The 13 appetizer recipes you’ll want to make again and again

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Who needs entrees when you can feast on these 13 top-tier appetizers? Dig into dishes that make you want to ditch the dinner plans and keep the starters coming. If you’ve ever wanted to impress your guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor, these recipes are your new best friends. Let’s just say, they’re repeat-worthy!

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfect for kicking off a festive night or jazzing up a dreary afternoon. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are the firecrackers of the appetizer world. These little bursts of heat and smoke are irresistible, drawing in both the adventurous and the comfort seekers. Their bold flavors are a conversation starter and a palate pleaser rolled into one.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When it comes to game day fare, Buffalo Chicken Dip is a true champion. This hearty dip serves up a hot and creamy bite that perfectly pairs with crunchy dippers. It’s a go-to for sports fans and spice lovers alike, bringing a bit of heat to any party. Lay out this dip when you have a hungry crowd, and it’ll be the highlight of your appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whether it’s a child’s birthday party or an adult soirée, these sliders are sure to be a hit, offering a delicious preamble to any meal. Ham and Cheese Sliders are the comfort food that never disappoints. These little bliss are perfect for any gathering where you want to offer a warm, welcoming bite. They meld gooey cheese with succulent ham in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Spinach Artichoke Dip

A bowl of creamy spinach dip garnished with herbs, surrounded by slices of crusty bread on a blue patterned cloth.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This dip is both rich and comforting, making it a popular choice for those seeking both warmth and flavor in their appetizer. Spinach Artichoke Dip is the creamy, dreamy answer to the question of what to serve as a starter. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers, from crisp veggies to toasted bread, ensuring that every guest finds a combination to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

They provide a pop of color and a burst of flavor that upgrades any appetizer spread. Caprese Pesto Tarts are a fresh take on classic flavors, marrying the brightness of tomato with the richness of pesto in a flaky tart shell. These elegant bites are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate, making them a favorite at formal gatherings and casual picnics alike.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Korean Corn Dogs

Several breaded and fried corn dogs on sticks, drizzled with mustard and ketchup, placed on white crumpled paper.
Korean Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfect for those who love a hands-on eating experience, they make dining both fun and flavorful. Korean Corn Dogs bring a trendy twist to a beloved classic, offering a crunchy, slightly sweet exterior that surprises and satisfies. These are not your average fair food; they’re a stylish step up that will add a spark to your snack lineup. Serve them up at your next social gathering and watch them become the main attraction.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic Cobb Salad turns an ordinary meal into an occasion. This dish is a colorful palette that offers a fulfilling crunch with every forkful, making it a refreshing addition to any appetizer menu. It’s the perfect starter for those who like a bit of variety in every bite. Hosting a brunch or a dinner? Put this salad on the menu and watch it win over hearts with its fresh, vibrant appeal.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Homemade Corn Dogs

Close-up of a bitten corn dog showing its interior with a layer of crispy fried batter and a hot dog inside.
Homemade Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy to hold and fun to eat, they make a playful addition to any casual gathering or family event. Homemade Corn Dogs offer a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a fulfilling crispy coating that encases a juicy, flavorful sausage. These are perfect for anyone looking to recreate the magic of childhood summers at the fair.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Corn Dogs

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who enjoy a hint of international flair, Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers offer a taste of the exotic without leaving your backyard. These skewers are ideal for outdoor events, where the charred, smoky aroma can mingle freely in the air. They’re a great conversation starter, especially when you’re looking to shake up the typical barbecue routine. Serve them up at your next party, and watch them disappear before the first guest leaves.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Close-up of golden-brown air fryer mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley. The mushrooms appear perfectly cooked to a tender texture.
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms, you can enjoy the rich, umami flavor of mushrooms enhanced with a hint of garlic, all without the guilt. These are a smart choice for health-conscious guests who don’t want to compromise on taste. Quick to prepare and delicious to serve, they fit seamlessly into any menu, proving that simplicity can be profoundly fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Close-up of chicken bacon ranch sliders with grilled chicken, bacon, and melted cheese inside a golden bun, garnished with herbs.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sliders always hit the spot, but throw in a classic combo like Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser. These sliders are a perfect pick for a game day or a casual family dinner, delivering big on flavor without needing a ton of prep. They’re easy to grab and even easier to enjoy, keeping both kids and adults coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a sunny day barbecue or a cozy indoor gathering, these sliders fit right in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Indulge your guests with these at your next casual get-together. Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) is super easy and ridiculously delicious, making it the ultimate win-win for any host. These little cups offer a whimsical way to enjoy all the flavors of a taco in one neat package. They’re especially perfect for parties where guests are mingling, allowing for easy eating without the mess.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says party like Bacon Wrapped Smokies, a favorite that combines everyone’s love for bacon with the irresistible charm of little sausages. This appetizer is a staple at celebrations, known for sparking joy and conversation among guests. They’re a cinch to prepare, offering up that savory, smoky flavor that draws people in. Ideal for both large gatherings and intimate get-togethers, these smokies never linger long on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies

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