Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. Before the main feast begins, appetizers play an important role in setting the tone for the meal.

They give guests something to nibble on while mingling and help curb hunger as enticing aromas fill the air.

These Thanksgiving appetizer recipes will make your holiday gathering even more special. From savory dips to bite-sized snacks, there are options to please every palate.

You’ll find classic favorites alongside creative new ideas to try. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, these appetizers are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

1. Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage

Stuffed mushrooms with sausage are a tasty appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. You’ll need large mushrooms, Italian sausage, and some simple ingredients.

Start by removing the stems from the mushrooms and chopping them finely.

Cook the sausage in a skillet, breaking it up as it browns. Mix in the chopped stems and some onion.

Fill each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture. Bake them in a 400°F oven for about 15 minutes until the mushrooms are soft and the tops are golden brown.

These savory bites are sure to be a hit with your guests. You can prep them ahead of time and pop them in the oven just before serving.

2. Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are a tasty appetizer for your Thanksgiving spread. You can make them in about 30 minutes with just a few ingredients.

To start, get some puff pastry dough and cut it into small squares. Next, add a piece of brie cheese and a dollop of cranberry sauce to each square.

Bake the bites in a mini muffin pan until the pastry is golden and puffy. The warm brie will be creamy and gooey inside.

These little treats mix sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Your guests will love the combo of flaky pastry, rich cheese, and tangy cranberries.

3. Maple Glazed Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

These tasty bites are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering. You’ll need Brussels sprouts, bacon, maple syrup, and a few seasonings.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.

Wrap each Brussels sprout in a strip of bacon. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix maple syrup with a bit of balsamic vinegar and black pepper. Brush this glaze over the wrapped sprouts.

Bake for about 30 minutes, turning halfway through. The bacon should be crisp and the sprouts tender when done.

Serve these warm as a delicious appetizer. Your guests will love the mix of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.

4. Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips

Pumpkin hummus is a tasty fall twist on a classic appetizer. It’s easy to make and takes about 10 minutes.

To make pumpkin hummus, blend chickpeas, pumpkin puree, tahini, garlic, and spices like cumin and smoked paprika. Add lemon juice for brightness.

Serve your pumpkin hummus with homemade pita chips. Cut pita bread into triangles, brush with olive oil, and bake until crispy.

This appetizer is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. The orange color and warm spices fit the autumn theme. Your guests will love this creamy, flavorful dip with crunchy chips.

5. Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty and easy appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. You only need two main ingredients: asparagus spears and prosciutto slices.

Preheat your oven to 425°F.

Cut each prosciutto slice into long strips. Wrap a strip around each asparagus spear.

Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with foil. Roast for about 5-6 minutes, turning once halfway through.

The result is crispy prosciutto and tender asparagus. Let them cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This appetizer looks fancy but takes little effort to prepare.

6. Deviled Eggs with Smoked Salmon

Deviled eggs with smoked salmon are a tasty twist on a classic appetizer. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.

Start by hard-boiling eggs and cutting them in half. Mix the yolks with cream cheese, mayonnaise, and a bit of mustard.

Add chopped smoked salmon to the mixture for a rich, savory flavor. Stir in some fresh dill and chives for extra taste.

Pipe or spoon the filling into the egg white halves. Top each with a small piece of smoked salmon and a sprinkle of paprika.

These eggs can be made ahead of time, saving you work on Thanksgiving day. They’re sure to impress your guests with their elegant look and delicious flavor.

7. Butternut Squash Tarts

Butternut squash tarts make a tasty appetizer for your Thanksgiving feast. These little bites combine sweet squash with savory flavors.

Start by roasting cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. While it cooks, prepare mini tart shells using puff pastry.

Fill the shells with a mix of ricotta cheese and caramelized onions. Top with the roasted squash cubes. Bake until the pastry is golden and crisp.

These tarts look fancy but are simple to make. The mix of textures and flavors will impress your guests. Serve them warm as a delicious start to your meal.

8. Sweet Potato Crostini with Goat Cheese

Sweet potato crostini with goat cheese is a tasty Thanksgiving appetizer.

You start by slicing sweet potatoes into thin rounds and roasting them until golden.

Next, spread creamy goat cheese on the sweet potato rounds. Top with dried cranberries and candied pecans for extra flavor and crunch.

Finish with a drizzle of honey for sweetness. This appetizer combines savory and sweet elements that your guests will love.

It’s easy to make ahead of time. Just assemble right before serving so the crostini stays crisp. Your guests will appreciate this colorful and flavorful bite-sized treat.

9. Garlic Parmesan Knots

Garlic Parmesan Knots make a tasty appetizer for your Thanksgiving feast. You can make them easily using refrigerated biscuit dough.

Cut each biscuit in half and roll into ropes. Tie each rope into a knot shape.

Brush the knots with melted butter mixed with garlic and herbs. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.

These soft, fluffy knots are packed with garlicky, cheesy flavor. Serve them warm as a starter or side dish. Your guests will love these savory bites.

10. Pecan and Blue Cheese Endive Boats

These tasty bites are perfect for Thanksgiving appetizers. You’ll love the mix of flavors and textures.

Start with crisp endive leaves as your base. Fill them with crumbled blue cheese and chopped pecans.

Add a touch of sweetness with sliced pears or dried cranberries. A drizzle of honey balances the tangy blue cheese.

These boats are easy to make ahead of time. Just assemble them right before your guests arrive. They’ll be impressed by the elegant presentation and delicious taste.

11. Roasted Beet and Walnut Salad

Roasted beet and walnut salad is a tasty Thanksgiving appetizer. You’ll love the mix of flavors and textures.

Start by roasting beets until they’re tender. Let them cool, then cut into wedges.

Toss the beets with mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts. The creamy cheese and crunchy nuts complement the sweet beets perfectly.

For the dressing, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad and gently toss.

This colorful salad is sure to brighten your holiday table. It’s easy to make and full of fall flavors your guests will enjoy.

12. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip is a classic appetizer for Thanksgiving. You can make it easily with fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a mix of cheeses.

Start by wilting fresh spinach in a skillet. This gives better flavor than frozen spinach.

Mix the cooked spinach with cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for a creamy base. Add grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese for extra cheesy goodness.

Stir in chopped artichoke hearts and minced garlic for flavor.

Bake the dip in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly. Serve with crackers, bread, or veggie sticks for dipping. Your guests will love this warm, creamy appetizer.

13. Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites

Mini chicken and waffle bites make a tasty Thanksgiving appetizer. You can whip these up quickly using frozen mini waffles and chicken nuggets.

Toast the waffles until golden brown. Top each waffle with a chicken nugget. Drizzle with hot honey for extra flavor.

To make hot honey, mix honey with a dash of cayenne pepper and heat gently. The sweet and spicy combo works well with the savory chicken.

These bite-sized treats are perfect for passing around at parties. Your guests can easily grab one or two as they mingle before the main meal.

14. Cranberry Salsa with Cream Cheese

Cranberry salsa with cream cheese is a tasty appetizer for Thanksgiving. It mixes sweet and tangy flavors with a creamy base.

To make it, blend fresh cranberries with sugar, jalapeños, green onions, and cilantro. Spread cream cheese on a plate and top with the cranberry mix.

Serve this dish with crackers or chips for dipping. You can make the salsa up to a week ahead and keep it in the fridge.

This appetizer looks festive with its bright red color. It’s easy to prepare and will please your guests’ taste buds.

15. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Bacon-wrapped dates are a tasty Thanksgiving appetizer. You’ll love the mix of sweet and salty flavors.

To make them, start with pitted dates. Stuff each date with a small piece of blue cheese or an almond.

Wrap a strip of bacon around each stuffed date. Secure it with a toothpick.

Bake the wrapped dates in a 400°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking.

The bacon should be crispy and the dates warm when done. Serve these treats hot for the best taste.

16. Pumpkin Spiced Nuts

Pumpkin spiced nuts are a tasty and easy Thanksgiving appetizer. You can make them with your favorite nuts like almonds, pecans, or cashews.

To make these, you’ll need brown sugar, water, pumpkin pie spice, and nuts. Mix the sugar, water, and spice in a pan. Add the nuts and coat them well.

Spread the coated nuts on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 20 minutes, flipping once. Let them cool for 10 minutes, stirring a few times to prevent sticking.

These sweet and spicy nuts are perfect for snacking. You can serve them in small bowls or add them to your appetizer platter. They’re sure to be a hit with your guests.

Pairing Perfect Wines and Beverages

The right drinks can take your Thanksgiving appetizers to the next level. Here are some top picks for wines and cocktails to serve with your starters.

Seasonal Wine Selections

Sparkling wines make great choices for Thanksgiving appetizers. Try a crisp Prosecco or Moscato d’Asti to kick off the meal. Their light, bubbly nature pairs well with cheese plates and salads.

For white wines, look for options with bright acidity. A lightly oaked Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can complement rich appetizers. Their citrus notes balance out heavy flavors.

Red wine fans should consider a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. These lighter reds won’t overpower delicate starters. They also pair nicely with turkey if guests continue sipping into the main course.

Crafting The Perfect Holiday Cocktail

Festive cocktails add a special touch to your Thanksgiving spread.

Try a cranberry martini for a seasonal twist on a classic. Mix vodka, cranberry juice, and a splash of lime for a tart and refreshing drink.

Apple cider mimosas offer a fun take on the brunch favorite.

Combine equal parts apple cider and sparkling wine in a champagne flute. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice for extra flair.

For a warming option, serve spiced mulled wine.

Simmer red wine with cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest. The aromatic drink will fill your home with cozy holiday scents.

Incorporating Seasonal Ingredients

Seasonal ingredients add a special touch to Thanksgiving appetizers. They bring freshness and flavor that complement traditional dishes.

Try these ideas to make your appetizers stand out.

Using Fresh and Local Produce

Fresh, local produce makes appetizers taste better.

Look for squash, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes at farmers’ markets. These veggies are perfect for roasting and using in dips or spreads.

Try making sweet potato rounds topped with goat cheese and cranberries.

Roast thin slices of sweet potato until crispy. Add a dollop of goat cheese and a few dried cranberries on top.

Apples are another great fall ingredient.

Use them in a savory apple and onion tart. Cut puff pastry into small squares and top with thinly sliced apples and onions. Bake until golden and serve warm.

Exploring Unique Flavor Combinations

Mix unexpected flavors to create memorable appetizers.

Pair sweet and savory tastes for a fun twist on classic recipes.

Try butternut squash and sage crostini.

Roast cubed butternut squash with olive oil and sage.

Spread ricotta on toasted baguette slices and top with the squash mixture.

Make cranberry and brie bites for a tasty snack.

Wrap brie and cranberry sauce in puff pastry.

Bake until golden and gooey.

For a spicy kick, try jalapeño and pumpkin poppers.

Stuff jalapeños with a mix of cream cheese, canned pumpkin, and spices.

Bake until bubbly and serve hot.