31 Appetizers Your Game Day Spread Might Be Missing

Game day isn’t just about the action on the screen. It’s about the food on the table. If your usual spread feels a little predictable, it might be time to switch things up with a few unexpected appetizers. These crowd-pleasers are easy to make, packed with flavor, and just what your lineup has been missing.

Person holding an unbelievably good lumpia shanghai spring roll with more spring rolls and dipping sauce in the background. — Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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BLT Dip

A hand holding a loaded potato skin topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a slice of tomato. — BLT Dip. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This creamy, bacon-loaded dip brings all the flavors of a classic BLT into a bowl, making it an easy addition to your game day lineup. It’s simple to prepare and pairs well with chips, crackers, or toasted bread. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a smooth base makes it a crowd-pleaser. You’ll want to make extra because it disappears fast at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: BLT Dip

Beer Cheese

A pretzel bite is being dipped into a bowl of cheese sauce. — Beer Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

A warm, cheesy dip with just the right amount of richness, beer cheese is perfect for pretzels, chips, or fresh veggies. It comes together quickly, making it a low-effort but high-impact snack. The bold flavor and creamy texture make it a strong contender for your game day spread. Serve it hot and watch it become the first thing to go.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

Air Fryer Chicken Wings on white plate. — Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These wings go from frozen to crispy in no time, making them a game day lifesaver when you need something fast. The air fryer gives them a crisp texture without the hassle of deep frying. Toss them in your favorite sauce or seasonings for a customizable snack. They’re easy to make in batches, so you won’t run out too quickly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

Chicken Lollipops

A close-up of a hand holding a crispy breaded chicken drumstick, with more drumsticks on a white plate in the background. — Chicken Lollipops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These drumettes are trimmed for easy handling and pack big flavor in every bite. They crisp up beautifully and are ideal for dipping into sauces or enjoying as they are. Their unique presentation makes them stand out among traditional wing options. These belong on your snack table if you need something fun and easy to eat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

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.

Juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon is always a good idea for game day. These bite-sized snacks come together quickly and can be prepped ahead of time. The balance of smoky bacon and tender chicken makes them a reliable crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for something hearty that won’t last long on the table, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background. — Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy, cheesy potatoes are a great way to add something hearty to your game day spread. The air fryer gives them the perfect golden texture while the cheese melts into a gooey topping. They require minimal prep and pair well with a variety of dips. If you need a snack that’s easy to make and even easier to eat, this one fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

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

Light, crunchy, and easy to dip, these shrimp are a must-have for any snack spread. The panko coating gives them the perfect crunch, and they cook in minutes. They hold up well with a variety of sauces, making them a flexible option. If you’re looking to add seafood to the lineup, this is an easy choice.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

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.

The combination of smoky bacon and tender shrimp makes these an easy win for any party. Cooking them in the air fryer or oven means less mess but all the flavor. They come together fast and offer a satisfying mix of textures. If you need a bite-sized snack that feels a little special, these are a great pick.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

Buffalo Chicken Dip

This creamy, spicy dip is a game day staple that never disappoints. It has all the bold flavors of buffalo wings without the hassle of frying. Serve it with chips, celery, or crackers for an easy-to-eat snack. If you want a dip that’ll be scraped clean before halftime, this is the one to make.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Bang Bang Shrimp

Fried shrimp on a plate next to a bowl of sauce. — Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy shrimp are coated in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that keeps everyone reaching for more. They come together quickly and have just the right amount of crunch and flavor. Whether served as a standalone snack or in lettuce wraps, they fit right into any game day lineup. Expect them to disappear fast, so making extra is a smart move.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These shrimp skewers are easy to prepare and even easier to eat, making them a strong addition to your snack table. The grill gives them a smoky char that pairs well with dipping sauces or a squeeze of fresh citrus. They cook fast, so they’re a great last-minute option when you need something extra. Light yet flavorful, they’re a great contrast to heavier game day snacks.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

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

These cheesy, crispy jalapeño poppers bring the perfect balance of heat and crunch to your spread. The air fryer makes them golden and crisp without the need for deep frying. They’re a great finger food that doesn’t require utensils, making them easy to grab between plays. If you need a snack with a little kick, these won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

These onion rings take things up a notch with a layer of crispy bacon wrapped around each one. They’re easy to make and come out perfectly crisp, making them a standout option for game day. The combination of smoky, salty bacon and sweet onion is hard to beat. If you want to switch things up from traditional fried snacks, these are a great way to do it.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Crab Melt

These open-faced bites combine creamy crab filling with melty cheese for a snack that’s easy to put together. They’re baked until golden and bubbly, making them a warm option in a sea of cold dips and finger foods. The balance of textures and flavors makes them a great pick for seafood lovers. If you need something just a little different, these are worth adding to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

Zucchini Bruschetta

These small bites swap out bread for zucchini slices, making them a lighter option for game day. The toppings bring a fresh burst of flavor, and they come together with minimal effort. They hold up well on a serving tray, so they’re great for snacking throughout the game. If you’re looking for something that won’t feel too heavy, these fit the bill.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

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

The combination of sweet pineapple and crispy bacon makes these a must-have for any appetizer spread. The air fryer gives them a caramelized finish without much effort. They’re bite-sized and easy to eat, making them a great pick for game day snacking. If you need something with a mix of sweet and savory, these are a strong contender.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

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.

These mini sandwiches pack big flavor in a small package, making them a great game day option. They’re easy to assemble in advance and bake to perfection in just minutes. The soft rolls and melty fillings make them a fan-favorite snack. If you want something hearty without being too filling, these are a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

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.

Crispy, buttery, and packed with garlic flavor, this bread is a simple but essential addition to any game day table. The air fryer makes it golden and crunchy in just minutes. It pairs well with dips, spreads, or even as a side for other appetizers. If you need a quick and easy snack that everyone will love, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread

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.

These fresh, light bites offer a cool contrast to heavier game day snacks. The crisp cucumber pairs perfectly with seasoned shrimp, making them a refreshing option. They require minimal prep and can be assembled ahead of time. If you need something easy to grab and eat, these make a great addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket. — Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy, flavorful bites are a great alternative to traditional game day meats. The air fryer gives them a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender. They’re rich, savory, and perfect for dipping into sauces. If you’re looking for something bold and snackable, these won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

These bite-sized salmon pieces are wrapped in crispy bacon for a snack that feels a little more upscale but is still easy to make. They cook quickly and bring a great mix of flavors to the table. The bacon keeps the salmon moist while adding a smoky finish. If you want to add something a little unexpected to your spread, these are a strong option.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

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 quesadillas are packed with seasoned beef and melty cheese, making them a warm, satisfying option for game day. They’re easy to make in batches and can be cut into small wedges for easy snacking. Serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for extra flavor. If you want something hearty but simple, these are a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Jalapeño Popper Dip

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

This creamy dip takes everything you love about jalapeño poppers and turns it into a scoopable snack. It’s baked until bubbly and pairs well with chips, crackers, or bread. The mix of heat and creaminess makes it a favorite at any gathering. If you need a dip that’ll be gone before the game is over, this one won’t let you down.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Dip

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.

These bite-sized sausages are wrapped in crispy bacon for a simple but flavorful snack. They’re easy to make in large batches and always disappear fast. The combination of smoky, salty, and slightly sweet flavors makes them hard to resist. If you’re looking for a no-fuss appetizer that people always love, these are a great option.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Turkey Roll Ups

These easy, no-cook snacks are perfect for adding a little variety to your spread. They’re quick to prepare and hold up well throughout the game. The balance of flavors and textures makes them a great grab-and-go option. If you want something light but flavorful, these are a good addition.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

Crab Rangoon Dip

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

This warm, creamy dip takes the flavors of classic crab rangoons and turns them into a shareable dish. It’s baked until golden and served with chips or crackers for easy dipping. The mix of crab, cream cheese, and seasonings makes it a strong contender for any party. If you’re looking for a dip that stands out, this one fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

These crispy chicken tenders cook up quickly in the air fryer, making them a great choice when you need something easy. They have a crunchy coating and juicy inside, making them perfect for dipping. Whether paired with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce, they fit right into any game day lineup. If you need a reliable snack that everyone will enjoy, these are a must.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Chicken Nuggets

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

These bite-sized pieces of crispy chicken are a game day essential. They’re easy to make and pair well with any dipping sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser. Whether serving kids or adults, they disappear fast. If you need a no-fail appetizer that works for everyone, these are a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

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

These crunchy pasta chips are a fun twist on traditional game day snacks. They crisp up perfectly in the air fryer and are great for dipping into marinara, cheese sauce, or hummus. They’re easy to make in batches and hold up well throughout the game. If you want to add something a little unexpected to your spread, these are worth trying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crispy Filipino spring rolls are packed with seasoned filling and air-fried until golden brown. They’re a great handheld snack that’s easy to serve and eat. The crunchy texture and savory flavors make them a great addition to any game day table. If you’re looking for something different from the usual lineup, these bring a lot to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Close-up of a hand holding a seasoned chicken wing garnished with fresh herbs, with more pieces on a plate in the background. — Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These wings are coated in a tangy lemon pepper seasoning that makes them stand out from traditional buffalo wings. They’re easy to cook and come out crispy while staying juicy inside. Whether baked or air-fried, they’re a great option for wing lovers who want something a little different. If you’re looking for a bold yet simple flavor, these won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings