Score big with these 37 game day appetizers

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Are you ready to chow down and cheer on your favorite team? Game day isn’t just about touchdowns and tackles; it’s also about the snacks! Whether hosting a watch party or settling in for a solo sports binge, having the right appetizers can make all the difference.

Mini chicken taco cups on a silver tray.
Mini Chicken Taco Cups. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.
Apricot puff pastry pinwheels on a white trays with a wedge of cheese.
Apricot Pinwheels. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Whip up these Apricot Puff Pastry Pinwheels for a game-day appetizer. Loaded with tangy apricot jam, robust Parmesan cheese, and a hint of fresh rosemary, these bite-sized morsels are the perfect bite-size savory snack.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Parmesan Pinwheels

Baked Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels

Jalapeno popper pinwheels on a silver trays.
Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

These Baked Jalapeno Popper Roll-Ups, filled with cream cheese, fresh jalapenos, and crispy bacon, are a favorite bite-sized tortilla pinwheel. They disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Baked Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels

Mini Chicken Taco Cups

Mini chicken taco cups on a silver tray.
Mini Chicken Taco Cups. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

The Mini Chicken Taco Cups are packed with deliciously seasoned beans and chicken. They’re topped with melty Cotija cheese and a bold kick of flavor from your favorite salsa. They make the perfect half-time appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Mini Chicken Taco Cups

Pear Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Puff pastry appetizer pinwheels on a white board with fresh pears, cranberries and cheese.
Pear Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

We’re big fans of bite-sized appetizers, and these Pears in Puff Pastry Appetizers are a delightful fusion of fruity and savory flavors encased in golden brown, flaky pastry – perfect for game day.
Get the Recipe: Pear Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers

A stack of homemade cheddar cheese crackers.
Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

For game day, we love our crunchy snacks. Bake a batch of these Cheddar Cheese Crackers, they’re a breeze to make with just six ingredients and offer a cheesy, crunchy, and salty goodness.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cheddar Cheese Crackers

Cheese Stuffed Mexican Meatballs

A white platter with cheese stuffed meatballs, limes, radishes and onions.
Stuffed Mexican Meatballs. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Elevate your game day experience with the bold flavors of homemade Tex-Mex Mexican meatballs. Whether served as a main dish or appetizer, these meatballs pack an extra kick of flavor thanks to the gooey, melty cheddar cheese filling that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Stuffed Mexican Meatballs

Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Baked ricotta cheese in a blue casserole dish with sliced bread.
Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon and Herbs. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Apricot Parmesan Pinwheels

For your game day buffet, ensure you have a fantastic dip to complete the spread. Enter the creamy Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon and Herbs, a perfect appetizer that pairs flawlessly with bread, crackers, fresh fruit, or briny olives.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Rosemary Asiago Cheese Popcorn

Popcorn with rosemary and Asiago cheese in a blue bowl.
Rosemary And Asiago Cheese Popcorn. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Savor the tasty combination of rosemary, nutty Asiago cheese, and crunchy popcorn. After all, popcorn and game day are always a perfect match.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Asiago Cheese Popcorn

Queso Fundido

Queso fundido in a cast iron skillet.
Queso Fundido. Photo credit: Feast + West.

For your next game day, serve a skillet of hot queso fundido. This flavorful cheese dip is best served warm on crunchy tortilla chips or soft, warm tortillas.
Get the Recipe: Queso Fundido

Crock Pot Little Smokies

Crock pot little smokies on a spoon over the slow cooker.
Crock Pot Little Smokies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These little sausages cooked in a tangy-sweet sauce are a classic game-day appetizer, and cooking them in a crock pot makes the prep a breeze. They’re bite-sized, rich, and flavorful, and the slow cooking infuses them with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Little Smokies

Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives

a closeup of blue cheese inside of green olives smothered in olive oil and surrounded by fresh rosemary on a blue plate.
Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives are an easy appetizer to make for a quick and can also be a delicious cocktail garnish for martinis and Bloody Marys. Fill green olives with a mixture of creamy, sharp blue cheese and add them to cheese boards or cocktails — or both.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives

Caprese Salad Skewers

caprese skewers on a silver tray.
Caprese Salad Skewers. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Transform your caprese salad into a game-day appetizer by threading it onto skewers. This twist on the classic salad, featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, makes it easy to eat while watching the big game.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad Skewers

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

A plate of bacon wrapped mini peppers.
Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Score big for the ultimate game day appetizer with these Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers. Stuffed with a blend of cream cheese and Everything Bagel seasoning. With a quick prep and bake time of under 1 hour, this easy appetizer offers a winning combo of flavors and textures that’ll have everyone cheering.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

Marinated Cheese

Marinated Cheese.
Marinated Cheese. Photo credit: Feast and West.

In this flavorful, make-ahead appetizer, two kinds of cheese are layered and marinated with herbs and pimento peppers overnight. Scooped onto crackers or bread, Marinated Cheese will be the star of any game day party.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Cheese

Peach Salsa

A bowl of peach salsa with a chip in the bowl, surrounded by cilantro, peaches and chips.
Peach Salsa. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Peach Salsa is the ultimate appetizer. Made with fresh peaches, tomatoes and peppers, you will love this fresh-tasting salsa. Serve it as a dip or spoon it over grilled goodness like chicken breasts.
Get the Recipe: Peach Salsa

Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with green flags.
Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates. Photo Credit: Feast And West.

Make a batch of Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates to enjoy during the big game. They’re an easy appetizer you can make for a crowd and full of sweet and salty flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chorizo Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Shishito Peppers

Shishito peppers that have been blistered covered in sea salt.
Shishito Peppers. Photo credit: Feast + West.

Set out a platter of these blistered shishito peppers is a great way to enjoy this mild-but-sometimes-spicy Japanese pepper for an appetizer. Dip them in your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shishito Peppers

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Hand scooping taco dip with a chip.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Taco Dip with Cream Cheese is an easy meatless appetizer that is a total crowd pleaser. It can be whipped together in only 15 minutes and is a perfect dish for serving at parties, holiday events, or game-day gatherings!
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Cucumber Tomato Bites

A hand holding a cucumber tomato bite.
Cucumber Tomato Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

The need for something quick and flavor-packed is always a winner when making appetizers. Enter these Cucumber Tomato Bites, a speedy, delightful, low-carb vegetarian appetizer ready to impress in less than 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Three loaded zucchini boats on a plate.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Loaded Zucchini Boats are a fun variation of loaded potato skins. They are a fantastic appetizer for any occasion. These flavorful and satisfying snacks hit the spot, whether it’s a party, game day, or holiday gathering. Plus, you can have them prepped, baked, and ready to devour in under an hour!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

A dish of jalapeño spinach artichoke dip with a spoon scooping out a serving.
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This flavorful Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip is an appetizer for any occasion. Jalapeño peppers, fresh spinach, and creamy artichoke hearts come together to create a deliciously cheesy dip that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

3-Ingredient Onion Dip

Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip with vegetable sticks
Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Whip up a quick and tasty onion dip with just three simple ingredients. Create a dip that is flavorful perfect for enjoying your favorite chips and veggies while watching the game.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Onion Dip

Fried Pickles

Fried pickles with dip.
Photo credit: Feast And West

Fried Pickles and game day seem to go together. The coating on these pickles is delectably crisp and bursting with flavor. These delectable snacks or appetizers can be enjoyed alongside a zesty ranch dressing or your preferred dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pickles

Cheesy Cheddar Bacon Dip

Keto Crack Dip with veggies.
Keto Crack Dip. Photo Credit: Primal Edge Health.

Indulge in the irresistible combination of gooey cheddar cheese and crispy bacon in this crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfect for game day gatherings, this dip will have your taste buds dancing with every cheesy, savory bite.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cheddar Bacon Dip

Cheesy Pickle Chips

baked pickle cheese chips with bowl of ketchup on white plate
Cheesy Pickle Chips. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Take your snacking game to the next level with these addictive cheesy pickle chips. The tangy crunch of pickles coated in a golden, melty cheese layer creates a mouthwatering blend of flavors that score for the best appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Pickle Chips

Cheese Curds

Gluten-free keto cheese curds.
Photo credit: Primal Edge Health

Get a taste of cheesy perfection with these bite-sized cheese curds. Fried or baked, they make a tasty bite-size snack while watching the big game.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Curds

Crowd-Pleasing Cheese Ball

nut-free cheese ball and crackers on a plate
Herb-Coated Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Elevate your appetizer spread with this classic cheese ball that never fails to impress. It’s a surefire hit on the game day buffet table, made with a blend of creamy cheeses and a hint of savory seasonings.
Get the Recipe: Crowd-Pleasing Cheese Ball

Pickled Eggs

pickled eggs in glass pitcher
Pickled eggs. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Tangy, flavorful, and oh-so-addictive, these pickled eggs are a unique and delicious option for a game-day appetizer. With their vibrant colors and zesty taste, they add a pop of excitement to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Eggs

Best Easy Chip Dip

Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.
Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip Recipe. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Want to up your snack game? This chip dip is super easy and packed with amazing flavors. It’s the perfect partner for your favorite chips. Set a bowl of it on the coffee table and enjoy dipping while you watch the big game.
Get the Recipe: Best Easy Chip Dip

4-Ingredient Guacamole

two bowls of guacamole on tray with chips and various ingredients
4-Ingredient Guacamole. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

If you’re watching the game, you gotta have some guac too! Dive into the creamy and fresh flavors of this 4-ingredient guacamole. It’s a quick and easy appetizer.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Guacamole

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp skewers on a plate with lemon wedges.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Looking for a game day appetizer? Try these Grilled Shrimp Skewers in the air fryer; they’ll take your appetizer game to the next level!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

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.

Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of cheater chicken empanadas, a tasty appetizer bursting with flavorful chicken and a golden, flaky crust. They’re quick to assemble and take just 15 minutes to cook in the oven for a hot and tasty treat.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Corn Fritters

Stack of three corn fritters on a small white plate.
Corn fritters. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Skip the traditional chips and salsa for game day and make these crispy corn fritters instead. They are a delightful appetizer that showcases the sweetness of fresh corn. These fritters are a crowd favorite and perfect for satisfying game day appetites.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Bacon Deviled Eggs

Bacon deviled eggs in a red platter.
Bacon deviled eggs. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Score big with the smoky and savory flavors of bacon deviled eggs. These creamy and delicious appetizers are a party must-have, adding a touch of indulgence to your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Deviled Eggs

Instant Pot Shrimp

Shrimp in a green and white striped bowl.
Instant Pot Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Try these Instant Pot Shrimp as your game day appetizer. Cook these shrimp straight from the freezer – they are guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser and serve them with a homemade dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Shrimp

Serrano Salsa with Lime

Serrano Salsa in a white bowl garnished with cilantro and a tortilla chip.
Serrano Salsa with Lime. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

On game day, we have a deep affection for spice, especially when it comes to this recipe for a zesty serrano salsa. It incorporates roasted serrano peppers, onions, garlic, cilantro, and lime to create a tangy and delightful dip that pairs perfectly with your preferred tortilla chips.
Get the Recipe: Serrano Salsa with Lime

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.

Sink your teeth into these savory puff pastry beef empanadas, a tasty appetizer that combines tender beef and flaky pastry for a satisfying bite. Handheld food is perfect to eat while watching a game.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Beef Empanadas

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