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    Home / Roundups

    21 Last-Minute Appetizers for When You Forgot to Prep

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Oct 29, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    We've all been there-last-minute gatherings sneak up on us and suddenly, we're in need of quick appetizers that don't require hours of prep. Luckily, I've got a collection of easy and delicious options that can be thrown together in no time ensuring you won't show up empty-handed. Whether you're entertaining friends or hosting family, these last-minute appetizers will impress your guests without adding stress to your day!

    Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Air Fryer Pasta Chips

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

    These pasta chips are a quick and fun snack option that can be whipped up in no time. Simply cook your pasta, season it, and let the air fryer do the work. Perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute gatherings, they provide a satisfying crunch. Serve them warm with your favorite dip for an effortless appetizer. It's a creative twist on traditional chips that will impress without much fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

    Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

    Stack of bacon wrapped onion rings.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Bacon-wrapped onion rings combine two beloved flavors into a quick and savory bite. These rings are simple to prepare and cook up fast in the oven or air fryer. The crunchy exterior and soft onion inside make them an appealing appetizer for any occasion. They can be ready in just a short time, ensuring your guests won't leave hungry. A perfect mix of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Salmon bites wrapped in bacon offer a rich flavor and are quick to prepare. These bites can be baked or air-fried in a matter of minutes, giving you an elegant option for any gathering. The combination of smoky bacon and tender salmon is sure to impress guests. They make a wonderful finger food that's both hearty and refreshing. Ideal for a snack when time is of the essence.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

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

    Crispy fried panko shrimp are a simple and tasty choice for any gathering. They cook quickly and deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. This dish is perfect for dipping and pairs well with various sauces. They can be ready in under 30 minutes, making them a fantastic last-minute option. Serve hot for a delightful appetizing experience.
    Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

    Beef Quesadillas

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

    Beef quesadillas are a fast and hearty appetizer option that can be prepared with minimal effort. Just fill tortillas with seasoned beef and cheese, then cook until crispy. They slice easily for sharing, making them perfect for gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures will please any crowd. Ready in under 30 minutes, they're great when you need a quick meal.
    Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

    Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

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

    These little smokies wrapped in bacon are a classic party favorite that cooks quickly. They can be baked or air-fried and are always a hit with guests. The smoky flavor of the sausages combined with crispy bacon makes for a satisfying bite. They are easy to pick up and enjoy, making them a great choice for gatherings. Perfect for when you need to whip up a quick appetizer.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

    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.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Bacon-wrapped shrimp are a straightforward and elegant appetizer that can be made in no time. Just wrap the shrimp and let your air fryer or oven do the work. This dish combines the sweetness of shrimp with the savory goodness of bacon, making it a treat for the taste buds. They cook quickly and look impressive on any platter. Ideal for those moments when you need to impress without a lot of prep.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

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

    These bacon-wrapped pineapple bites offer a unique and flavorful combination that's easy to prepare. They cook quickly and are perfect for snacking. The sweetness of the pineapple paired with crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering experience. These bites are a fun way to surprise your guests and can be made in a flash. A creative appetizer that requires minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

    Popcorn Chicken

    A bowl of golden brown popcorn chicken on a table.Pin
    Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Popcorn chicken is a fun and easy finger food that's perfect for gatherings. With a quick cooking time, these bite-sized pieces are sure to please everyone. They're simple to prepare and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces for extra flavor. These crispy bites make for a great snack that feels hearty. Ideal for when you need something quick and crowd-friendly.
    Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

    Zucchini Bruschetta

    Baked zucchini bruschetta topped with chopped tomatoes, herbs, and grated cheese on a parchment-lined tray.Pin
    Zucchini Bruschetta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Zucchini bruschetta is a quick and fresh option that can be prepared easily. Topped with tomato and basil, these bites are light yet flavorful. They cook quickly and are perfect for unexpected guests. Each piece is easy to pick up, making them ideal for snacking. A healthy choice that doesn't skimp on taste.
    Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

    Turkey Roll Ups

    A close-up of a hand holding a turkey roll-up slice.Pin
    Turkey Roll Ups. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Turkey roll-ups are a simple and satisfying snack that can be made in no time. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tasty appetizer that's easy to assemble. They're perfect for grabbing on the go and can be served with various dips. These rolls provide a hearty bite without requiring extensive prep. An excellent choice for when you need something quick and filling.
    Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

    Crab Rangoon Dip

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

    This crab rangoon dip is a creamy and rich option that's quick to prepare. With a mix of cream cheese and crab, it offers a comforting flavor that everyone loves. It can be baked quickly, making it perfect for unexpected gatherings. Serve with chips or veggies for dipping. A warm appetizer that will have guests coming back for more.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Bacon-wrapped cabbage is an unexpected yet delightful appetizer that can be made quickly. The savory bacon adds flavor to the tender cabbage, creating a unique bite. Cooked in the air fryer, it becomes crispy and flavorful in a short time. This dish is perfect for sharing and can be a conversation starter at any event. A fun way to enjoy cabbage without the hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

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

    Roasted Roma tomatoes in the air fryer are a simple yet impressive appetizer. They cook quickly and can be seasoned to your liking, making them versatile. These tomatoes offer a burst of flavor and can be served as is or on a slice of bread. They're a light option that's easy to prepare and share. Perfect for when you need something fresh and appealing.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

    Air fryer chicken tenders are a straightforward and popular choice that cooks up quickly. These tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them appealing to everyone. They can be served with various dips for a fun twist. Perfect for a quick appetizer or a casual gathering. An easy-to-make option that guarantees satisfaction.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    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.Pin
    Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Hawaiian roll sliders are a fantastic, easy-to-assemble option that everyone loves. These sliders are quick to prepare and offer a variety of filling options to suit any taste. They are perfect for serving at parties and are easy for guests to grab. Baked until warm, they provide a comforting bite. An effortless way to cater to unexpected guests with minimal hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

    Garlic Butter Steak Bites

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

    Garlic butter steak bites are a quick and flavorful choice that's sure to impress. These tender bites are easy to prepare and cook up quickly, making them a great appetizer. The rich garlic butter adds a comforting flavor that pairs well with many dishes. They can be served with toothpicks for easy snacking. Perfect for when you want something hearty without a lot of effort.
    Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

    Air Fryer Potato Wedges

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

    Air fryer potato wedges are a simple, quick option that can satisfy any appetizer craving. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them enjoyable for everyone. A few seasonings can transform these wedges into a flavorful bite. They can be ready in under 30 minutes, providing a practical choice for gatherings. Great for serving alongside dips or as a side.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    Air Fryer Garlic Bread

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

    Air fryer garlic bread is an easy and tasty addition to any meal or gathering. With minimal prep, you can have warm, toasty bread infused with garlic flavor in no time. It's perfect for sharing and pairs well with a variety of dishes. This quick appetizer offers a comforting and familiar taste. Ideal for when you need to add something special without much effort.
    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.Pin
    Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Shrimp cucumber bites are a refreshing and quick appetizer option. Just top cucumber slices with shrimp and a simple dressing for an easy-to-make snack. They provide a light, crunchy experience that's perfect for warm weather. These bites are easy to pick up and enjoy, making them ideal for gatherings. A practical choice for when you want something fresh and satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

    Crab Melt

    Two plates of crab melt with sliced tomatoes and melted cheese, garnished with lemon slices on a white wooden surface.Pin
    Crab Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    A crab melt is a quick and hearty appetizer that's simple to prepare. Topped with cheese and broiled until bubbly, it offers a rich flavor that pairs well with toasted bread. It can be made in a flash and is perfect for sharing. This warm snack will please seafood lovers and provide a satisfying bite. Great for last-minute gatherings when you want to impress.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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