21 last-minute appetizers everyone will talk about for days

Photo of author

| Published:

When hosting a gathering, having a few standout appetizers can make all the difference in setting the tone for the evening. I’ve discovered some incredible last-minute options that not only impress guests but also spark great conversations. These crowd-pleasers are simple to prepare and guaranteed to leave everyone talking long after the party is over!

A plate of seasoned potato wedges with a side of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The combination of crispy bacon and tender cabbage makes this a perfect choice when you’re in a rush but still want something everyone will love. The air fryer helps speed things up without sacrificing flavor. This bite-sized appetizer comes together quickly and is sure to impress with its texture contrast. Ideal for adding a unique twist to your gathering’s snack offerings. A simple yet memorable option for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers.
Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken skewers are packed with flavor and come together in no time thanks to the air fryer. Their simplicity and versatility make them a great go-to when you need something that can be whipped up fast. Perfect for when you’re hosting a crowd and want to serve something casual but impressive. Whether paired with dipping sauces or enjoyed on their own, these kabobs are sure to leave a lasting impression. They’re light yet satisfying, making them a popular choice at any party.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

A bowl of bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages served on a bed of fresh green herbs.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A classic party favorite, these bacon-wrapped little smokies are quick to make and always a hit with guests. The smoky, savory combo is irresistible and works well as a snack everyone can enjoy with little fuss. The small bites make it easy for guests to grab and go, adding convenience to their appeal. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser or something new to serve, this appetizer won’t disappoint. It’s a reliable, simple dish that’s sure to spark conversations.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Panko shrimp with dipping sauce.
Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

With their crunchy exterior and tender shrimp inside, these panko-fried shrimp deliver on both taste and texture. They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings. Guests will appreciate the crunch in each bite, and the shrimp’s natural flavor shines through. Serve these with a dipping sauce for an even bigger impact. A go-to appetizer that’s bound to be talked about long after the event.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

A plate of jalapeño poppers on a table.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These jalapeño poppers are a crowd-pleasing appetizer with just the right amount of kick. Prepared quickly in the air fryer, they offer a creamy and spicy bite-sized snack that’s hard to resist. Whether served on their own or with dipping sauces, they’re bound to grab attention. The contrasting flavors of cheese and jalapeño make for a fun, dynamic appetizer. A quick win for any event where you want something exciting on the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These grilled shrimp skewers are light yet packed with flavor, making them a quick-to-prep option for gatherings. The grilling process brings out a subtle smokiness, enhancing the shrimp’s natural flavor. They’re easy to eat and make a great finger food option when time is short but you still want to impress. Paired with a dipping sauce, they can be a real conversation starter. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any event.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A favorite among all ages, these chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, thanks to the air fryer. They cook up quickly, making them an ideal choice for last-minute events when you need something reliable. With minimal prep, they’re easy to whip up, but their comforting taste will leave guests asking for more. Serve with dipping sauces to take them up a notch. A simple yet effective appetizer that never fails to please.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Homemade Baked Tortilla Strips

Tortilla strips in wooden bowl.
Homemade Baked Tortilla Strips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These homemade baked tortilla strips are a light and crunchy snack that’s quick to make and versatile. Ideal for pairing with dips, they offer a fresh alternative to store-bought chips. Their crisp texture makes them a great addition to any appetizer spread, especially when you’re short on time but want to add a homemade touch. Serve them with salsa or guacamole to round out the table. Perfect for when you need something quick yet crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Baked Tortilla Strips

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Three grilled shrimp atop cucumber slices garnished with herbs on a white plate with a red checkered napkin partially in view.
Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Fresh, light, and easy to assemble, these shrimp cucumber bites bring together clean flavors for a refreshing appetizer. The combination of cool cucumber and tender shrimp offers a nice contrast that’s both visually appealing and delicious. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, they’re a great choice for when you need something that looks impressive without a lot of work. Perfect for adding a refreshing option to your appetizer lineup. These will stand out for their simplicity and elegance.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy air fryer potato wedges are a classic snack that’s both easy to prepare and highly enjoyable. Cooking them in the air fryer ensures they’re done quickly with minimal effort. They make a great side or stand-alone appetizer, especially when paired with your favorite dips. Guests will appreciate their crispiness and familiar flavor. A straightforward option that’s bound to be a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Mango Salsa

A white bowl filled with diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper salsa is surrounded by tortilla chips.
Mango Salsa. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This mango salsa is a fresh and vibrant option that brings a burst of flavor to any appetizer table. With sweet and tangy notes, it’s a refreshing break from heavier snacks. It’s quick to prepare and pairs perfectly with chips or as a topping for other appetizers. A great way to add a tropical twist to your spread with minimal effort. This salsa is sure to be a conversation starter among your guests.
Get the Recipe: Mango Salsa

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Pasta chips in a white bowl.
Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These air fryer pasta chips are a fun and crunchy alternative to regular chips, and they come together in no time. Their crispy texture makes them perfect for dipping, adding an extra element to your appetizer spread. Quick and easy to prepare, they’re a creative snack that’s sure to get people talking. Serve them with a variety of dips for a playful, interactive appetizer. An easy yet exciting addition to your event.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Zucchini Bruschetta

Baked zucchini bruschetta topped with chopped tomatoes, herbs, and grated cheese on a parchment-lined tray.
Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Zucchini bruschetta is a lighter twist on the classic version and makes for a refreshing, quick-to-make appetizer. The zucchini base adds a fresh element, while the toppings can be customized to fit the occasion. This bite-sized snack is easy to prep and works well when you’re short on time but want something that looks great on the table. Guests will enjoy the bright flavors, making it a memorable choice. A fantastic option when you want something different but approachable.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Popcorn Chicken

A bowl of golden brown popcorn chicken on a table.
Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Popcorn chicken is a universally loved appetizer that’s easy to make and even easier to eat. The crispy coating combined with tender chicken makes it a snack everyone will reach for. It’s quick to cook and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces, adding versatility to your appetizer spread. A great choice when you need something fast yet guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings where you want something familiar and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This bacon-wrapped pineapple appetizer is a sweet and savory treat that’s both unique and quick to prepare. The air fryer helps get the bacon crispy in no time, and the pineapple adds a tropical twist. The balance of flavors makes it a snack people will be talking about well after the event. A perfect option when you want something fun and easy to serve. It’s the kind of appetizer that stands out for both its flavor and simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Stack of bacon wrapped onion rings.
Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon-wrapped onion rings are a bold, flavorful appetizer that comes together quickly, offering a crunchy and savory bite. The combination of crispy bacon and onion makes for a memorable snack that’s easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a fast cooking time, they’re perfect for last-minute events. Guests will love the unique take on traditional onion rings. A great addition to any appetizer lineup that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Jalapeño Popper Dip

A cast iron skillet filled with a cheesy dip.
Jalapeño Popper Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This jalapeño popper dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer that offers the perfect amount of spice. It’s quick to throw together and ideal for serving with chips or crackers, making it great for last-minute gatherings. The bold flavors of jalapeño and creamy cheese make it a snack guests won’t soon forget. Serve it hot to keep the conversation flowing. A comforting, shareable dip that will have people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Dip

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped in a small bowl of sauce, with a green leaf garnish on the side.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This bacon-wrapped shrimp is a quick and impressive appetizer that combines crispy bacon with tender shrimp. The air fryer makes preparation simple and fast, ensuring it’s ready in time for any gathering. It’s a great balance of flavors that guests are sure to talk about long after. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance without a lot of fuss. A fun option for any event where you want to serve something that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bacon-wrapped salmon bites offer a rich and flavorful option for any appetizer spread. Quick to prepare, they’re an ideal choice when you need something that’s both easy and sophisticated. The contrast between the crispy bacon and tender salmon will make this a standout dish at any event. They’re bite-sized and perfect for mingling guests. A simple yet impressive option that adds a touch of luxury to the table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate.
Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These beef quesadillas are a warm and comforting appetizer that can be made in a pinch. With their cheesy, savory filling, they’re a great choice for feeding a crowd. The crispy exterior and flavorful beef filling will have guests reaching for seconds. Quick to prepare, they make a perfect option for last-minute appetizers. A familiar and satisfying snack that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Crab Rangoon Dip

A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip.
Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab Rangoon dip offers a creamy and indulgent option for a warm appetizer that’s quick to prepare. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it pairs well with chips or crackers, making it a crowd favorite. Perfect for when you need something to serve on short notice but still want to impress. Guests will love the familiar flavor of crab with a creamy twist. A warm, shareable dish that’s sure to be talked about.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.