31 Holiday Appetizers to Kick Off the Season Right

Holiday appetizers set the stage for festive gatherings and give everyone a reason to mingle before the main course arrives. These quick-to-please bites are perfect for breaking the ice and keeping guests entertained while the holiday magic unfolds. From cozy evenings at home to lively celebrations, appetizers bring an extra touch of fun to the table. They’re also your best chance to showcase creativity without hours in the kitchen. Get ready to make the season even more memorable with flavors that are as festive as the occasion.

Slices of zucchini topped with diced tomatoes, basil, grated cheese, and herbs are arranged on a white surface. These recipes from around the world are anything but boring. — Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes

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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 the ultimate mix of ham, cheese, and buttery rolls that guests can’t resist. A go-to for holiday appetizers, they’re simple, delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Warm and melty, they’re gone in no time!
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip brings bold, spicy flavor to any spread, making it an instant hit for holiday appetizers. This creamy and cheesy mix has just the right kick to keep everyone dipping. Perfect for casual gatherings or festive feasts alike!
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Beef Quesadillas

Stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and meat, garnished with herbs, served with dips on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Beef Quesadillas bring simple, comforting flavors to your appetizer lineup with seasoned beef and gooey cheese. Great for cutting prep time, they fit perfectly into your holiday appetizers list. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Crab Rangoon Dip

A hand scooping a creamy dip with melted cheese and green onions, served with bread in a cast-iron skillet. — Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab Rangoon Dip transforms a classic favorite into a creamy, shareable dish. A standout among holiday appetizers, it’s savory, rich, and perfect with crackers or veggies. Everyone will love dipping into this crowd-pleaser!
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

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.

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese deliver creamy centers with crispy edges that are hard to resist. A savory addition to any holiday appetizer spread, they’re both indulgent and easy to prepare. Each cheesy bite is better than the last!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Turkey Roll Ups

Turkey Roll Ups bring together fresh flavors in an easy-to-grab format perfect for holiday appetizers. They’re quick to assemble and pack a punch of flavor in every bite. Your guests will appreciate the simplicity and taste!
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites are the ultimate savory snack, combining smoky bacon with tender salmon. Perfect for adding variety to your holiday appetizers, they’re easy to grab and deliciously indulgent. Great for impressing guests!
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Salmon Bites

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 combines smoky and sweet flavors in bite-sized perfection. Ideal for jazzing up holiday appetizers, these cook quickly and satisfy every palate. Your guests will savor the perfect balance in every bite!
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Jalapeño Popper Dip

A close-up of a hand dipping a tortilla chip into a skillet of melted, cheesy jalapeño dip, with a golden crust and visible green jalapeño slices. — Jalapeño Popper Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Jalapeño Popper Dip packs creamy, spicy goodness that guarantees it’ll be the talk of the table. Perfect for cozy gatherings, it shines as one of the top holiday appetizers. Serve with chips or bread for endless dipping fun.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Dip

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

A plate of breaded shrimp garnished with parsley, served with lemon wedges and dipping sauce. — Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp are a seafood lover's dream, with a golden, crunchy coating and tender interior. This easy-to-share dish is an excellent choice for serving as holiday appetizers. Pair them with your favorite dip for a complete snack.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Chicken Lollipops

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

Chicken Lollipops are an eye-catching treat that deliver crispy goodness in every bite. These make for an effortlessly fun choice when you’re serving holiday appetizers. Pair them with a favorite dipping sauce for even more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia offers a sweet, crispy treat with caramelized bananas wrapped in golden perfection. These bring a unique dessert-like vibe to your holiday appetizers. Everyone will love the mix of texture and flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

A person dips a crispy pasta chip into a bowl of marinara, with more chips visible in the background. — Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Pasta Chips add crispy, golden crunch to your snack table, making them an unexpected favorite. Great as holiday appetizers, they’re quick to prepare and pair well with dips. Every bite is light, crisp, and flavorful!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

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 deliver rich, creamy brie paired with tart cranberry in a flaky shell. A star among holiday appetizers, they’re festive and perfectly portioned. Guests will reach for seconds every time!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

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.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings bring zesty flavor with just the right crunch to your appetizer table. They’re crowd-friendly and perfect for holiday appetizers when you want bold flavors. Serve them up hot for maximum enjoyment!
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Zucchini Bruschetta

Zucchini Bruschetta adds a fresh twist to traditional bites with its vibrant flavors. A fun addition to holiday appetizers, it’s the perfect blend of light and flavorful ingredients. Your guests will love the unexpected veggie base!
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Caramelized Onion Tartlets with Brie

Mini puff pastry tarts topped with caramelized onions and garnished with herbs, arranged on a wooden board and a white surface. — Caramelized Onion Tartlets with Brie. Photo credit: The Savory Cipolla.

These flaky Caramelized Onion Tartlets with Brie pair sweet onions and creamy cheese in a perfectly bite-sized package. As holiday appetizers, they’re a brilliant choice for making ahead and serving without stress. Their crispy phyllo base keeps every bite light yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion Tartlets with Brie

Brie Cranberry Bites

Mini baked apples topped with cranberry sauce, pecans, and rosemary, accompanied by chunks of cheese, arranged on a decorative plate. — Brie Cranberry Bites. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Bite-sized and packed with flavor, Brie Cranberry Bites bring sweet cranberry sauce and gooey brie together in buttery puff pastry. They’re exactly what holiday appetizers should be—easy, delicious, and festive. Serve these warm and watch them vanish in no time!
Get the Recipe: Brie Cranberry Bites

Mushroom Crostini

Toasted bread slices topped with sautéed mushrooms, herbs, and a dark sauce on a wooden surface with a jar of Maille mustard nearby. — Mushroom Crostini. Photo credit: Happy Kitchen.

These savory Mushroom Crostini are a hit for anyone seeking festive holiday appetizers. With perfectly toasted bread and earthy, herby mushrooms, they look as impressive as they taste. Whether vegan or not, your guests will love these!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Crostini

Mediterranean Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board with assorted meats, cheeses, fruits, olives, sliced bread, and dips. A carton of cold pressed juice is on the side. — Mediterranean Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Heavenly Spiced.

Mediterranean Charcuterie Board is a colorful and flavorful way to impress your guests. Packed with dips, meats, and cheeses, it’s the centerpiece of your holiday appetizers. Perfect for sharing, it’s a spread everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Charcuterie Board

Beer Cream Cheese Pretzel Dip

A bowl with pretzels, potato chips, and creamy dip topped with shredded cheese, placed on a gray surface with a striped cloth and empty plates nearby. — Beer Cream Cheese Pretzel Dip. Photo credit: Baked Abundance.

Creamy, cheesy, and made for dipping, Beer Cream Cheese Pretzel Dip pairs perfectly with crunchy pretzels or chips. It’s the kind of comfort food holiday appetizers thrive on, bringing a cozy vibe to the table. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for gatherings big or small.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cream Cheese Pretzel Dip

Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Baked casserole with melted cheese and visible red berries, garnished with a rosemary sprig and additional berries, in a white dish on a red cloth. — Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip. Photo credit: The Fresh Cooky.

Bursting with festive flavors, Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip brings cranberry and cream cheese together in the best way. It’s one of those holiday appetizers that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Serve it warm to impress with every cheesy, tart scoop.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Zesty Lemony Whipped Feta Dip

A hand dips a pita chip into a bowl of whipped feta dip garnished with herbs and chili flakes. A lemon half and pita chips are in the background. — Zesty Lemony Whipped Feta Dip. Photo credit: Three Kids, Three Cats, and a Husband.

This creamy, tangy Zesty Lemony Whipped Feta Dip adds a vibrant kick to any spread. It’s a crowd-pleaser that screams holiday appetizers in every bite. Perfectly balanced with garlic and olive oil, it brings a refreshing twist to your festive table.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Lemony Whipped Feta Dip

Two-Bite Smoked Salmon Quinoa Cakes

Six quinoa cakes topped with cream cheese and smoked salmon, served on a white plate with blue floral patterns. — Two-Bite Smoked Salmon Quinoa Cakes. Photo credit: Two Sisters Mix It Up.

Packed with flavor, Two-Bite Smoked Salmon Quinoa Cakes deliver crispy edges and creamy centers. They stand out among holiday appetizers, combining rich salmon and fresh herbs with a hint of quinoa crunch. These are a surefire way to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Two-Bite Smoked Salmon Quinoa Cakes

Bruschetta with Mozzarella

Bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves on toasted bread slices. — Bruschetta with Mozzarella. Photo credit: Borrowed Bites.

Fresh and colorful, Bruschetta with Mozzarella combines juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella on crispy baguette slices. As a go-to for holiday appetizers, it’s quick to prepare and always gets people talking. Every bite feels like a celebration of simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Bruschetta with Mozzarella

Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab

A plate of stuffed mushrooms topped with breadcrumbs, garnished with herbs, with a small bowl of lemon wedges in the center. — Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab. Photo credit: Heavenly Spiced.

Elegant yet approachable, Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab are the perfect holiday appetizers to add a touch of luxury to your menu. Packed with a blend of cream cheese, herbs, and crabmeat, they deliver a rich, buttery bite every time. The golden panko topping is the finishing touch.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab

Caprese Zucchini Cups

Tomato and cheese appetizer bites with basil leaves on a rectangular white plate, drizzled with balsamic glaze. — Caprese Zucchini Cups. Photo credit: LikeHotKeto.

Caprese Zucchini Cups pack bright, fresh Italian flavors into bite-sized portions. A standout addition to holiday appetizers, these can be served warm or chilled. They’re fun, flavorful, and perfect for mingling moments.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Zucchini Cups

Stuffed Mushrooms

A stuffed mushroom on a white plate, garnished with greens and two red berries. — Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Chef Ani.

Stuffed Mushrooms are savory bites that combine earthy mushrooms with a rich, flavorful filling. Perfect for showcasing holiday appetizers, these are easy to eat and look amazing on a platter. Guests will appreciate their hearty simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Hot Honey Brie Bites

Pastries topped with jam and green herbs on a cooling rack over a patterned cloth. — Hot Honey Brie Bites. Photo credit: Borrowed Bites.

Creamy brie wrapped in flaky puff pastry, topped with a drizzle of hot honey, makes Hot Honey Brie Bites irresistibly bold. They’re made for holiday appetizers, delivering the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and buttery goodness. These bites are destined to disappear fast!
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Brie Bites

Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Halved sweet peppers filled with cream cheese, garnished with paprika and chives, on white plates. — Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers. Photo credit: LikeHotKeto.

Bright and bold, Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers bring a sweet and spicy pop to your appetizer game. These are easy-to-handle holiday appetizers stuffed with a creamy, cheesy filling and crispy bacon for extra flavor. Their colorful appearance lights up any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers

Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini

A wooden plate with toasted bread topped with cheese and caramelized onions. A bowl of caramelized onions with a spoon sits nearby. — Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini. Photo credit: The Savory Cipolla.

Smoky, sweet, and savory, Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini are the perfect blend of flavors for holiday appetizers. With creamy brie and crispy crostini as the base, they’re ideal for any festive gathering. The bacon jam adds an unforgettable punch of richness.
Get the Recipe: Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini