The holiday season is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about delicious dishes to serve at your gatherings. One of the most important parts of any meal is the appetizer – after all, a great first course can set the tone for the rest of the evening. For Thanksgiving, you’ll want to create a spread that’s both festive and flavorful, with plenty of options to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouth-watering Thanksgiving appetizer recipes that are perfect for a crowd. From savory bites like Cranberry Brie Bites and Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms, to sweet treats like Maple Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Dates and Apple and Cheddar Mini Hand Pies, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your apron and get cooking – it’s time to create some unforgettable appetizers for your Thanksgiving celebration!
Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized appetizers combine the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tart sweetness of cranberries, perfect for a holiday party or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp of honey
– 1 tsp of orange zest
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh thyme
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. Place a tablespoon of brie cheese in the center of each square. Top with a few cranberries, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of orange zest and thyme.
4. Fold the pastry squares over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tsp water).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips
Experience the warm flavors of autumn with this creamy and delicious Pumpkin Hummus, perfect for snacking or as a dip for your favorite pita chips!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil until fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + 0 minutes (cooking)
Sweet Potato Crostini with Goat Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory combination of roasted sweet potatoes, creamy goat cheese, and crispy crostini.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, bake the baguette slices for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
4. Spread a small amount of goat cheese on each crostini.
5. Top with roasted sweet potato and season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
A savory twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the rich taste of turkey and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced turkey breast
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, cheese, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Sweet and savory come together in this unexpected yet delightful appetizer: Maple Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Dates.
Ingredients:
– 12 dates, pitted
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the maple glaze over the dates, making sure they’re all coated.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Butternut Squash and Sage Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets are a perfect representation of the cozy, warm flavors of autumn. Sweet roasted butternut squash and savory sage come together in harmony to create a delightful treat for any season.
Ingredients:
– 1 small butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– 2 sprigs of fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the butternut squash for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. Spoon a small amount of roasted squash onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/4 inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped sage and a pinch of salt over the squash.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including roasting time)
Pecan and Gorgonzola Stuffed Celery
This sweet and savory snack is a unique twist on traditional stuffed celery. The crunch of the pecans pairs perfectly with the tanginess of the gorgonzola cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 stalks of celery
– 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the top third off each celery stalk.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, crumbled gorgonzola cheese, and honey until well combined.
3. Stuff each celery stalk with the pecan-gorgonzola mixture, dividing it evenly among the stalks.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Dip
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts with the savory goodness of a creamy bacon dip, perfect for a quick and delicious side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and cooked bacon.
5. Serve roasted Brussels sprouts with warm bacon dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple and Cheddar Mini Hand Pies
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a snack or as a sweet-and-savory addition to your favorite holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith work well)
– 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together diced apples and melted butter.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the apples.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling and press edges to seal using a fork.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Place hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each pie.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Soup Shooters
Elevate your gatherings with these warm and comforting Spiced Pumpkin Soup Shooters. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this recipe serves up a flavorful and festive treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and pureed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Ladle into small cups or shot glasses. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Palmiers
Elevate your pastry game with these buttery, flaky palmiers infused with the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Brush the edges of the pastry with water. Place a quarter of the caramelized onions down the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese and fold the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Use a rolling pin or your hands to shape into palmiers. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Cream Cheese and Cucumber Rounds
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing and flavorful combination of herbed cream cheese and crunchy cucumber rounds. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cucumber slices (about 1/4 inch thick)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, chives, and lemon zest until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a plate or platter.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the herbed cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Cornbread Stuffing Muffins
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these moist and flavorful Cornbread Stuffing Muffins, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme)
– 1/4 cup crumbled cornbread stuffing mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornbread mix, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, heavy cream or half-and-half, and chopped herbs. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in crumbled cornbread stuffing mix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip
Elevate your party with this sweet and spicy dip that combines the tartness of cranberries with the heat of jalapeños. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside crackers, chips, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add sugar, cranberries, jalapeño, lime juice, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is set and slightly puffed.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan and Thyme Shortbread Crackers
A delicate and savory twist on classic shortbread, these crackers are perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite soups or cheeses. With the brightness of thyme and the nuttiness of Parmesan, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and thyme leaves.
5. Gradually add water as needed to form a cohesive dough.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes or simply tear into small pieces.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cracker.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and White Bean Spread
Transform humble garlic and cannellini beans into a rich, creamy spread perfect for crackers, bread, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 heads of garlic
– 1 (15.5 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic head, exposing the cloves.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into a blender or food processor.
5. Add cannellini beans, lemon juice, salt, and any desired Parmesan cheese to the blender.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting time) + 2-3 minutes blending
Turkey Meatball Sliders with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your slider game with these tender turkey meatballs, perfectly sized for a bite-sized snack or meal. The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce adds a delightful twist to the classic slider.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Lettuce, cheese, tomato, pickles, etc. (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a few meatballs onto each bun.
6. Serve with cranberry sauce and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Seed and Rosemary Flatbread
This flatbread recipe combines the nutty flavor of pumpkin seeds with the herbaceous taste of rosemary, creating a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flours, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Sprinkle pumpkin seeds and rosemary on top.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and honey (if using).
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Autumn Harvest Cheese Board
Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this colorful and delicious cheese board, featuring a mix of creamy cheeses, sweet fruits, and crunchy nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 block cheddar cheese, aged to perfection
– 1 wheel brie cheese, soft and creamy
– 1/2 cup caramelized figs, sweet and savory
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, for added crunch
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries, tart and tangy
– 1 tablespoon honey, drizzled to perfection
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheddar cheese block on a large platter or board.
2. Place the brie cheese wheel nearby, allowing it to be easily accessible.
3. Scatter the caramelized figs around the cheeses, creating a colorful pattern.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries over the figs, adding texture and contrast.
5. Drizzle the honey over the board in small amounts, creating a sweet and savory balance.
Cooking Time: None needed! Assemble the cheese board just before serving to enjoy the flavors of autumn.
Mini Sweet Cornbread Loaves with Honey Butter
These bite-sized cornbread loaves are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. Sweet and buttery, they’re a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Honey, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
8. Serve warm with honey butter (mix softened butter with a drizzle of honey).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests this Thanksgiving with these 20 delicious and festive appetizer recipes perfect for a crowd. From sweet potato crostini to cranberry jalapeño cream cheese dip, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try making pumpkin hummus with pita chips or turkey and cheese stuffed mushrooms. For a sweet treat, go for maple glazed bacon-wrapped dates or apple and cheddar mini hand pies. Whatever you choose, your guests are sure to love these tasty Thanksgiving appetizers.
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