranberry creates a delicious bite-sized appetizer that your guests will love.
These bites can be prepared quickly, making them ideal for busy holiday cooking schedules.
4. Cheese Board
A cheese board is a must-have Thanksgiving appetizer that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. You can arrange a variety of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and gouda on a wooden board or plate.
Add some crackers, bread slices, or crostini for guests to enjoy with the cheese. Fresh and dried fruits like apples, grapes, and figs complement the flavors well.
Include nuts, honey, and jam to add sweetness and texture. For a more substantial board, add some cured meats like salami or prosciutto.
Remember to set out the cheese board about 30 minutes before serving so the cheese reaches room temperature for the best flavor.
5. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon-wrapped scallops offer a perfect blend of seafood elegance and savory satisfaction for your Thanksgiving gathering. These bite-sized delights are surprisingly easy to prepare.
Large sea scallops wrapped in bacon strips create an impressive appetizer. Simply secure each wrapped scallop with a toothpick before cooking.
For the best results, broil your scallops for about 5 minutes per side until the bacon crisps up. Many recipes include a sweet brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
You can enhance the flavor with a simple garlic butter topping. Arrange them on a platter for a sophisticated starter that will impress your guests while they wait for the main Thanksgiving feast.
6. Pumpkin Hummus
Pumpkin hummus is a fall-inspired twist on traditional hummus that makes a perfect Thanksgiving appetizer. This creamy dip combines chickpeas with pumpkin puree and fall spices for a seasonal treat your guests will love.
You can make this appetizer in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy holiday preparations. Serve your pumpkin hummus with crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful presentation.
For extra flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or topping with pomegranate arils for a festive touch. This versatile dip is also dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free, making it suitable for guests with various dietary needs.
7. Baked Feta with Honey
Baked feta with honey is a stunning Thanksgiving appetizer that takes minimal effort to prepare. Simply place a block of feta on a baking dish and heat until soft and slightly melty.
Drizzle the warm cheese with honey for a perfect sweet-salty combination. For extra flavor, add honey-glazed pecans or a sprinkle of fresh thyme on top.
This appetizer comes together in about 15-20 minutes with very little prep work. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Your guests will love this unexpectedly creamy spread that transforms ordinary feta into something truly special for your holiday table.
8. Sweet Potato Rolls
Sweet potato rolls are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving appetizer spread. These warm, fluffy rolls get their beautiful orange color from mashed sweet potatoes mixed into the dough.
The sweet potatoes add a subtle earthy flavor while keeping the rolls moist. They’re perfect for serving warm before the main meal.
You can prepare these rolls ahead of time – the dough needs about 2 hours of prep time and 25 minutes to bake. Their tall, flaky texture makes them stand out on any buffet line.
Serve them with butter for a simple yet impressive starter that complements your Thanksgiving feast.
9. Gooey Baked Brie
Baked Brie is a show-stopping Thanksgiving appetizer that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum impact. When heated, the cheese becomes delightfully melty inside its rind, creating an irresistible gooey center.
You can top your Brie with cranberry sauce and chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a festive touch. Simply bake for 8-12 minutes until the cheese is soft and the toppings begin to bubble.
For an elegant presentation, wrap the Brie in puff pastry before baking. The combination of flaky pastry and rich, melted cheese makes for a crowd-pleasing starter that’s perfect for your holiday gathering.
10. Classic Spinach Dip
Spinach dip remains a Thanksgiving favorite that’s always a hit with guests. This creamy appetizer combines thawed frozen spinach with a rich mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, and sometimes mayonnaise.
For the best flavor, add garlic, yellow onions, and a blend of cheeses like mozzarella. Some recipes include artichoke hearts for extra texture and taste.
Serve your spinach dip warm from the oven with toasted bread slices, crackers, or tortilla chips. This easy-to-make appetizer can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before your guests arrive.
For a beautiful presentation, serve it in a hollowed-out bread bowl with the torn bread pieces arranged around it for dipping.
11. Charcuterie Platter
A charcuterie platter makes a perfect Thanksgiving appetizer that keeps guests satisfied until the main meal. You can easily customize it with seasonal flavors that complement your holiday spread.
Start with a selection of meats like salami, prosciutto, and turkey. Add a variety of cheeses – both soft and hard options work well together.
Include fall-colored fruits such as dried cranberries, apple slices, and grapes. Don’t forget the crackers and bread slices for building the perfect bite.
For a festive touch, add some pickled vegetables, nuts, and honey. Arrange everything on a wooden board or platter with small serving utensils.
12. Butternut Squash Dip
Butternut squash dip is a perfect warm appetizer for your Thanksgiving table. It combines the sweet, caramelized flavor of roasted butternut squash with creamy cheese for a delicious crowd-pleaser.
To make this dip, roast butternut squash until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Then purée it with your choice of cheese – cheddar or goat cheese both work wonderfully.
For extra flavor, add caramelized onions and fresh sage. The result is a creamy, savory-sweet dip that pairs perfectly with crackers, bread, or vegetable crudités.
This healthy appetizer can be prepared ahead of time, making your Thanksgiving meal prep more manageable.
13. Turkey-Shaped Cheese Ball
A turkey-shaped cheese ball makes a fun and festive appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. This creative dish is both delicious and visually appealing.
To make one, you’ll need cream cheese as the base, mixed with shredded cheese and seasonings. Form the mixture into a turkey shape, then use pretzel sticks for feathers.
You can decorate your turkey cheese ball with pieces of bell pepper for the face and wattle. Some recipes suggest adding nuts for extra texture and flavor.
This appetizer is easy to prepare ahead of time. Serve with crackers or vegetables for a crowd-pleasing starter that fits perfectly with your holiday theme.
14. Pastelitos
Pastelitos are a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving appetizer lineup. These flaky pastries are filled with savory or sweet fillings that will delight your guests before the main meal.
For a Thanksgiving twist, fill them with savory options like cheese and ham or pumpkin and spices. The golden, buttery outer layer creates a perfect handheld treat that won’t fill everyone up before turkey time.
You can prepare these ahead of time and simply warm them before serving. Their portable nature makes them ideal for mingling guests who want to snack while socializing.
15. Cacio e Pepe Cheese Puffs
These elegant cheese puffs bring the classic flavors of cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper) to your Thanksgiving table. Made with simple ingredients like milk, butter, flour, eggs, and a generous amount of black pepper and Parmesan cheese.
To prepare them, you’ll heat milk and butter with salt and pepper, then add flour to create a dough. After cooling slightly, eggs are incorporated to create the puff base.
Bake these delightful bites at 425°F until golden and crisp. These cheese puffs offer a perfect blend of rich, cheesy flavor with a peppery kick that will impress your guests as they wait for the main meal.
16. Spicy Green Tahini
Spicy Green Tahini is a flavorful and vibrant appetizer that will impress your Thanksgiving guests. This dairy-free dip gets its creamy texture from tahini (sesame seed paste) combined with fresh greens.
You can make this versatile sauce by blending tahini with herbs, Swiss chard, or other leafy greens until smooth. Add some heat with your favorite spicy elements like jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Serve this dip with crudités, crackers, or pita wedges for a simple yet sophisticated starter. It also works beautifully drizzled over roasted vegetables or as a sauce for proteins.
The bright color and bold flavor make it an eye-catching addition to your holiday spread.
17. Black Olive Tapenade
Black olive tapenade is a rich, bold spread that makes a perfect Thanksgiving appetizer. This briny mixture combines black olives, capers, garlic, and herbs for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
You can serve it with crackers, crusty bread, or fresh vegetable crudités. The zippy taste offers a nice contrast to other traditional Thanksgiving flavors.
For the best results, make your tapenade a day ahead so the flavors can fully develop. It’s simple to prepare in a food processor and stores well in the refrigerator.
This versatile spread can also double as a condiment for your Thanksgiving table, adding a salty kick to turkey sandwiches later.
18. Miniature Deviled Crab Cornbread Muffins
These mini muffins combine the sweetness of cornbread with savory crab for a perfect Thanksgiving appetizer. They’re easy to make ahead of time and will impress your guests.
The recipe calls for a simple cornbread base mixed with crabmeat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce for a slight kick. Green onions and cheddar cheese add extra flavor.
To make them, you’ll mix cornbread mix with milk and egg, then fold in the crab mixture. The result is a tender muffin with a creamy, slightly spicy crab topping that pairs wonderfully with the slightly sweet cornbread.
These bite-sized treats can be prepared in advance, making your Thanksgiving hosting duties much easier.
19. Roasted Grape Ricotta Toast
Roasted grape ricotta toast is a simple yet elegant Thanksgiving appetizer that will impress your guests. Start by roasting grapes with a splash of red wine vinegar and thyme until they’re sweet and bubbling.
While the grapes roast, mix ricotta cheese with lemon zest for a bright, creamy base. Spread this mixture on toasted baguette slices or thick-cut bread.
Top your toast with the warm roasted grapes and their juices. Add a drizzle of honey for sweetness and a sprinkle of flaky salt to enhance the flavors.
This appetizer offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy elements that will start your Thanksgiving meal on a delicious note.
20. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dip
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dip is a quick and delicious Thanksgiving appetizer that needs just a few ingredients. Start with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese as the base.
Spread a layer of pumpkin butter over the cream cheese or mix it in for a more uniform texture. Some recipes use about 4 ounces of pumpkin butter.
You can add a touch of sweetness with Cool Whip or keep it simple with just the cream cheese and pumpkin butter. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds the perfect finishing touch.
Serve this creamy dip with ginger snaps for a classic pairing that balances the smooth dip with crunchy cookies.
21. Festive Butternut Hummus
Butternut squash hummus makes a colorful and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving appetizer spread. This creamy dip combines roasted butternut squash with traditional hummus ingredients like chickpeas and tahini.
You can prepare this appetizer in less than 45 minutes from scratch. The roasted garlic adds depth while the butternut squash provides a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that guests will love.
Serve your festive butternut hummus with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or crackers. The vibrant orange color adds a seasonal touch to your holiday table.
Tips for Selecting Thanksgiving Appetizers
Choosing the right appetizers for your Thanksgiving gathering requires thoughtful planning to ensure everyone enjoys the pre-dinner snacks without spoiling their appetite for the main meal.
Considering Dietary Restrictions
Always gather information about your guests’ dietary needs before planning your menu. Ask about allergies, vegetarian preferences, and other restrictions ahead of time.
Make clear labels for each dish indicating common allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten. This simple step shows consideration for all your guests.
Try to include at least 2-3 options that most people with restrictions can enjoy. Vegetable-based appetizers like butternut squash dip or olive tapenade work well for many dietary needs.
Consider creating a separate area for allergen-free appetizers to prevent cross-contamination. This is especially important for serious allergies.
Don’t make substitutions an afterthought. Your gluten-free or vegan options should be just as delicious and thoughtfully prepared as everything else.
Balancing Flavors
Create contrast in your appetizer selection by including a mix of textures and tastes. Pair creamy dips with crunchy crackers or vegetables.
Include both light and rich options. A cheese board with crackers and fruit provides balance to heavier options like baked brie.
Flavor Profile Balance:
- Savory (cheese, meats, nuts)
- Sweet (fruit, honey drizzles)
- Tangy (olives, pickled vegetables)
- Spicy (for those who enjoy heat)
Keep seasonality in mind. Fall flavors like butternut squash, apple, and sage complement the Thanksgiving theme.
Don’t overdo bold flavors that might overwhelm the palate before the main meal. Subtle, interesting tastes work better than very spicy or intensely flavored options.
Pairing with Main Courses
Consider your main dish when selecting appetizers. If your turkey has strong herbs or spices, choose appetizers with complementary or contrasting flavors.
Time your appetizers carefully. Put out heartier options earlier, saving lighter choices for closer to dinner time to prevent guests from filling up too quickly.
Select appetizers that can be prepared ahead of time. This frees you to focus on the main meal during the busy Thanksgiving day.
Avoid duplicating ingredients or flavors that will appear in your main courses. If your stuffing features sausage, perhaps skip the sausage-based appetizers.
Think about temperature variety too. Room temperature appetizers like a charcuterie board with cured meats, nuts, and fruits require minimal last-minute preparation.
Presentation Ideas for Appetizers
How you display your Thanksgiving appetizers can be just as important as how they taste. Beautiful presentation makes your food more appealing and creates a festive atmosphere for your holiday gathering.
Creative Plating Techniques
Arrange appetizers at different heights using cake stands, wooden boards, or stacked plates to create visual interest. This simple technique makes your food display look more professional and appealing.
Use colorful small plates or ramekins for dips and spreads. Try serving individual portions in shot glasses, mini mason jars, or decorative spoons for easy grab-and-go options.
For cheese boards, create waves or rivers of crackers between cheese varieties. Label each cheese with small cards or flags to help guests identify what they’re enjoying.
Group similar items together and add fresh herbs between sections for color and aroma. Rosemary sprigs and thyme not only look beautiful but add a pleasant scent to your display.
Using Seasonal Decorations
Incorporate fall elements like mini pumpkins, gourds, or colorful leaves around your appetizer platters. These touches instantly convey the Thanksgiving spirit without much effort.
Use hollowed-out small pumpkins as creative serving bowls for dips. They’re perfect for hummus, whipped goat cheese, or butternut squash dip.
Add depth to your table with bundles of cinnamon sticks, pinecones, or small bowls of cranberries between serving dishes. These natural elements bring warmth and seasonal charm.
Consider color when planning your display. Orange, deep red, brown, and gold items complement traditional Thanksgiving foods and enhance the festive mood.
Cloth napkins in fall colors add elegance and can be folded creatively near appetizer stations. They’re practical for guests and add another decorative element to your setup.
