Get ready to make everyone at the party wish they had your recipe secrets. These 17 party pleasers are the ones that get people talking and asking, “Who made this?” Whether you’re hosting or just bringing a dish, you’ll see some serious side-eye from anyone who brought a less impressive plate. Recipe envy is real, and you’re about to cause it.
Loaded Tater Tots
Loaded Tater Tots turn a casual gathering into a memorable one. People often hunt for something crispy and savory when they’re milling around, chatting. This recipe guarantees that your serving plate comes back empty every time. It’s the combination of cheese, bits of bacon, and that perfect bite of potato that locks in its popularity.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
If you’re aiming for a dish that people can’t stop reaching for, Bacon Wrapped Smokies are your go-to. The sweet and savory mix catches everyone off guard – in a good way, of course. Plus, they’re so easy to pick up and munch on while having a good time. No one ever has just one; they keep coming back until the plate is clean.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Garlic Bread
There’s always a crowd gathered around this Garlic Bread. It’s the warm, comforting scent that lures people in, and the perfect golden crust that makes them stay. Not to mention, it’s the side that goes with almost everything. It’s usually the first to run out, so you might want to make a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs
Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs are the ideal set-it-and-forget-it party dish. By the time guests start arriving, they’re ready to go, smothered in a cheesy, spicy sauce that’s hard to resist. They bridge the gap between hearty appetizer and main dish, making them a big hit. Plus, the slow cooker keeps them warm throughout the party, so latecomers aren’t left out.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Nacho Meatballs
Buffalo Chicken Dip
When you put out a dish of Buffalo Chicken Dip, it becomes the star of the snack table. It blends the right amount of heat with creamy, cheesy goodness, making it hard to walk away from. Bring plenty of chips or veggies for dipping because this dish goes fast. It’s that perfect blend for spicy food lovers and cheese fanatics alike.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Crunchy Onion Rings
A party isn’t complete without Crunchy Onion Rings. They’re the side that offers that fulfilling crunch with every bite. Guests often hover over them, coming back for that irresistible texture and taste. The golden brown coating hides the sweet, tender onion inside – a contrast that’s just perfect.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings
Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a Blanket are a classic for a reason. They’re the ultimate fingertip food, ideal for munching without missing a beat in conversation. The pastry wrapped around each sausage is buttery and flaky, making them impossible to resist. They’re often the first to be snatched up, so positioning them front and center is a smart move.
Get the Recipe: Pigs in a Blanket
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)
This dish stands out for offering something fresh among the party favorites. They pack all the bold tastes of a taco into a neat, edible cup. Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) is not only tasty but also adds a pop of color to your food spread. Guests appreciate the thought of including a lighter, yet equally tasty option.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)
Ham and Cheese Sliders
Ham and Cheese Sliders bring together salty ham and creamy cheese in a way that’s hard to beat. They’re the warm, melty comfort food everyone craves, especially in a laid-back party setting. Sliders make it so that everyone can indulge without feeling too full. Just watch as they disappear faster than you can pull them out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders
Cobb Salad
If you’re looking for a dish that feels a bit more upscale, Cobb Salad is the choice. It’s a refreshing break from the usual party foods, offering a dose of greens packed with flavor. The combination of chicken, avocado, bacon, and blue cheese means there’s something in it for everyone. It’s often the dish that guests talk about long after the party’s over.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders combine many beloved flavors into one small package. With the juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and that ranch flavor everyone loves, they’re a hit. They balance being both filling and appetizing, perfect for a party setting. It’s hard not to go back for seconds or even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Caprese Pesto Tarts
Caprese Pesto Tarts offer a burst of color and a burst of taste in a bite-sized package. The freshness of tomato, the creamy mozzarella, and the hint of pesto create a perfect trio. They’re an elegant addition to any table, impressing guests with little effort. These tarts manage to make simplicity look and taste extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
For a dish that pairs sweetness with crunch, Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a sure winner. It’s the mix of textures and the sweet and savory profile that makes it so appealing. This salad is a go-to for an effortless, yet sophisticated party dish. Don’t be surprised if guests ask for the recipe before heading out.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Korean Corn Dogs
Korean Corn Dogs are an exciting twist that brings a bit of international flair to your party. They’re a conversation starter, thanks to their unique look and fusion of flavors. Guests love the crispy coating and the surprise of melted cheese with each bite. It’s a fun, unexpected treat that sets your menu apart from the typical party fare.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
These skewers bring a little bit of spice and a lot of flavor. Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are easy for guests to grab and go as they mix and mingle. The Thai-inspired seasonings make each skewer a memorable bite. It’s a great way to introduce a bit of international cuisine into your gathering in an approachable way.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms
For a side that’s both simple and spectacular, Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms are the answer. They come out perfectly cooked every time, with a garlicky aroma that beckons from across the room. It’s the kind of dish that makes guests appreciate the wonders of a good air fryer. Not to mention, they’re a healthier option that still packs a lot of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls
This recipe is a bold choice that pays off. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls mingle spice, smokiness, and creamy cheese in every bite. It’s a hands-on snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. There’s always a crowd around this dish, proving it’s a surefire hit for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls