If you’re thinking of a way to kick off a meal, these appetizers might just be the star of the night. Packed with flavors that are hard to resist, they’re perfect for sharing—or not, because who can stop at just one? From small gatherings to big celebrations, these 15 appetizers are bound to disappear fast. Get ready for the inevitable: someone asking for the recipe before the main course even hits the table.
![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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MSN-Bacon-Popper-Cheeseballs.jpg)
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MSN-Grilled-Thai-Chicken-Skewers.jpg)
Starting your meal with Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers is like bringing a small piece of Thailand to your table. Each skewer is packed with juicy chicken that’s been marinated in a blend of spices and herbs before hitting the grill. The charred edges add a smoky touch that complements the tender meat perfectly. Sharing these might be a challenge because everyone will want more than one.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/MSN-Ham-and-Cheese-Sliders.jpg)
Ham and Cheese Sliders are not just any mini sandwich. They come loaded with juicy ham and melted cheese packed between soft, sweet rolls. These bite-sized delights are brushed with a buttery mustard glaze, giving them a rich flavor that’s hard to resist. They’re perfect for gatherings where you want to impress without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/MSN-Cobb-Salad.jpg)
Who said salads are boring? Cobb Salad disagrees with that notion, bringing a hearty mix of grilled chicken, avocado, bacon, eggs, and cheese, all atop a fresh bed of greens. It’s a dish that proves salads can be both nutritious and exciting, with every bite offering a new taste and texture. Whether you’re looking for a lighter option or a dish that still satisfies, this salad swings both ways.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad
Caprese Pesto Tarts
![Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MSN-Cheesy-Caprese-Pesto-Tarts.jpg)
Caprese Pesto Tarts are a game-changer for anyone looking to spruce up their appetizer game. With ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and homemade pesto all nestled in a flaky tart crust, it’s a simple yet elegant option. These tarts are a hit at any table, promising a burst of flavor in every bite. They’re a testament to how simple ingredients can create something incredibly inviting.
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/MSN-Korean-Corn-Dogs.jpg)
Dig into the world of street food with Korean Corn Dogs, a twist on an American classic that’s hard to pass up. Coated in a sweet and crunchy batter, then deep-fried to golden perfection, these dogs are then rolled in sugar and drizzled with ketchup and mustard. The blend of sweet, savory, and crispy textures makes for an unforgettable eating experience. It’s a fusion dish that’s been gaining fans worldwide for a good reason.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs
Crunchy Onion Rings
![A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MSN-Onion-Rings.jpg)
For those who crave something crunchy, Crunchy Onion Rings offer a fulfilling crunch with every bite. These rings are coated in a seasoned batter and fried until they’re golden brown. They’re the perfect side or snack that pairs well with practically any dipping sauce you love. It’s an all-time favorite that never gets old, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Pigs in a Blanket
![Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MSN-Pigs-in-a-Blanket.jpg)
Pigs in a Blanket bring back that nostalgic feeling of childhood with a gourmet twist. Wrapped in a buttery crescent dough, these little sausages turn into golden bites of joy once they come out of the oven. They’re the perfect finger food that gets everyone talking and munching. Watch them disappear from the plate faster than you can serve them!
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MSN-Chicken-Bacon-Ranch-Sliders.jpg)
When craving something a bit more filling, Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders have got you covered. They’re packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and drizzled with creamy ranch dressing, all sandwiched between soft rolls. These sliders are the ultimate comfort food that’s hard to resist at any gathering. Just be ready to share the recipe because everyone will ask for it.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
![A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MSN-Bacon-Wrapped-Sugar-Smokies.jpg)
For a snack that screams indulgence, Bacon Wrapped Smokies are the way to go. Each little sausage is wrapped in bacon and baked until the bacon is crisp and the smokies are sizzling. They’re usually the first to go at parties because who can resist bacon? Don’t be surprised if these become a regular request from friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Buffalo Chicken Dip
![A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MSN-Buffalo-Dip.jpg)
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a crowd-pleaser with just the right amount of heat. Shredded chicken gets mixed with hot sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing, creating a creamy dip that’s hard to stop eating. Accompany it with chips or veggies for dipping, and watch it vanish before halftime. It’s the ultimate dip for any gathering, especially if you love a bit of spice.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
![A close-up image of three seasoned and grilled ears of corn arranged on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MSN-Air-Fryer-Corn-on-the-Cob.jpg)
Getting corn on the cob perfectly done is an art, and Air Fryer Corn on the Cob recipe nails it every time. There’s no need for boiling water or heating up the grill, as your air fryer turns out corn that’s cooked just right with a hint of roast to it. All it takes is a bit of butter and a sprinkle of salt to enhance its natural sweetness. This is a straightforward and mess-free way to get a classic side dish that complements just about any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Garlic Bread
![Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MSN-Garlic-Bread.jpg)
Who doesn’t love the warm, comforting taste of Garlic Bread right out of the oven? This recipe brings out a soft, buttery interior paired with a lightly toasted top, making it impossible to resist grabbing a second piece. It’s the perfect starter for dinners or a great side to your favorite pasta dish. The garlic is prominent but not overpowering, creating a balance that garlic lovers will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
![Close-up of cooked chicken thighs, seasoned with herbs and garnished with chopped parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MSN-Air-Fryer-Chicken-Thighs.jpg)
Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are about to become your new go-to for a quick and fulfilling appetizer. The air fryer works its magic, reducing the oil but not the flavor, giving you that perfect texture that’s usually hard to achieve. Whether you’re hosting a game day or just want a simple and delicious snack, these chicken thighs won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Spinach Artichoke Dip
![A bowl of creamy spinach dip garnished with herbs, surrounded by slices of crusty bread on a blue patterned cloth.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Spinach-Artichoke-Dip.jpg)
If you’re looking for something that’s a hit at every party, then Spinach Artichoke Dip is your answer. The creamy blend of cheese, spinach, and artichokes offers a rich taste and comforting warmth, perfect for dipping your favorite chips or veggies. It’s easy to put together and can be served hot or cold, making it as versatile as it is delicious. Grab a bowl of this dip, and watch it disappear faster than you can make it.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip
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.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/MSN-Bacon-Popper-Cheeseballs.jpg)
For a truly irresistible bite, Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls pack a punch with their bold flavors. Wrapped in crispy bacon and spiced with jalapeño, these cheese balls are the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, spicy and savory. They’re an excellent choice for anyone looking to spice up their appetizer game. Easy to pick up but hard to put down, these are sure to be a major hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls