Everyone loves a good happy hour appetizer or just something to munch on before dinner is ready. These appetizers, however, are so good you’ll probably end up spoiling your appetite for the main course and we can’t really blame you. Whether it’s a creamy dip or a crunchy savory bite, these appetizer recipes are the ones you can count on time and time again.
Spinach Cheddar Cakes
Perfect for snack lovers, these spinach and cheddar cakes are a crowd-pleaser with their creamy buffalo dip sidekick. They’re easy to whip up, making them a go-to for busy hosts. The blend of spinach and sharp cheddar wrapped in a crispy exterior is a hit at any event, promising to keep your guests coming back for more. They’re the ideal mix of convenience and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Cheddar Cakes
Blue Cheese Steak Crostini
Steak and blue cheese on garlicky toast? Yes, please! These crostinis are the ultimate appetizer, combining rich flavors that are sure to impress. They’re quick to make, offering a fancy bite without the fuss. The salty blue cheese and tender steak with a drizzle of balsamic reduction make these bites unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Steak Crostini
Roasted BBQ Chickpeas
With their crispy texture and universally loved BBQ flavor, these roasted chickpeas are always a hit. Don’t be surprised if people scoop them up by the handful if you put these out on the table!
Get the Recipe: BBQ Roasted Chickpeas
Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites
These bites are where it’s at – crispy sweet potato edges with soft centers, all topped with guacamole and bacon. It’s a flavor explosion in a bite-sized snack. They’re easy to make and even easier to devour, perfect for a party or a chill night in. Plus, who can resist bacon?
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Guacamole Bacon Bites
Roasted Red Pepper Dip
This roasted red pepper dip is smooth, smoky, and just the right amount of creamy. It’s packed with flavors from fresh basil, lemon, and garlic, making it a hit with chips or crackers. A great choice for when you want to whip up something quick and have everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Parmesan Crisps
These parmesan crisps require just one single ingredient and are ready in 5 minutes. While they’re great for topping soups and salads, they’re also a crave-worthy appetizer that’s both low-carb and keto friendly. Everyone loves their salty, savory taste!
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Crisps
Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites
Imagine all your favorite flavors in one bite – that’s what these buffalo chicken broccoli cheddar bites offer. They’re the perfect mix of spicy and cheesy, ideal for game day or any day, really. Easy to pop in your mouth and hard to stop, these bites are a definite win.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Bites
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
This creamy spinach artichoke dip is a classic for a reason. It’s warm, comforting, and goes perfectly with whatever you feel like dipping. Great for sharing (or not), it’s a fuss-free appetizer that always gets the thumbs up.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls
Sweet, savory, and a little tangy, these cranberry cheddar sausage balls are the appetizer you didn’t know you needed. They’re great for the holidays or as a game day snack. Serve them with cranberry sauce for dipping and watch them disappear!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cheddar Sausage Balls
Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip
Dive into this cheesy goodness with a spicy chipotle twist. It’s perfect with chips or roasted veggies, making it a versatile pick for any gathering. Baked to perfection, this fundido dip is all about bringing the heat and the flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Crispy, garlicky, and oh-so-addicting, these air fryer zucchini chips are the healthier snack you’ve been looking for. They come together in no time, making them an easy choice for a quick appetizer or side. Plus, no breading means less fuss and more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Carne Asada Nachos
These aren’t just any nachos – they’re loaded with perfectly grilled carne asada, cheese, guac, and all the best toppings. They’re a meal on their own and sure to be a hit at any party. Every bite is a mix of flavors and textures that just works.
Get the Recipe: Carne Asada Nachos
Spicy Seasoned Pretzels
Spice up your snack game with these homemade seasoned pretzels. They’re perfect for dipping or just as they are. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re the ideal grab-and-go snack.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Seasoned Pretzels
Air Fryer Gnocchi
Cauliflower gnocchi gets a crispy makeover in the air fryer, making it the perfect appetizer or side. It’s simple, quick, and you’ll love the golden result. Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these are a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Gnocchi
Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp
Get all the flavor of your favorite restaurant shrimp at home with this baked bang bang shrimp. Crispy, crunchy, and with a sauce that packs a punch, it’s a healthier take that doesn’t skimp on taste. Perfect for when you’re craving something special but want to keep things simple.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Bang Bang Shrimp
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
