Thanksgiving hits different when everyone brings something to share—and these starters make sure you show up as the guest everyone’s thankful for. Whether you’re headed to a family feast, a Friendsgiving spread, or an office potluck, these crowd-pleasing apps deliver big flavor with little fuss.
From buttery pastry-wrapped Brie to bite-sized sausage balls and spiced pecans, every dish here is designed to impress before the main course even hits the table. So grab a platter, claim some counter space, and get ready to watch your contribution disappear first.
Deviled Eggs
DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS
“These deviled eggs are delicious and always popular at our holiday parties,” says recipe creator Suzanne EE. Diced onion and celery in the creamy mayo filling add crunch and flavor to this classic appetizer. Sprinkle with paprika for that nostalgic finishing touch.
Chef John’s Cheese Sticks
Photographer: Brie Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schooley
“These twist cheese sticks are easy and cheesy,” says Chef John. “This super simple recipe uses frozen puff pastry, so there’s no dough to make.” Buttery, flaky, and golden, they’re the kind of snack that disappears before you can even set out the marinara.
Mouth-Watering Stuffed Mushrooms
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
“I never have any leftovers. Even my young son loves the flavorful filling,” says home cook Stephanie G. These savory bites are little umami bombs—stuffed with herbs and cheese, baked until tender, and ready to impress at any gathering.
Glazed Spicy Cinnamon Pecans
Photographer: Brie Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schooley
Sweet meets heat in this irresistible snack. “Loved the ease of making this recipe,” one reviewer raves. “Will be adding it to my appetizers list this Thanksgiving.” These candied pecans bring a cozy crunch that fits right in with the season.
Sausage Balls
Meredith Food Studio
Three ingredients, endless applause. “Savory sausage, store-bought biscuit mix, and sharp Cheddar cheese team up for a flavor that can’t be beaten!” says recipe creator Stephanie. They’re golden, cheesy, and the first thing guests reach for—whether it’s brunch, game day, or holiday night.
Best Cheese Ball
Photographer: Brie Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schooley
“This was my first attempt at making a cheese ball. It was SO easy and tasted really savory,” says reviewer Terri McHugh. Rolled in herbs and nuts, this creamy, crowd-favorite appetizer proves that a little retro flair never goes out of style.
Baked Stuffed Brie with Cranberries & Walnuts
Photographer: Brie Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schooley
“This is the easiest and most delicious dish to serve as a starter,” says community member Sheila Grace Ferguson. Wrapped in flaky pastry, this Brie bakes up into a molten masterpiece. When you cut into it and the cheese and cranberries start oozing out—expect applause.
Savory Pumpkin Hummus
Photographer: Brie Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Kristin Schooley
“Made this to take to Thanksgiving… it was a big hit,” says cookinformygang. With subtle pumpkin flavor and warm spices, this creamy hummus brings an autumn twist to the classic dip. Serve it with crackers or veggies and watch it vanish.
Cranberry Brie Bites
ALLRECIPES / ANA CADENA
“These cranberry Brie bites are an appetizer that will surely wow your guests,” says Julie Hubert. Tangy cranberry, creamy Brie, and crunchy walnuts come together in buttery puff pastry—an elegant, two-bite wonder you can prep ahead of time.
Prosciutto and Parmesan Pinwheels
Allrecipes / Qi Ai
“I’ve made this decadent appetizer twice, and everyone loved it both times,” says reviewer DNYGARD. Light, flaky pastry swirls around salty prosciutto and Parmesan for a rich, bite-sized treat that feels effortlessly sophisticated.
Best Mushroom Pâté
Allrecipes / Qi Ai
“Absolutely spectacular dish! Great hot or cold,” says Kim. This vegetarian-friendly spread combines earthy mushrooms and toasted walnuts for a hearty, flavorful pâté that’s divine on crostini—or tucked inside puff pastry for extra flair.
Feta Cheese Foldovers
Photographer: Jason Donnelly / Food Styling: Shannon Goforth / Prop Styling: Kristen Schooley
“These can make anyone look like a caterer!” says DIGGETYDOGGIE. Crisp, buttery pastry meets tangy feta and fresh herbs for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer that’s easy to assemble but impressive on the plate.
Cape Cod Cocktail Meatballs
Allrecipes / Julia Hartbeck
“These cocktail meatballs are perfect for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or any party where you want to impress,” says Robin Myshrall Ulery. Simmered in a sweet-tart cranberry glaze, they’re festive, flavorful, and destined to disappear fast.
Slow Cooker Cocktail Smokies
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
“This little smokies recipe is so easy to make in the slow cooker for a party appetizer,” says Malina Bleeding Heart Morris. Just toss in the ingredients, let them simmer, and serve—it’s the low-effort, high-payoff favorite every host loves.
Best Spinach Dip Ever
Allrecipes/Julia Hartbeck
“My dad’s spinach dip recipe,” says recipe submitter Shawna. “The entire family loves this flavorful spinach mixture served in a tasty bread bowl.” Creamy, garlicky, and endlessly scoopable—this nostalgic dip is the ultimate holiday crowd-pleaser.
