19 party winners that have everyone racing to your house before the ball drops

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Make your house the go-to spot for New Year’s Eve celebrations with a menu that promises something special for everyone. These party-ready recipes are designed to bring fun and flavor to the table, keeping your guests happily mingling as they await the countdown. With a mix of hearty and shareable options, they’re ideal for creating a welcoming atmosphere as friends and family gather before the ball drops.

Sauerkraut Balls in a skillet on a white background.
Sauerkraut Balls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce on a black bowl.
Tzatziki Sauce. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Whether you’re spreading it on a warm pita or using it as a dip for veggies, Tzatziki Sauce adds a refreshing touch to your party spread. Its creamy texture and hint of garlic are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, while the subtle notes of cucumber keep things interesting for your guests. It’s an easy way to bring a touch of Mediterranean flair to your festivities.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki Sauce

Pico de Gallo

Pico de Gallo on a black cast iron bowl with chips and jalapeno on the background.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brighten up your snack table with Pico de Gallo, a vibrant and fresh salsa that’s always a hit. Its chunky texture and balance of flavors work perfectly atop your favorite tortilla chips or as an accompaniment to grilled meats. It’s the no-fuss solution for adding a splash of color and taste to your celebration. Every scoop promises a burst of flavor that is sure to keep the conversation as lively as the party itself.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

An  winter vanilla thyme vanilla paloma mocktailwith a sprig of thyme.
Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma offers a twist on a classic cocktail to toast the occasion. The herbal notes of thyme paired with vanilla create a warming experience in every sip. Its sophisticated profile offers an excellent companion to toasting the winter season. Share this unique beverage with your guests as you count down to the year ahead.
Get the Recipe: Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

Crab Rangoon Dip

Crab Rangoon Dip in a black square dish.
Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Transform a beloved appetizer into a shareable treat with Crab Rangoon Dip. It brings the essence of your favorite takeout item to a whole new format that’s perfect for dipping. Everyone will be clustered around this dish, eager to scoop up its creamy goodness. Dish up this favorite and watch it disappear quicker than the last seconds of the old year.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Baked Scotch Eggs

Scotch Eggs on a black plate.
Baked Scotch Eggs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those seeking a hearty appetizer, Baked Scotch Eggs offer a satisfying bite. These are bound to become a talking point, with their golden exterior and savory inside. Easy to grab and go, guests can mingle while enjoying this British-inspired treat. Serve these up for a rich and appetizing kick-off to your evening.
Get the Recipe: Baked Scotch Eggs

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let Beef Wellington Bites bring a sense of sophistication to your casual gathering. These morsels provide an elegant take on a classic dish in a bite-sized form. Guests will appreciate the attention to detail, and these bites are sure to be a memorable addition to your soirée. It’s the kind of appetizer that makes guests feel extra special as they celebrate with you.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

A tray of cheddar bacon loaded tater tots, drizzled with Alfredo sauce, with a hand-picking one up.
Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bringing home a favorite snack, Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots will disappear before your eyes. These crispy treats are an undeniable hit that will have people talking well into the New Year. They’re the ultimate comfort snack, delivering a familiar yet irresistible twist. Be prepared for requests for the recipe and for these tots to become a tradition at your annual bash.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Cheddar Bacon Loaded Tots

Sausage Rolls

Sausage Rolls on a white plate.
Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When it comes to party foods, Sausage Rolls are a must-have at any gathering. The flaky crust and savory filling are a perfect match, sure to please the palates of your guests. Serve them warm, and watch them become the highlight of your appetizer table. With these delicious rolls, your party is set to be remembered for its scrumptious spread.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Rolls

Smoked Blackberry Margarita

Smoked Blackberry Margarita with smoke coming out the top of the glass.
Smoked Blackberry Margarita. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Introduce a unique concoction with Smoked Blackberry Margarita and watch the reactions unfold. This cocktail marries smoky undertones with the slightly tart sweetness of blackberries, creating a perfectly balanced drink option. It’s a standout beverage that can easily become the signature of your winter celebration. Cheers to a memorable night with a glass that’s as unique as each of your guests.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Blackberry Margarita

Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow

Two glasses of Bailey's Hot Chocolate with marshmallows on the top of it.
Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm up your guests with the irresistible Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow. This indulgent drink combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the smooth taste of Bailey’s, topped with a fluffy marshmallow. It’s the perfect way to offer warmth and cheer as you spend the evening sharing stories and laughter. Pass around this feel-good concoction and enjoy the glow it brings to your friends’ faces.
Get the Recipe: Bailey’s Hot Chocolate with Baileys Marshmallow

Redneck Eggrolls

A hand is holding half of the Redneck Eggrolls, with pieces on a white plate.
Redneck Eggrolls. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Surprise everyone with the unconventional and delicious Redneck Eggrolls. This unexpected fusion appetizer is lined up to be the sleeper hit of the party. As the crunch gives way to the savory filling, you’ll see nods of approval around the room. This dish lends a touch of Southern charm to your upscale affair.
Get the Recipe: Redneck Eggrolls

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Amp up the appetizer game with Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Capturing the essence of the classic sandwich, these tots combine familiar flavors in a novel way. They’re just the thing to keep the party fueled and guests energized for celebrations ahead. Ward off the winter chill with this hearty and heartwarming addition to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Reuben Egg Rolls

A black plate with Reuben Egg Rolls and dipping sauce.
Reuben Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reuben Egg Rolls marries a classic deli favorite with a crispy wrapper. Each one is a taste adventure, complete with all the savory fillings of a Reuben sandwich. Easy to hold while mingling, these egg rolls add a creative twist to your festive offerings. They’re the perfect way for your friends to unwrap a little joy on a chilly evening.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Egg Rolls

Crab Stuffed Mushroom

Close-up of Crab Stuffed Mushrooms garnished with chopped parsley on a slate plate.
Crab Stuffed Mushroom. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For an elegant option, serve up Crab Stuffed Mushrooms that are sure to attract a crowd. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for those looking for something a little lighter but still packed with flavor. As guests pop these into their mouths, they’ll be met with a harmonious blend of seafood and mushroom. It’s an exquisite choice for those who value both taste and presentation.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushroom

Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

A Pecan Bacon cheese ball coated with nuts and herbs on a white plate.
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Watch as Pecan Bacon Cheeseball becomes the centerpiece of your appetizer table. This alluring blend of cheese and bacon creates a focus for interaction as guests gather around to dip and spread. The crunch of pecans provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy cheese. This cheeseball is not just food; it’s a festive focal point that encourages togetherness and good times.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix

A mug of hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks and lemon slices.
Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Embrace the warmth of a cozy winter beverage with Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix. This comforting drink elicits a sense of well-being and relaxation among your chilly guests. The bright lemon and zing of ginger are just the thing to brighten up a chilly evening. It’s the perfect drink to clasp between hands as stories and laughter are shared.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

A plate of Prosciutto & Parmesan Puff Pastry pinwheels.
Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels add a swirl of sophistication to your party fare. As they make their way from platter to palate, the combination of crisp puff pastry with savory prosciutto impresses in both taste and appearance. They’re as delicious to look at as they are to eat, making them a winning choice for social mingling. Expect these spirals to spark conversations as well as cravings.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip

Artichoke Jalapeno Dip in a black bowl with crackers nearby.
Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a little kick with the robust Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip. The creamy base mingles with the bold flavors of artichoke and jalapeno to create a dip that stands out. This dish is a surefire way to bring some energy to the party, matching well with a variety of dippables. It offers a warm reprieve from the cold and turns up the heat in more ways than one.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip

Sauerkraut Balls

Sauerkraut Balls in a skillet on a white background.
Sauerkraut Balls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sauerkraut Balls are an unexpected treat that will have everyone coming back for more. The savory filling encased in a crispy shell is the perfect accompaniment to your beverage of choice. They’re a fun way to introduce a unique and flavorful bite-sized snack to your gathering. Expect them to be a hot topic among your guests as they enjoy the rich layers of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Balls

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