21 go-to appetizer ideas that aren’t hard to make

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For easy, enjoyable parties, choose these go-to appetizer ideas that are quick to make and great to eat. Whether you want cheesy snacks or fresh veggie bites, there’s something here for every kind of party and event. These 21 appetizers come together quickly to let you enjoy more time with your guests so you can have a fun and stress-free experience with less time spent in the kitchen.

A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

A cracker being dipped into a dish of jalapeño cranberry dip.
Jalapeño Cranberry Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This dip is a mix of spicy jalapeño and sweet cranberry. It’s easy to make and quick, making it perfect for holiday parties and events. Just mix it up, and it’s ready to serve, adding a unique flavor to your table. It’s a straightforward snack that your guests will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

Chili Cheese Dip

Chili cheese dip with toppings on it.
Chili Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

You can prepare this Chili Cheese Dip in just 30 minutes. It’s uncomplicated and flavorful, ideal for parties. Just combine the ingredients and bake. This dip is great for sharing and is sure to be a favorite at your event.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cheese Dip

Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Sausage balls on a plate with a side of dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Make these Sausage Balls in 30 minutes, perfect for game days or parties. Start by mixing, then roll and bake. They have a nice flavor that guests often enjoy, making them a practical choice for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

A pan of taco dip with cream cheese, vegetables, and shredded cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Taco Dip is a breeze to make, needing just 15 minutes. Start by mixing cream cheese with taco seasoning for a flavorful blend. It’s a great pick for any party and is easy to serve with your favorite snacks.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just an hour, you can whip up these Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. They are filled with a delicious mix of chicken, bacon, and ranch. Easy to dip and eat, they’re sure to be a hit. You’ll impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are a hit for any occasion. They’re filled with flavorful sausage and are easy to make ahead of time. This appetizer is both impressive and simple to prepare. It’s perfect for stress-free hosting, leaving you more time to mingle.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Halloumi Fries

A person pulling apart a halloumi fry.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Prepare Halloumi Fries in just 25 minutes for your next party. They’re seasoned and baked quickly, a great pick when you need a fast appetizer. They’re sure to be extra popular at your next party.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

Loaded Zucchini Boats

Zucchini boats stuffed with bacon and sour cream.
Loaded Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Loaded Zucchini Boats take just 50 minutes to prepare. They’re stuffed with bacon and sour cream for a delicious taste. Perfect for casual get-togethers, they’re easy to make. You won’t be stuck in the kitchen, giving you more time to enjoy talking with friends.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Zucchini Boats

Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Jalapeño spinach artichoke dip in a white dish with a spoon.
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Ready in 50 minutes, the Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip is easy to make. It combines jalapeños, spinach, artichokes, and cream cheese for a great flavor. It’s something you’ll be proud to serve. It’s a stress-free way to make your menu stand out.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip

Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers

Bacon Wrapped Peppers ready to enjoy.
Bacon Wrapped Peppers. Photo Credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon Wrapped Mini Peppers are prepared and ready in just 45 minutes. They’re stuffed with cream cheese and easy to prepare. These peppers add a special touch to your appetizers. They’re simple yet impressive, making them a great choice for any event.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Mini Peppers

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Garnished shrimp cucumber bites on a plate.
Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Shrimp Cucumber Bites are a fresh, light choice that takes only 25 minutes to make. They feature ingredients like shrimp, Cajun seasoning, guacamole, and cucumbers. They’re easy to prepare and add a fun flair to your party menu. They’re a great option for a refreshing appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Baked tomatoes with cheese and basil on a baking sheet.
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In less than 30 minutes, you can create Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. This dish pairs ripe tomatoes with melted cheese for a wonderful flavor. It’s straightforward yet memorable, making it a great addition to any meal. This appetizer is sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese

Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats

A cucumber boat with tomatoes and bacon on it.
Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats are quick to assemble, taking only 10 minutes. They offer a crunchy and flavorful experience. They’re a solid choice for when you want to spend more time with your guests and less in the kitchen. These boats are both easy and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Tomato Avocado Cucumber Boats

Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

A hand holding a toothpick with a bacon egg and cheese breakfast slider.
Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you have 30 minutes, these Breakfast Sliders are a great option. They mix bacon, egg, and cheese for a delicious taste in each bite. Each one is easy to eat, making them perfect for parties.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sliders

Cucumber Tomato Bites

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

Ready in under 30 minutes, Cucumber Tomato Bites are a good choice for a lighter appetizer. They offer a refreshing crunch with the combination of cucumber and tomato. Quick to prepare, they provide a healthier option that your guests will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Bites

Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

Four cucumber boats on a white serving platter.
Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

It takes just five minutes to prepare these Cucumber Boats. Topped with avocado and cream cheese, they’re a simple and flavorful choice. Sprinkle some Everything Bagel seasoning on top for some added flavor and texture in every bite!
Get the Recipe: Everything Bagel Seasoning Cucumber Boats

Buffalo Deviled Eggs

Buffalo deviled eggs garnished with paprika and green onions.
Buffalo Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In just 30 minutes, these Buffalo Deviled Eggs add a spicy twist to a classic. The buffalo sauce brings a lively flavor that’s sure to spark conversation. They’re attention-grabbing and leave a lasting impression, making them a fantastic addition to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Deviled Eggs

Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped pickle bite skewered with a toothpick.
Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites are ready in 30 minutes with just five ingredients. The combination of pickles and bacon offers a unique and enjoyable flavor. They’re a fun choice for any party, and are sure to be loved by your guests.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pickle Bites

Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats

Spicy tuna cucumber boats on a plate.
Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats can be made in 30 minutes and bring bold flavors to your table. They are simple to prepare and can be served with various dipping sauces. This recipe is a great way to add a distinctive touch that your guests will remember.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Mini spicy canned salmon patties in a serving bowl.
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In 30 minutes, you can serve up these Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. They are easy to make and pair well with different sauces. These patties offer a bold flavor, making them an impressive addition to any appetizer spread. They’re a straightforward yet enjoyable choice.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Bacon pickle boats stuffed with cream cheese on a plate next to a bowl of dip.
Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon Pickle Boats can be made in under an hour. They combine the crunch of pickles with the richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in bacon. This appetizer is simple to make and memorable. It’s an excellent choice for impressing your guests with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed with Cream Cheese

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