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    Home / Roundups

    21 Simple Appetizers That Wow Every Time

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

    Want to level up your entertaining effortlessly? Get ready to impress your guests with ease with our collection of Simple Appetizers That Wow Every Time! Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or a formal dinner party, these appetizers are guaranteed to steal the show. From savory bites to irresistible finger foods, these recipes offer a perfect balance of flavor and simplicity, ensuring that your guests will be coming back for more.

    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.

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    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.

    Get the crispy goodness of Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp, a delightful choice for simple appetizers that leave a lasting impression. With their golden brown coating and succulent shrimp inside, they offer a satisfying crunch with every bite. Quick and easy to make, they're perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a snack. Whether served with a dipping sauce or as part of a seafood platter, these shrimp are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Prepare a batch and watch them disappear before your eyes—they're that good!
    Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

    Crab Rangoon Dip

    Close-up of a cheesy baked dip topped with chopped green onions, with a hand dipping a piece of toasted bread into it, in a black skillet.
    Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Dig into the creamy deliciousness of Crab Rangoon Dip, a decadent choice for simple appetizers that never disappoint. Made with creamy cheese and savory crab meat, it's a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether served with crackers, bread, or veggies, this dip is sure to be the star of any party spread. Quick and easy to prepare, it's perfect for last-minute gatherings or planned events. Whip up a batch of this irresistible dip and watch it disappear—it's that good!
    Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon 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.

    Enjoy the cheesy goodness of Beef Quesadillas, a classic favorite for simple appetizers that always impress. Packed with seasoned beef, peppers, and onions, they're bursting with flavor in every bite. Quick and easy to make, they're perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these quesadillas are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Whip up a batch and watch them disappear before your eyes—they're that delicious!
    Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

    Air Fryer Garlic Bread

    A close-up of a hand holding a slice of garlic bread topped with melted cheese and herbs.
    Air Fryer Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Savor the garlic-infused goodness of Air Fryer Garlic Bread, a delightful addition to simple appetizers that are sure to wow your guests. With its crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior, it's the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Quick and easy to make, it's ready in minutes, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings or weeknight dinners. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone appetizer, this garlic bread is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it's healthier than traditional garlic bread, making it a guilt-free indulgence you'll love.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread

    Air Fryer Lumpia

    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.

    Try our Air Fryer Lumpia, a flavorful choice for simple appetizers that never fail to impress. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, these Filipino spring rolls are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they're perfect for parties or as a snack. Whether served with a dipping sauce or on their own, these lumpia are guaranteed to disappear fast. Prepare a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of these bite-sized delights—they're perfect for sharing with friends and family.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

    Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

    A person holds a seasoned, air-fried chicken wing garnished with parsley.
    Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Enjoy the convenience and flavor of Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen), a hassle-free option for simple appetizers that are always a hit. With their crispy skin and juicy meat, they're finger-licking good and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Quick and easy to cook straight from the freezer, they're ideal for game days or movie nights. Whether served with a classic buffalo sauce or your favorite dip, these chicken wings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whip up a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of these irresistible appetizers—it's that simple!
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

    Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer

    A bowl of sliced dried strawberries on a table, with fresh whole strawberries scattered around it.
    Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Get the sweet goodness of Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer, a delightful option for simple appetizers that will impress your guests. With their intense flavor and chewy texture, they're a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they're perfect for enjoying as a snack or adding to cereals, yogurt, or desserts. Whether served on their own or as part of a charcuterie board, these dehydrated strawberries are sure to be a hit with everyone. Prepare a batch and enjoy the natural sweetness of these delicious treats.
    Get the Recipe: Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer

    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.

    Get the tangy and savory goodness of Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings, a stellar choice for simple appetizers that captivate taste buds. With their crispy exterior and juicy meat, they offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Quick to prepare and bursting with zesty seasoning, they are perfect for gatherings or game nights. Whether served with a cooling dip or enjoyed on their own, these chicken wings are sure to be a hit. Prepare a batch and watch them disappear—they're irresistibly delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

    Bang Bang Shrimp

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

    Dig into the crispy deliciousness of Bang Bang Shrimp, a crowd-pleasing option for simple appetizers that never fail to impress. With their crunchy coating and tender shrimp inside, they offer a delightful explosion of flavors. Quick and easy to make, they're perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a snack. Whether served with a spicy sauce or a creamy dip, they are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whip up a batch and savor the irresistible taste of these delectable shrimp bites.
    Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

    Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
    Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Savor the smoky goodness of Grilled Shrimp Skewers, an appetizing choice for simple appetizers that are perfect for outdoor gatherings. With their charred exterior and succulent shrimp, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Quick to grill and easy to customize with your favorite marinade, they're a hit with seafood lovers. Whether served as a main course or alongside other grilled dishes, these skewers are sure to elevate any meal. Fire up the grill and enjoy the deliciousness of these flavorful shrimp skewers—it's barbecue perfection.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

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

    Treat yourself to the indulgent flavors of Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings, a decadent option for simple appetizers that are sure to leave a lasting impression. With their crispy bacon exterior and sweet onion center, they offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Quick to prepare and bursting with savory goodness, they're perfect for parties or game nights. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone appetizer, these bacon-wrapped onion rings are guaranteed to be a hit. Whip up a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of this irresistible finger food.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

    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.

    Upgrade your snacks with Air Fryer Pasta Chips, a crunchy and addictive option for simple appetizers that are perfect for sharing. With their crispy texture and savory seasoning, they offer a satisfying crunch in every bite. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they're a healthier alternative to store-bought chips. Whether served with a creamy dip or enjoyed on their own, these pasta chips are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Prepare a batch and watch them disappear—they're irresistibly delicious and oh-so-addictive.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

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

    Indulge in the sweet and savory goodness of Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer, a delightful option for simple appetizers that are guaranteed to please. With their crispy bacon exterior and juicy pineapple center, they offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they're perfect for parties or game nights. Whether served as a snack or alongside other appetizers, these bacon-wrapped pineapple bites are sure to be a hit. Whip up a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of this irresistible finger food.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

    Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    A close-up of seasoned potato wedges served with a side of dipping sauce.
    Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Savor the crispy perfection of Air Fryer Potato Wedges, a classic favorite for simple appetizers that are always a hit. With their golden exterior and fluffy interior, they offer a delightful crunch in every bite. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they're healthier than traditional fried potatoes. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone appetizer, these potato wedges are sure to please a crowd. Whip up a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of this timeless snack. It's comfort food at its finest.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    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.

    Treat your taste buds to the smoky goodness of Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies, a savory option for simple appetizers that are perfect for any occasion. With their crispy bacon exterior and juicy sausage inside, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Quick and easy to prepare, they're ideal for parties or game days. Whether served as a snack or alongside other appetizers, these bacon-wrapped little smokies are sure to be a hit. Prepare a batch and watch them disappear—they're irresistibly delicious and oh-so-addictive.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

    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.

    Enjoy the delectable combination of savory bacon and succulent shrimp with these Bacon Wrapped Shrimp—an enticing choice for simple appetizers that are guaranteed to impress. With their crispy bacon exterior and juicy shrimp inside, they offer a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Quick and easy to prepare, they're perfect for entertaining guests or as a tasty snack. Whether cooked in the air fryer or oven, these bacon-wrapped shrimp are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whip up a batch and savor the irresistible taste of this crowd-pleasing appetizer.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

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

    Get the rich and smoky flavors of Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites, a delightful option for simple appetizers that are sure to satisfy. With their crispy bacon exterior and tender salmon center, they offer a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Quick to prepare and bursting with savory goodness, they're perfect for parties or gatherings. Whether served as a party appetizer or a flavorful snack, these bacon-wrapped salmon bites are guaranteed to be a hit. Prepare a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of this irresistible finger food—it's a crowd favorite for a reason.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

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

    Dig into the crispy deliciousness of Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali), a mouthwatering option for simple appetizers that are sure to please. With their crispy pork belly exterior and tender meat inside, they offer a burst of savory goodness in every bite. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they're perfect for parties or game nights. Whether served as a snack or alongside other appetizers, these pork belly bites are guaranteed to be a hit. Whip up a batch and enjoy the irresistible taste of this classic Filipino dish—it's comfort food at its finest.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

    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.

    Treat your taste buds to the creamy and spicy flavors of Jalapeño Popper Dip, a crowd-pleasing option for simple appetizers that are perfect for any gathering. With its cheesy base and fiery jalapeño kick, it offers a delightful explosion of flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, it's ideal for parties or game days. Whether served with chips, crackers, or veggies, this dip is sure to be a hit. Prepare a batch and watch it disappear—it's that irresistible!
    Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Dip

    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.

    Delight your guests with Chicken Lollipops, a fun and flavorful option for simple appetizers that are guaranteed to impress. With their juicy chicken meat and crispy coating, they offer a delightful contrast of textures. Quick and easy to make, they're perfect for parties or family dinners. Whether served as a snack or a main course, these chicken lollipops are sure to be a hit with everyone. Whip up a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of this playful finger food—it's fun to eat and bursting with flavor!
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

    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.

    Savor the tropical flavors of Hawaiian Roll Sliders, a delightful choice for simple appetizers that are perfect for any occasion. With their sweet Hawaiian rolls and savory filling, they offer a burst of indulgence in every bite. Quick and easy to assemble, they're ideal for parties or picnics. Whether served as a snack or a meal, these sliders are sure to be a hit with everyone. Prepare a batch and enjoy the deliciousness of these irresistible mini sandwiches—it's like a taste of paradise in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders

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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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