19 New Year’s Eve appetizer recipe ideas that carry the party through midnight

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A good appetizer can set the tone for the whole night. This list of 19 New Year’s Eve appetizer recipe ideas covers everything from quick crowd-pleasers to casual grazing picks. A few hold up well on the counter, while others work best served hot during the action. However you’re ringing in the new year, these make party planning a little easier.

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy.
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy Crab Rangoon

A bowl of fried wontons served with a side of red dipping sauce and a small dish of chopped green onions.
Crispy Crab Rangoon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Start the celebration with this Crispy Crab Rangoon that always disappears fast. The golden, crispy shell holds a creamy, savory filling everyone loves. It’s the kind of appetizer that’s easy to grab and even easier to enjoy while mingling. Perfect for New Year’s Eve, this recipe sets the mood for a fun and memorable night.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Crab Rangoon

Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Bite-Sized Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed with bold flavors in every tiny bite, this Bite-Sized Mini Tacos recipe is a surefire party favorite. They’re easy to eat while mingling and keep the energy alive all night long. The fun, festive vibe these little tacos bring makes them a standout on your New Year’s spread. They’re proof that great things can come in small packages.
Get the Recipe: Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

Beautiful Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, pickles, green olives, blue cheese, breadsticks, baguette slices, grapes, a jar of honey, and a round cheese topped with a dollop of jam.
Beautiful Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

An elegant display like this Beautiful Charcuterie Board instantly levels up your party spread. It combines a perfect mix of textures and flavors, making it a centerpiece guests will gather around. Easy to customize and visually stunning, it’s ideal for a festive night. This is the kind of appetizer that feels as impressive as it looks.
Get the Recipe: Beautiful Charcuterie Board

Crispy Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Crispy Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A classic hit, this Crispy Shrimp Toast will have guests reaching for seconds all night long. The crunch of the toast combined with the savory shrimp topping is just the kind of combination that feels worthy of a celebration. It’s easy to serve, and it pairs seamlessly with your party drinks. Set the tone for a memorable evening with this treat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

Scallion Pancakes

Four cooked scallion pancakes on parchment paper, garnished with sliced green onions, with a small bowl of dipping sauce and a whole scallion beside them.
Scallion Pancakes. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Flaky layers and a savory touch make this Scallion Pancakes recipe such a satisfying option for any celebration. Perfect for sharing, they’re great for keeping the vibe relaxed but delicious. Whether plated for the buffet or served as hors d’oeuvres, they’re always a welcome addition. Add them to your menu for a cozy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Round baked brie cheese topped with walnuts, fresh thyme, and drizzled honey, served in a wooden container.
Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Celebrate in style with this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie that brings richness to the party. The melted cheese pairs beautifully with crackers, fruit, or bread for a luscious bite. It’s the kind of appetizer that guests won’t stop talking about as they gather around the table. Perfect for adding a touch of indulgence to the evening.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Chicken Pinwheels

Close-up of baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with cheese, herbs, and finely chopped toppings, garnished with sliced green onions.
Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rolled and packed with tasty ingredients, this Chicken Pinwheels dish is as fun to eat as it is to serve. Perfectly bite-sized, they’re great for keeping the snacks flowing without missing a beat. Whether displayed on a platter or passed around, they fit seamlessly into a night of celebration. This recipe combines convenience with party-worthy flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pinwheels

Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

A plate of deviled eggs garnished with paprika and chopped parsley, with a small dish of sauce on the side.
Million Dollar Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Creamy and flavorful, this Million Dollar Deviled Eggs recipe takes a classic favorite to party-ready territory. They’re quick to grab and always one of the first dishes to disappear. There’s something about deviled eggs that feels timeless yet festive, making them a hit for any crowd. Add them to your spread for a touch of comforting indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Deviled Eggs

Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

A close-up of a serving of shrimp garnished with chopped green onions, red chili slices, and cilantro, placed in a bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Lightly crispy and perfectly seasoned, this Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp adds bold flavors to your New Year’s celebration. It’s a balance of crunch and spice that feels exciting yet comforting. Enjoyable on its own or paired with dipping sauces, it’s a dynamic choice for any menu. This dish shines bright as a party standout.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chinese Salt & Pepper Shrimp

Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels

Close-up of puff pastry rounds topped with ground meat, shredded lettuce, sesame seeds, and a creamy sauce, arranged on parchment paper.
Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bring some fun to the party with these Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels that pack a punch of big flavors. Easy to eat and loaded with layers of goodness, they’re a guaranteed hit for any crowd. They’re ideal for keeping things relaxed yet delicious during your celebration. Start the new year off with a recipe that everyone will rave about.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Big Mac Pinwheels

Cheesy Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips.
Cheesy Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you need a go-to appetizer, this Cheesy Rotel Dip always delivers as a party favorite. Creamy, rich, and just the right amount of savory, it’s a dish that suits any occasion. It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for those last-minute get-togethers. Once it’s served, you can count on it being the star of the snack table.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rotel Dip

Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Close-up of several baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with minced meat, arranged on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Flaky Sausage Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp, golden, and packed with flavor, this Flaky Sausage Pinwheels recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of appetizer that feels fancy but requires minimal effort. Perfect for mingling, these easy bites can be prepared ahead and baked fresh when guests arrive. They add just the right touch to keep the party mood vibrant.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Hot Crab Dip

A spoon lifts a portion of cheesy baked pasta topped with chopped parsley from a casserole dish.
Hot Crab Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

If you’re looking for something warm and indulgent, this Hot Crab Dip is a must-have. It blends creamy textures with rich seafood flavor to create a dish that feels special for any celebration. Ideal for crackers, bread, or even veggies, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. Everyone will be talking about this crowd-favorite long after the party ends.
Get the Recipe: Hot Crab Dip

Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture.
Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Every bite of this Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders recipe captures the essence of comfort food. Small but packed with all the goodness of a classic burger, they’re perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. They’re easy to grab, making them great for mingling or watching the festivities. Serve these, and you’re guaranteed to keep plates full and guests happy.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip

A bowl of creamy dip garnished with chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, rosemary, olive oil, and black pepper.
Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Light, creamy, and a little unexpected, this Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip brings something unique to your spread. It’s a versatile option that pairs beautifully with fresh veggies, warm bread, or chips. Its tangy, smooth flavor has a way of standing out among other appetizers. Once people taste it, they’ll keep coming back for more, it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A baked pull-apart bread ring with melted cheese and cranberries on a gray plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs.
Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm, sweet, and cheesy, this Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread feels like a little celebration in every bite. It combines soft bread, tart cranberries, and melty brie into a shareable masterpiece. The gooey texture and festive colors make it stand out on any party table. Whether served fresh out of the oven or at room temperature, this one always leaves a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

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.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

With smoky bacon and just the right amount of heat, this Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls recipe is what party snacks are all about. They’re easy to shape and serve, making them perfect for a busy night of hosting. Their bold flavors bring excitement to any appetizer table. People never fail to ask for the recipe after trying these, don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fun, shareable, and perfectly crispy, this Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls recipe is a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages. The warm, cheesy filling wrapped in a crunchy exterior makes it irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or a full-fledged appetizer, they fit seamlessly into any party atmosphere. Expect these to be devoured before you know it!
Get the Recipe: Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy.
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bite-sized and loaded with bold flavors, this Smoky Bacon Pig Shots recipe always turns heads. The smoky, savory combination wrapped in salty bacon creates something truly unforgettable. They’re easy to serve, making them perfect for entertaining without hassle. Just one bite will have everyone reaching for more before you’ve even had a chance to grab one for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

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