27 simple and delicious appetizers you’ll want to eat instead of dinner

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When dinner rolls around, appetizers can steal the show. These 27 simple and delicious recipes will make you forget the main course. Why not snack your way through your meal tonight? From crispy bites to creamy spreads, each dish is easy to make and everyone will love them. Small bites are more fun!

A close-up of a bacon-wrapped date held by a hand with a toothpick, with multiple bacon-wrapped dates on a tray in the background.
Bacon Wrapped Dates. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Whipped Vegetable Bruschetta

Image shows a white tray with Whipped Vegetable Bruschetta close up.
Whipped Vegetable Bruschetta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Enjoy the bright flavors of whipped vegetable bruschetta, where fresh veggies blend smoothly with creamy ricotta cheese. Topped with prosciutto, this dish makes a tasty appetizer served on crusty bread. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will impress anyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Vegetable Bruschetta

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Close-up of a hand holding a pretzel chip dipped in a creamy, orange-colored cheese spread. A bowl of the buffalo chicken dip is in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy and spicy, Buffalo Chicken Dip is a favorite for gatherings. This easy-to-make dip combines shredded chicken with hot sauce and creaminess for a flavor-packed treat. Perfect with tortilla chips or celery sticks, it is sure to be a hit at any event.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites

Image shows a hand holding a quarter of a Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bite with more on a white tray in the background.
Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These bacon cheddar bites on English muffins are a fun way to start any meal. The cheesy mixture is simple to prepare and offers a perfect balance of flavors. They are quick to make and will be gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites

Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This photo shows a hand scooping out baking spinach artichoke dip from a white casserole dish.
Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a classic appetizer that everyone loves. It mixes together easily ahead of time, allowing it to bake fresh when guests arrive. This creamy dish pairs well with crackers or bread, making it a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza

Image shows a close up of an Asparagus and Goat Cheese Pizza on a pizza peel sitting on a black counter.
Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This asparagus and goat cheese pizza offers a fresh twist on a classic favorite. With no sauce and minimal cheese, it is surprisingly simple to prepare and full of flavor. Each slice is a delicious way to start a meal and is sure to catch everyone’s attention.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza

Chicken Taco Wraps

Image shows an overhead shot of chicken taco wraps cut into pinwheels and on a wooden skewer.
Chicken Taco Wraps. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken taco wraps are a quick and tasty option when using leftover rotisserie chicken. They require no cooking, keeping things easy and cool in the kitchen. Filled with fresh ingredients, these wraps are perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Wraps

Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Image shows an overhead shot of puff pastry Chicken Empanadas on a white tray.
Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cheater chicken empanadas are a delightful appetizer that is simple to make. They are filled with tasty chicken and wrapped in a flaky crust, making them easy to eat at any gathering. These hand-held treats are bound to impress guests and satisfy cravings.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Brazilian Cheese Bread

Hand breaking apart brazilian cheese bread with more in a bowl behind it.
Brazilian Cheese Bread. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Pão de Queijo, or Brazilian cheese bread, offers a unique taste that is sure to please. With a crispy outer layer and a soft, cheesy inside, these gluten-free bites are great for snacking. They are a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Brazilian Cheese Bread

Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos

Image shows a white tray filled with Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos.
Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos put a tasty twist on a classic snack. Crispy fries topped with flavorful pulled pork and melted cheese create a fun dish for sharing. This crowd-pleaser makes game nights or any gathering even more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork French Fry Nachos

Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Image shows a taquito dipping into a white bowl of Roasted Tomatillo Salsa.
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Roasted tomatillo salsa brings a zesty kick to any appetizer spread. This fresh and vibrant salsa pairs perfectly with chips, tacos, or anything needing a flavor boost. It adds a tangy touch that will keep everyone reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomatillo Salsa

Homemade Nacho Cheese

Image shows a tortilla chip pulling nacho cheese out of a white bowl filled with it.
Homemade Nacho Cheese. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Homemade nacho cheese turns any snack into something special. With a smooth and cheesy flavor, it is perfect for dipping chips or drizzling over your favorite foods. This delicious dip will surely be a hit during gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Nacho Cheese

Chicken Tenders

Image shows Hand dipping a corn flake crusted chicken tender into a bowl of sauce on a wooden table.
Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken tenders are a classic favorite for all ages. They are easy to prepare and have a crispy coating that makes them much better than frozen options. Juicy and flavorful, these tenders will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders

Bacon Wrapped Dates

A close-up of a bacon-wrapped date held by a hand with a toothpick, with multiple bacon-wrapped dates on a tray in the background.
Bacon Wrapped Dates. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Bacon wrapped dates are a tasty combination of sweet and savory. These bite-sized treats are simple to make and offer a delightful flavor mix that pleases everyone. They are perfect for sharing at any gathering and will quickly disappear.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Dates

Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Image shows an overhead shot of Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas on a white tray with a bowl of guacamole to the left of them.
Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Puff pastry beef empanadas are a delicious handheld treat that is easy to make. Filled with tender beef and wrapped in flaky pastry, they are perfect for any occasion. These empanadas will be a hit at any party or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

Sweet and Sour Sauce

Image shows an Egg roll dipping into homemade sweet and sour sauce in a white bowl.
Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Sweet and sour sauce is a versatile addition to many dishes. With a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, it enhances chicken, pork, or veggie stir-fries. It also works great as a dipping sauce for appetizers, making it a must-have.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Chunky Guacamole

Image shows a white bowl with guacamole and a chip sticking in it with more chips on a tray to the right of it.
Chunky Guacamole. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chunky guacamole is a creamy delight that brings a taste of tradition to the table. Combining ripe avocados with zesty lime and roasted tomatoes creates a fresh dip perfect for sharing. This dip is great for parties and casual gatherings alike.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Guacamole

Bacon Deviled Eggs

Image shows bacon deviled eggs in a red tray.
Bacon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Bacon deviled eggs take a classic appetizer to the next level. With a smooth and creamy filling packed with flavor, they are an easy and satisfying choice for any gathering. These eggs will impress guests and are simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Deviled Eggs

Buffalo Chicken Rolls

Image shows A person holding a buffalo chicken roll over a plate filled with more.
Buffalo Chicken Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Buffalo chicken rolls add a spicy kick to any gathering. These flavorful bites are easy to share and sure to keep guests coming back for more. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings, they make a tasty appetizer everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Rolls

Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups

Image shows a close up head on view of Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups on a white tray, topped with guacamole and crumbled cotija cheese.
Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Crockpot Mexican beef served in masa cups is a delicious and satisfying dish. The tender beef, infused with spices, pairs perfectly with crispy masa cups for a delightful bite. This dish brings a taste of Mexico to any meal and is sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Mexican Beef in Masa Cups

Tuscan Artichoke and Sundried Tomato

Tuscan Artichoke and Sundried Tomato. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tuscan artichoke and sundried tomato dip offers a rich and creamy blend of flavors. It pairs well with crusty bread or fresh veggies, making it a standout choice for gatherings. This dip will be a favorite at any party or get-together.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Artichoke and Sundried Tomato

Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

A person is grabbing a piece of bread.
Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cheesy garlic pull apart bread is a simple yet delightful appetizer. This bread is easy to make and perfect for sharing, especially when paired with a hearty soup or salad. It is a tasty addition to any meal that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

BBQ Bourbon Little Smokies

Image shows A person is holding a toothpick with a little smokie over a bowl filled with more bbq bourbon little smokies.
BBQ Bourbon Little Smokies. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

BBQ bourbon little smokies are a flavorful snack perfect for gatherings. These cocktail sausages are cooked in a smoky barbecue sauce, making them a hit at any party. They are easy to prepare and are sure to please a crowd.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Bourbon Little Smokies

Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip

Image shows a hand dipping a cracker into Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip in a ceramic dish.
Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Hot bacon cheddar dip is creamy and packed with flavor. This savory dip is perfect for serving with crackers or veggies, making it a great choice for any gathering. It adds a delicious touch to the appetizer table that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip

Chicago Style Popcorn Mix

Image shows an overhead shot of Chicago style popcorn mix on a wooden table.
Chicago Style Popcorn Mix. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicago style popcorn mix combines sweet and savory flavors in a tasty snack. This easy-to-make treat mixes caramel and cheese popcorn for a delightful munching experience. It is perfect for movie nights or any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicago Style Popcorn Mix

Tomato Bacon Cups

Tomato Bacon Cups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tomato bacon cups offer a rich and creamy filling in a small, tasty package. These appetizers are easy to make and add a touch of flair to any snack table. Guests will love the combination of flavors in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bacon Cups

Spicy Tuna Rolls

Image shows Chopsticks holding spicy tuna roll over a plate with more of the roll.
Spicy Tuna Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Spicy tuna rolls are a fun twist on a classic favorite. Using canned tuna makes this dish easy to prepare while still packing a flavorful punch. It is a great way to satisfy sushi cravings without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls

Non-Traditional 7 Layer Dip

A plate with tortilla chips, black bean salsa, and shredded cheese on a wooden table next to a larger dish of the same dip garnished with diced tomatoes and green onions.
Non-Traditional 7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Non-traditional 7 layer dip stands out with its bold layers of flavor. It is easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether enjoyed with chips or as a dip, it is sure to impress everyone.
Get the Recipe: Non-Traditional 7 Layer Dip

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