30 Appetizers to Save You When Time Isn’t on Your Side

When time is running short and you're in need of a quick appetizer, these ideas have got you covered. Whether you're preparing for a party or just need something simple to munch on, these appetizers are fast, easy, and satisfying. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you'll have something ready in no time that everyone will love.

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped into a small bowl of sauce, placed on a white surface with green herbs. — Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These beef quesadillas are perfect for when you need a quick appetizer that everyone will love. The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese makes them irresistible. They cook up quickly, making them ideal when you’re short on time. Easy to prepare, they’ll be the first to disappear from the table. A great choice when you want something hearty and simple.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer chicken tenders are an excellent choice when you’re pressed for time but still want something crispy and satisfying. These tenders cook fast, without the hassle of frying, and come out perfectly golden every time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can serve up a crowd-pleasing appetizer in no time. They’re a great go-to when you need a quick meal starter. A convenient option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crab Melt

Crab melts are a fantastic last-minute appetizer that combines the richness of crab with the meltiness of cheese. The quick prep and cook time make it an easy choice when you're running short on time. They’re perfect for impressing guests without a lot of effort. The mix of crab and cheese makes for a great balance of flavors in every bite. These are sure to leave everyone asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon-wrapped salmon bites bring together two favorites in one easy-to-make appetizer. The bacon adds a smoky flavor while the salmon remains tender, making these bites a hit. They’re quick to prepare and cook, so you won’t have to spend too much time in the kitchen. Ideal for when you need an appetizer that feels special but doesn’t take forever. A simple yet elegant choice for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Bacon-wrapped onion rings offer a twist on the classic, with the crispy bacon giving a savory kick to each bite. They cook quickly and are a fun appetizer that’s sure to impress. These are a great option when you need something fast but packed with flavor. They’re easy to prepare and even easier to eat. A perfect choice when time is tight but you still want something exciting.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Mango Salsa

A white bowl filled with diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper salsa is surrounded by tortilla chips. — Mango Salsa. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mango salsa adds a fresh and vibrant touch to any appetizer spread. The sweetness of mango paired with a tangy kick makes this salsa a great option when you need something quick and refreshing. It comes together in minutes and works perfectly as a dip or topping. It’s a perfect side for any appetizer, especially when you're in a time crunch. A light and tasty addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Mango Salsa

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Panko shrimp with dipping sauce. — Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy fried panko shrimp are a great choice when you want to whip up an appetizer that’s both quick and crowd-pleasing. The crunchy exterior and tender shrimp inside are always a winning combination. With minimal prep time, these shrimp are ready in a flash. Ideal for any occasion when you need a fast, flavorful bite. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley. — Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer potato wedges are the perfect solution when you need a simple side or appetizer that won’t take much time. These wedges come out crispy and flavorful, with just a fraction of the effort. They cook up in no time and are a great choice when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying bite. Easy to prepare and loved by everyone. A fast, comforting option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Homemade Baked Tortilla Strips

Tortilla strips in wooden bowl. — Homemade Baked Tortilla Strips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Homemade baked tortilla strips are a quick and easy appetizer that will save you when time is tight. With just a few ingredients, you can have crispy, golden chips ready to serve in no time. Perfect for dipping or as a crunchy snack on their own. They’re simple, fast, and sure to be a favorite. A great option when you want something that feels homemade but doesn’t take forever.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Baked Tortilla Strips

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers. — Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer chicken skewers are a fast and flavorful appetizer choice when time is running out. Marinated chicken cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it perfect for a quick bite. These kabobs are easy to prepare, and the air fryer ensures they come out juicy and tender every time. A great choice for a simple, flavorful appetizer that doesn’t keep you in the kitchen for long. Your guests will love them.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Three grilled shrimp atop cucumber slices garnished with herbs on a white plate with a red checkered napkin partially in view. — Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp cucumber bites are a refreshing and light option when you’re short on time. The crisp cucumber pairs perfectly with tender shrimp, making it a balanced and easy-to-make appetizer. They take little effort to prepare and are perfect for when you need something fast but fancy. Quick to assemble, they’ll add a fresh touch to your appetizer spread. A great choice for something simple yet impressive.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Jalapeño Popper Dip

A cast iron skillet filled with a cheesy dip. — Jalapeño Popper Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Jalapeño popper dip is a crowd favorite that’s perfect when you need a last-minute appetizer. With all the flavors of a jalapeño popper in dip form, it’s always a hit. The creamy texture and spicy kick come together in a quick and easy recipe. It’s ready in no time and doesn’t require much prep work. A great option when you want something bold but fast.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Dip

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Pasta chips in a white bowl. — Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer pasta chips offer a fun twist on traditional chips and are a great choice when you’re in a time crunch. They cook up crispy and golden in just minutes, perfect for dipping or snacking. Simple to make and a real crowd-pleaser, these chips are a fun way to switch up your appetizer game. They’re a great option when you want to impress without spending too much time. Crunchy and irresistible in no time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

A bowl of meat and green peppers with a spoon. — Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Garlic butter steak bites are an excellent appetizer when you need something savory and filling in a short amount of time. The steak cooks up quickly with the rich garlic butter, making it a standout dish. These bites are easy to prepare and always seem to impress guests. A hearty, flavorful appetizer that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long. Perfect for when you need to get a crowd-pleaser on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Zucchini Bruschetta

Zucchini bruschetta is a fresh, light appetizer that’s ready in minutes. The zucchini gives it a nice crunch, while the tomato and basil add a burst of flavor. It’s an easy and quick way to make a vibrant appetizer for any gathering. The simple ingredients come together to create a beautiful bite that everyone will enjoy. A great option when you need something light and quick.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

A plate of jalapeño poppers on a table. — Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer jalapeño poppers are a quick and flavorful choice for any appetizer spread. The air fryer crisps up the bacon and melts the cheese perfectly, creating a bite that’s full of flavor. They cook fast, making them ideal for when you’re short on time but still want a bold appetizer. Easy to prepare and loved by many, they’ll be gone before you know it. A spicy, cheesy option for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Crab Rangoon Dip

A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip. — Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab rangoon dip is an easy-to-make appetizer that brings all the flavors of the classic in dip form. Ready in just a few minutes, it’s perfect when time is tight but you still want something flavorful. The creamy, cheesy dip with a hint of crab will be a hit with everyone. It’s simple, fast, and perfect for dipping. A great way to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped in a small bowl of sauce, with a green leaf garnish on the side. — Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon-wrapped shrimp are an easy and impressive appetizer that’s ready in a flash. The air fryer or oven does the work, making these bites crispy and packed with flavor. They come together quickly, so they’re perfect for when you’re on a time crunch. A deliciously simple way to serve shrimp that everyone will love. An ideal option for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dish.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

A bowl of bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages served on a bed of fresh green herbs. — Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon-wrapped little smokies are always a hit when you need a fast appetizer. The bacon crisps up perfectly around the smoky sausage, creating a flavor-packed bite. These are quick to make and easy to serve, making them an ideal choice when you’re short on time. They’re a simple, fun option that’s always a crowd-pleaser. A perfect solution when you need something quick and savory.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Close-up of a pastry topped with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. — Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cranberry and brie puff pastry bites combine the sweetness of cranberry with the creaminess of brie for a perfect bite-sized appetizer. They cook up in no time and are a great choice when you need something elegant yet simple. The flaky puff pastry adds a touch of sophistication without requiring a lot of prep work. These little bites will quickly become a favorite at any gathering. They’re quick, impressive, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers are a fast, easy option when you want a light and flavorful appetizer. The shrimp cook quickly, and the grill gives them a smoky, charred flavor that’s always a hit. They’re simple to prepare and cook, making them a great option when you need something quick. Easy to serve and loved by all, they’re a perfect choice for any occasion. Flavorful and fast, these skewers won’t take up much of your time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Close-up of a garlic bread slice topped with melted cheese and herbs held over a plate. — Air Fryer Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer garlic bread is a quick and easy option for a side or appetizer. The garlic butter gets perfectly crispy, and the bread comes out golden in no time. It’s simple to prepare and a great choice when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful. This classic appetizer is always a favorite and can be made in just a few minutes. It’s the perfect way to kick off any meal without delay.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Three bacon-wrapped pieces of chicken on a white plate with a sprig of parsley and a red and white checkered cloth on the side. — Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon-wrapped chicken bites are a great option when you need an appetizer that’s both quick and flavorful. The chicken stays juicy while the bacon crisps up perfectly around it. These bites cook fast, making them an ideal choice for when you’re pressed for time. They’re easy to prepare and sure to please your guests. A great option when you want something savory and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Turkey Roll Ups

Turkey roll-ups are a quick and easy appetizer that will save you when time is tight. They come together in just minutes, offering a simple, flavorful bite with minimal effort. The combination of turkey and your favorite spreads makes for an easy, no-fuss dish. A great choice when you want something simple but flavorful. These roll-ups are perfect for when you need a fast appetizer that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

Chicken Nuggets

Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background. — Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken nuggets are a classic choice when you need an easy and quick appetizer. They cook up in no time and are always a hit with kids and adults alike. These crispy bites are great for dipping or eating on their own. They’re an easy, go-to option when time is running short. A perfect choice for when you need something everyone will enjoy without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Popcorn Chicken

Popcorn chicken is a fast and fun appetizer that’s perfect for snacking. These crispy chicken bites are easy to make and always go quickly. With minimal prep time, they’re great when you need something to serve at the last minute. A quick, savory option that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a flavorful appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

Hawaiian Roll Sliders

A close-up image of a platter of ham and cheese slider sandwiches sprinkled with poppy seeds and garnished with chopped herbs. — Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Hawaiian roll sliders are an easy and delicious appetizer that comes together quickly. The sweet rolls, paired with your favorite fillings, create a bite-sized treat that everyone will love. These sliders are a great choice for when you need something fast and satisfying. Perfect for busy days when you want to serve something hearty but don’t have a lot of time. Simple, flavorful, and easy to make, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, served on a white plate garnished with parsley. — Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air fryer roasted Roma tomatoes are a great choice when you need a quick and fresh appetizer. The air fryer makes them tender and roasted to perfection in no time. They’re easy to prepare and pack a lot of flavor in a small bite. A great option when you need something simple and flavorful. Ready in just minutes, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate. — Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon-wrapped pineapple is a fast, fun appetizer that’s full of flavor. The combination of sweet pineapple and smoky bacon cooks up quickly in the air fryer. This appetizer is simple to prepare and always a hit with guests. Perfect for when you want something sweet and savory but don’t have much time. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, they’re always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon-wrapped cabbage is an unexpected yet easy appetizer that comes together quickly. The smoky bacon crisps up beautifully while the cabbage stays tender. It’s perfect for when you need something hearty and savory but don’t have a lot of time. These bites are simple to prepare and great for when you want something different. Quick and flavorful, they’re perfect for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage