34 Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Appetizers Everyone Will Love

Thanksgiving is almost here, and with it comes the thrill (and sometimes the stress!) of preparing a memorable holiday feast. We know your mind is probably spinning with plans for the turkey, casseroles, sides, potatoes, and, of course, desserts. But in the midst of all this prep, don’t overlook a crucial part of the day: the Thanksgiving appetizers.

While you’re working your magic in the kitchen, a spread of easy, delicious starters will keep your guests happy, occupied, and engaged with each other—helping to set the festive tone right from the start. With these 34 easy Thanksgiving appetizers, you’ll find plenty of simple yet impressive options that are as easy to make as they are delicious.

1. Red Lentil Squash Soup with Lemon

The magic of this Thanksgiving soup lies in its simplicity—it simmers away with minimal effort, blending into a gorgeous autumnal hue that's perfect for the holiday table.

Serve it in shot glasses for a quick, crowd-pleasing appetizer, or let guests ladle small bowls straight from the stove or a cozy slow cooker setup. Any leftovers? Freeze portions to enjoy comforting dinners long after the holiday is over. This versatile soup brings warmth and ease to your Thanksgiving feast.

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2. Baked Brie with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs elevate a warm, melty wheel of brie, adding rich flavors and a touch of sophistication. Serve it alongside crostini or simple crackers for an appetizer that’s both elegant and easy, sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

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3. Bacon Ranch Cheese Ball

Skip the fuss of an intricate cheese platter and opt for a flavor-packed cheese ball that’s sure to be a hit with your guests. This easy-to-make appetizer combines creamy cheese with savory mix-ins, rolled in crunchy nuts or fresh herbs for extra texture and visual appeal.

Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile—pair it with crackers, sliced veggies, or even apple slices for a crowd-pleasing bite that’s as festive as it is delicious.

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4. Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Flatbread

Quick to assemble and endlessly customizable, naan provides the perfect base for all your favorite toppings—whether it’s savory spreads, fresh veggies, or melted cheese. These easy-to-make apps add a fresh twist to your party spread and are guaranteed to impress.

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5. Apricot-Glazed Bacon Spiral

With just five ingredients, this appetizer packs all the best fruity and smoky flavors into a delightful, bite-sized spiral. These sweet and salty morsels come together in no time, making them the perfect starter to set the tone for a hearty dinner. Easy to prep and big on flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with guests from the very first bite.

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6. Whipped Feta Roasted Potatoes

Crispy, golden potatoes are generously spooned onto a velvety cloud of whipped feta, creating a harmonious contrast that’s utterly satisfying. Finished with a bright shower of lemon zest and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this dish elevates comfort food to a whole new level. It truly doesn’t get much better than this irresistible blend of flavors and textures!

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7. The Best Classic Deviled Eggs

Creamy mayonnaise, tangy mustard, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and your favorite seasonings create a perfectly balanced filling that’s smooth, flavorful, and satisfying.

Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, fresh herbs, or even a dash of hot sauce for a little kick. These deviled eggs are not only easy to make but also the perfect appetizer for any gathering, bringing a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of flavor to the table.

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8. Slow Cooker Cranberry BBQ Meatballs

Inspired by the classic grape jelly and chili sauce meatballs my mom used to make for holiday gatherings, this version delivers all those nostalgic flavors but without gluten, added sugar, or preservatives.

The best part? Just toss everything into the crock pot, set it, and let it work its magic while you focus on other things. The result is tender, flavor-packed meatballs that will be the star of any spread, with minimal effort required!

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9. Extra-Crispy Eggplant Crostini

Instead of bread, slices of panko-crusted eggplant are fried to golden perfection in a cast iron skillet, creating a deliciously crisp base for your favorite toppings. Layer them with savory options like capicola and chopped pepperoncini, fresh mozzarella and tomato, Spanish anchovies, olive tapenade, or sautéed mushrooms.

These versatile eggplant "crostini" bring a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to your appetizer spread, offering a fresh and unique way to impress your guests.

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10. Autumn Kale Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

Made with thinly sliced kale, juicy pomegranate seeds, crisp Honeycrisp apple slices, and crunchy candied almonds, it’s all tossed together in a sweet and tangy Apple Cider Vinaigrette.

This salad is not only fresh and healthy but also easy to make—an ideal addition to any Thanksgiving table. Its beautiful colors and rich flavors make it a standout side that guests will love!

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11. Sausage and Sage-Stuffed Acorn Squash

In just under 30 minutes, you can serve up these stuffed squash halves, perfect for adding a cozy, autumnal touch to your table.

Fresh flat-leaf parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan give this vegetarian dish a polished, restaurant-worthy look, while the flavors capture all the warmth and richness of fall. This quick and satisfying recipe is an easy way to impress guests with minimal effort.

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12. Pigs in a Blanket

13. Mini Mushroom Pies with Thyme

Mini mushroom pies feature a delicious filling of savory mushrooms, thyme, and garlic, all nestled within a flaky, buttery crust. These bite-sized treats pack a burst of flavor and are perfect for any gathering. They offer a delightful combination of earthy ingredients and light pastry, making them an impressive appetizer that your guests will love.

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14. Caramel Apple Nachos

Crisp slices of green apples are drizzled with warm caramel sauce and coated in creamy white chocolate, then topped with crushed candy bars for a delightful crunch.

This sweet treat combines the tartness of the apples with rich, gooey caramel and the smoothness of chocolate, making it a perfect indulgence for any occasion. It’s a fun and visually appealing dessert that can easily be shared at gatherings or enjoyed as a personal snack.

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15. Bourbon Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Meatballs

Bourbon Apple Cider Glazed Turkey Meatballs are enhanced by fresh fall apple cider, which creates a delightful sweet and savory glaze.

This combination makes the meatballs irresistibly delicious, serving as a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. The flavors embody the essence of autumn, making them an ideal choice for seasonal celebrations.

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16. Thanksgiving Cheese Board

A delightful charcuterie and cheese board highlights the rich flavors of fall, making it an ideal choice for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or any autumn gathering.

Featuring a variety of seasonal cheeses, cured meats, and vibrant fruits, it combines visual appeal with deliciousness. Effortlessly assembled, it encourages sharing and allows guests to savor a mix of tastes and textures, adding a festive touch to your celebration.

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17. Bacon Corn Dip

So irresistible, you'll want to skip the chips and savor it straight from the bowl with a spoon. This delightful appetizer is perfect for gatherings, pairing well with an assortment of dippers. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night in, it's sure to be a favorite among guests.

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18. Easy and Healthy Vegetarian Mezze Board

A vibrant Mediterranean mezze platter makes entertaining a breeze, whether for a light meal with friends or a full family feast! Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also nutritious and incredibly easy to assemble.

Featuring an array of colorful dips, fresh veggies, olives, and pita, this platter is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Perfect for any occasion, it brings together delicious flavors with minimal effort.

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19. Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Crispy bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and salty flavors, making them an essential appetizer for your fall holiday gatherings.

These easy-to-make bites feature tender Brussels sprouts enveloped in crispy bacon, ensuring a satisfying crunch with each bite. Perfect for impressing guests at any event, they bring a delicious twist to traditional holiday fare.

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20. Country Ham and Cheese Biscuit Bites

Country Ham and Cheese Biscuit Bites are destined to become a family favorite! These delightful morsels transform simple biscuits into a savory appetizer perfect for casual gatherings or as a tasty addition to your brunch spread. With their rich flavors and satisfying texture, they are sure to please everyone at the table.

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22. Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks

Each crunchy celery stick is generously filled with spicy chicken tossed in a zesty homemade buffalo wing sauce, then finished off with a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing.

This delightful combination not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a healthier twist on traditional appetizers. Easy to prepare, these bites are guaranteed to impress your guests and elevate your snack spread!

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24. Best Tomato Tart with Puff Pastry

Pair it with a fresh salad and a glass of wine for a delightful meal. The flaky, buttery pastry contrasts beautifully with the juicy, ripe tomatoes, creating a satisfying dish that highlights seasonal produce. It's a versatile option that’s sure to impress your guests while keeping the preparation light and uncomplicated.

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25. Everything Flatbread with Smoked Salmon

Topped with a generous layer of cream cheese, smoky salmon, crisp cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes, it brings together a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

All of this sits on a flatbread seasoned with everything bagel spices, adding an extra layer of savory goodness. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, this colorful creation is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

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26. Jammy Upside-Down Onion Tart

This elegant tart features perfectly caramelized onions that become irresistibly sweet as they slowly cook, nestled on a buttery, flaky crust. With each bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of rich flavors and textures, highlighted by a hint of thyme that adds a fragrant note.

The tart is not only visually stunning with its glossy onion topping but also incredibly versatile—perfect as a stunning appetizer, a side dish, or a light lunch paired with a crisp salad.

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28. 10-Minute Cozy & Creamy Pumpkin Hummus

Its rich, velvety texture and warm flavors make it the perfect dip for any seasonal gathering. Serve it alongside crisp, sliced veggies, crunchy pita crackers, or vibrant root vegetable chips to add a touch of elegance and color to your spread.

This festive dip not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a seasonal charm to your table, making it an irresistible treat for family and friends alike. Enjoy the comforting flavors of fall in every delicious scoop!

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29. Vietnamese Grilled Clams with Oyster Sauce and Peanuts

These clams are grilled to perfection and infused with a savory oyster sauce that enhances their natural brininess, while a sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds a satisfying crunch.

The dish is garnished with fresh herbs, bringing a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich, smoky notes from the grill. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, these grilled clams are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavors and inviting aroma.

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30. Creamed Kale Tart with Goat Cheese and Crispy Capers

This savory tart features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a luscious blend of creamy kale and sweet sautéed red onions, creating a comforting yet sophisticated flavor profile.

The addition of crispy capers on top adds a burst of salty crunch, elevating the dish and providing a delightful contrast to the creamy filling. Perfect as a hearty appetizer, a brunch centerpiece, or a light dinner paired with a fresh salad, this tart is both satisfying and visually stunning.

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31. Spicy Stuffed Tomatoes

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Moroccan Stuffed Tomatoes, where juicy tomatoes are hollowed out and filled with a fragrant mixture of spiced couscous, fresh herbs, and savory ingredients.

Each bite offers a delightful burst of warmth and sweetness, making these stuffed tomatoes a perfect appetizer or light main course. Beautifully presented and packed with flavor, they’re sure to impress at any meal!

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32. Flaky Broccoli Cheddar Soup Mini Pies

Try the Extra Flaky Broccoli Cheddar Soup Mini Pies for a delightful take on comfort food. With a buttery, flaky crust that holds a rich, creamy filling of broccoli and cheddar, these mini pies deliver warmth and flavor in every bite.

They make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or light meal, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night at home. These tasty bites are sure to please everyone at your table!

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33. Crispy Eggplant Polenta Bites with Lime

Fantastic Thanksgiving appetizers that combine the savory flavors of eggplant with the comforting texture of creamy polenta.

These bites feature perfectly roasted eggplant slices that are coated in a crispy layer, creating a satisfying crunch in every mouthful. Served with a flavorful dipping sauce, they make for a delightful addition to any gathering or a tasty snack to enjoy at home.

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34. Pull-Apart Pesto Turkey Sliders

These sliders are loaded with savory ground turkey, gooey melted cheese, and vibrant pesto, all enhanced by a generous spread of garlicky herb butter. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making these sliders a delicious and convenient choice for snacks, lunches, or entertaining. Enjoy them warm for an irresistible treat that will keep you coming back for more!

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