Did you know that nearly 80% of Americans say Thanksgiving is their FAVORITE holiday because it brings people together over a shared meal?
It’s not just about the turkey and stuffing, though—the appetizers set the tone for the feast!
Looking to surprise your guests with something fresh, fun, and unforgettable?
From festive twists on classic flavors to playful bites your kids will love, these creative appetizers will keep everyone coming back for more.
Let’s dive into some crowd-pleasing starters that will make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
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[1] Pumpkin Fluff Dip
This one’s always a hit with the kiddos!
Whipped, creamy, and bursting with pumpkin spice, this dip is perfect for fall.
Serve it in a hollowed-out mini pumpkin and let the kids dip graham crackers or apple slices—they’ll feel like it’s dessert before dinner.
Check out the full recipe here.
[2] Cranberry Brie Bites
For an easy, elegant treat, cranberry Brie bites bring together tangy cranberry sauce and creamy Brie cheese, wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
These bite-sized delights are perfect for guests who want to nibble while catching up.
Check out the full recipe here.
[3] Mini Cheese Balls
Who doesn’t love a good cheese ball?
Make these mini versions with your favorite cheeses and roll them in crushed nuts, dried cranberries, or fresh herbs.
They’re fun to decorate with the kids and add a pop of color to your holiday spread.
Check out the full recipe here.
[4] Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Herbs
These stuffed mushrooms are so satisfying—filled with sausage and herbs, they pack in a hearty flavor.
Plus, you can prep them the night before and just bake them before guests arrive. WIN-WIN!
Check out the full recipe here.
[5] Sweet Potato Crostini
Sweet potatoes topped with goat cheese, honey, and pecans make for a light and colorful bite.
This crostini is an excellent choice if you’re looking to keep things festive and health-conscious.
Check out the full recipe here.
[6] Apple Gouda Pigs in a Blanket
Take pigs in a blanket to the next level by adding a slice of tart apple and creamy Gouda.
Wrap these bites in buttery pastry and serve with honey mustard sauce—everyone from toddlers to grandparents will love them.
Check out the full recipe here.
[7] Cranberry Salsa with Cream Cheese
Add some color and spice with this cranberry salsa.
It has just the RIGHT mix of sweet and spicy flavors and looks gorgeous on the table when paired with cream cheese and crackers.
Check out the full recipe here.
[8] Maple-Roasted Pecans
These roasted pecans are a crunchy, sweet-salty treat.
They’re so easy to make, and you can even have the kids help toss them in the maple syrup before roasting.
Perfect for a quick snack while everyone waits for the turkey.
Check out the full recipe here.
[9] Caramelized Onion Tartlets
Mini tartlets filled with caramelized onions and a hint of thyme make for a sophisticated bite.
They’re buttery, flavorful, and great for making in batches ahead of time.
Check out the full recipe here.
[10] Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Bread
Take spinach dip up a notch by baking it into crusty bread.
It’s warm, gooey, and a huge crowd-pleaser.
Plus, there’s no need for extra dishes—just tear and share!
Check out the full recipe here.
[11] Butternut Squash Fritters
These fritters are a cozy, seasonal appetizer that’s great for guests who want a warm bite.
Pair them with a creamy dip or sprinkle with herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Check out the full recipe here.
[12] Prosciutto-Wrapped Pears with Blue Cheese
Simple yet elegant, these pear and blue cheese bites wrapped in prosciutto are a little sweet, a little salty, and a lot of delicious.
These come together in MINUTES and make a beautiful addition to any Thanksgiving table.
Check out the full recipe here.
[13] BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Bites
These bites are pure comfort food.
Crispy on the outside and filled with BBQ pulled pork and gooey mac and cheese, they’re sure to be a favorite for kids and adults alike.
Check out the full recipe here.
[14] Pomegranate Guacamole
This is not your average guac!
Fresh pomegranate seeds add a pop of sweetness and crunch, making it the perfect, colorful dip to pair with tortilla chips or fresh veggies.
Check out the full recipe here.
[15] Cheddar and Chive Gougères
Light, airy, and filled with cheddar flavor, these French cheese puffs are perfect for nibbling.
Plus, they pair perfectly with a holiday cocktail for a classy starter.
Check out the full recipe here.
Gather Around and Get Snacking!
Thanksgiving is all about gathering, savoring, and CELEBRATING with loved ones.
These appetizers offer a little something for everyone—some kid-friendly, some elegant, and all of them delicious!
Which one are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more holiday inspiration!
These mini cheese balls look adorable but I’m worried about them rolling all over the place on the platter! 😂 any tips to keep them in place or ideas for fun add-ons?
Thinking about making the stuffed mushrooms with sausage for our family get-together! anyone tried swapping in something veggie-friendly, like spinach, instead of sausage?
I’m totally making the cranberry brie bites this thanksgiving! Do they get soggy if you make them ahead of time? I’d love to prep as much as possible beforehand. anyone tried this? 🍂
You can actually prep the cranberry brie bites in advance! Just assemble everything but don’t bake until right before serving. that way they stay crisp and perfect for guests. Worked like a charm for me last year! 👍