15 Crowd-Pleasing Turkey Day Appetizers

15 Crowd-Pleasing Turkey Day Appetizers

Stuffed Mushrooms

savory stuffed mushroom appetizer

Stuffed mushrooms are a delightful appetizer that adds a burst of flavor to any Thanksgiving celebration. These bite-sized treats are filled with a savory mixture that combines earthy mushrooms with a variety of delicious ingredients, making them a perfect starter for your Turkey Day feast. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Large white mushrooms 16-20
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Cream cheese 8 ounces
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Italian breadcrumbs 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Red pepper flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems, finely chopping the stems.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic and chopped mushroom stems until soft.
  4. In a bowl, combine the sautéed mixture with cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the filling and place them on a baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Cranberry Brie Bites

cranberry brie appetizer bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are a simple yet elegant appetizer perfect for any Thanksgiving gathering. The combination of creamy Brie cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and flaky pastry creates a delightful little treat that will have your guests coming back for seconds. These bites are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a must-have for your Turkey Day spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Puff pastry sheets 2 sheets
Brie cheese 8 ounces
Cranberry sauce 1 cup
Fresh rosemary, chopped 1 tablespoon
Egg (for egg wash) 1
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into squares, enough to fit into a muffin tin.
  3. Place the pastry squares into the muffin tin and press down to form cups.
  4. Cut the Brie cheese into small pieces and place a piece in each pastry cup.
  5. Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce on top of the Brie and sprinkle with chopped rosemary.
  6. Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of the pastry for a golden finish.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
  8. Allow to cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
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Spinach Artichoke Dip

creamy spinach artichoke dip

Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy and savory appetizer that has become a staple at gatherings, especially during the holidays. This dip combines tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and a blend of cheesy goodness, making it a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach, chopped 2 cups
Artichoke hearts, chopped 1 can (14 oz)
Cream cheese 8 ounces
Sour cream ½ cup
Mayonnaise ¼ cup
Parmesan cheese, grated ½ cup
Mozzarella cheese, shredded ½ cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, and spices until smooth.
  3. Stir in the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, and both cheeses until evenly combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
  6. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm with your favorite dippers. Enjoy!
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Sweet Potato Hummus

creamy sweet potato hummus

Sweet Potato Hummus is a vibrant and nutritious twist on traditional hummus, offering a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. This creamy dip features roasted sweet potatoes blended with chickpeas, tahini, and a hint of spices, making it a perfect appetizer for Thanksgiving gatherings and a healthy alternative to heavier dips. Serve it with pita chips, fresh veggies, or drizzle it over salads for a delicious touch.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, peeled 2 medium
Canned chickpeas, drained 1 can (15 oz)
Tahini ¼ cup
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 1 clove
Ground cumin 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut sweet potatoes into halves or quarters and roast for about 25-30 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. Once cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh of the sweet potatoes into a food processor.
  3. Add chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. Serve in a bowl, drizzled with olive oil and garnished with your choice of herbs or spices. Enjoy!
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Mini Turkey Meatballs

savory turkey meatball appetizer

Mini Turkey Meatballs are a savory and satisfying appetizer perfect for any Thanksgiving gathering. Packed with flavor, these bite-sized meatballs are made with ground turkey and a blend of seasonings, making them a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. Serve them with a dipping sauce on the side for an added touch, ensuring they will be a hit among guests of all ages.

Ingredients Quantity
Ground turkey 1 pound
Breadcrumbs ½ cup
Egg 1 large
Parmesan cheese, grated ¼ cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Onion, finely chopped ½ medium
Fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Olive oil (for cooking) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.
  3. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
  5. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as marinara or a tangy yogurt dip, and enjoy!
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Veggie Platter With Dip

colorful veggie platter dip

Veggie Platters with Dip are a colorful and healthy addition to any Thanksgiving gathering. They provide a refreshing crunch and ample nutrients, making them the perfect complement to heavier dishes. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also allows guests to nibble on a variety of fresh vegetables served with a delicious dip of your choice.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, cut into sticks 2 large
Celery, cut into sticks 2 stalks
Bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced 2 medium
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup
Cucumber, sliced 1 large
Broccoli florets 1 cup
Cauliflower florets 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Your choice of dip (hummus, ranch, tzatziki, etc.) 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Prepare all vegetables by washing them thoroughly and cutting them into sticks or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Arrange the prepared vegetables on a large platter in a visually appealing manner.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper if desired.
  4. Serve with a bowl of your choice of dip in the center of the platter for easy access.
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Bacon-Wrapped Dates

bacon wrapped sweet savory bites

Bacon-Wrapped Dates are a sweet and savory treat that can add a delightful twist to your Thanksgiving appetizer spread. These bite-sized morsels are made by wrapping pitted dates in crispy bacon, creating a combination of flavors that is sure to please your guests. The contrast between the sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the bacon makes for an irresistible snack that is perfect for nibbling before the main feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Medjool dates, pitted 20
Bacon strips 10
Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
Toothpicks As needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut each bacon strip in half and wrap each piece around a pitted date, securing with a toothpick.
  3. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon-wrapped dates for added sweetness.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
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Pumpkin Deviled Eggs

festive pumpkin deviled eggs

Pumpkin Deviled Eggs are a festive and flavorful twist on the classic deviled egg, making them a perfect appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. With a delightful combination of pumpkin puree, spices, and creamy filling, these eggs bring a seasonal touch to the table while offering a tasty and nutritious option for your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Hard-boiled eggs 6
Pumpkin puree 1/4 cup
Mayonnaise 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Fresh chives (for garnish) Chopped, for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Slice the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks into a mixing bowl.
  2. Add pumpkin puree, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the egg yolks and mash until smooth and well combined.
  3. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the egg whites.
  4. Garnish with chopped chives before serving. Enjoy!
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Cheese and Charcuterie Board

elegant cheese and charcuterie spread

Cheese and Charcuterie Board is a visually stunning and delicious appetizer that is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. This dish offers a delightful assortment of cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruits, nuts, and accompaniments that can cater to various tastes and preferences, all while bringing a touch of elegance to your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Assorted cheeses (e.g., brie, cheddar, goat cheese) 8 oz each (3 types)
Cured meats (e.g., salami, prosciutto, chorizo) 8 oz each (3 types)
Fresh fruits (e.g., grapes, figs, apple slices) 1 cup total
Nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts) 1/2 cup
Olives 1/2 cup
Crackers or bread 1 box or 1 baguette
Honey or jam 2 tablespoons
Mustard (optional) 1 tablespoon
Fresh herbs for garnish Optional, for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Arrange the assorted cheeses on a large cutting board or platter, spacing them out for visual appeal.
  2. Fold or roll the cured meats and place them near the cheeses.
  3. Add the fresh fruits, nuts, and olives in between the cheese and meat for color and texture.
  4. Include crackers or slices of bread around the edge of the board.
  5. Add small bowls of honey or jam and mustard for dipping.
  6. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve and enjoy!
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Pigs in a Blanket

puff pastry wrapped sausages

Pigs in a Blanket are a classic and easy-to-make appetizer that adds a fun touch to any Thanksgiving gathering. These bite-sized treats consist of flavorful cocktail sausages wrapped in flaky puff pastry, making them a perfect finger food for guests to enjoy as they mingle.

Ingredients Quantity
Cocktail sausages 1 package (about 12-15 sausages)
Puff pastry sheets 1 package (2 sheets)
Egg (for egg wash) 1 large
Mustard or dipping sauce For serving
Optional seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, paprika) To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into strips (about 1 inch wide).
  3. Place a cocktail sausage at one end of each pastry strip and roll it up, sealing the edges.
  4. Place the wrapped sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries for a golden finish.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  7. Serve warm with mustard or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Roasted Nuts

savory spiced roasted nuts

Roasted nuts are a delightful and savory appetizer that can easily elevate your Thanksgiving feast. These crunchy, flavored nuts are not only simple to prepare but also encourage guests to snack as they socialize. You can mix and match your favorite nuts and spices to create a personalized blend that complements the rest of your festive spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans) 2 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Sea salt 1 teaspoon
Ground black pepper ½ teaspoon
Garlic powder ½ teaspoon
Rosemary (fresh or dried) 1 teaspoon
Optional spices (e.g., cayenne, smoked paprika) To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed nuts, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary, stirring until nuts are evenly coated.
  3. Spread the nut mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden and fragrant.
  5. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving. Enjoy your perfectly roasted nuts!

Caprese Skewers

fresh italian appetizer skewers

Caprese skewers are a fresh and vibrant appetizer that brings the classic Italian salad to a convenient party-friendly format. These colorful bites combine the creamy richness of mozzarella, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic taste of fresh basil, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic reduction. They are not only easy to assemble but also visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Cherry tomatoes 1 pint
Fresh mozzarella balls 8 ounces
Fresh basil leaves 1 bunch
Balsamic glaze ¼ cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Skewers (wooden or bamboo) 12-15 pieces

Cooking Steps:

  1. Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Pat them dry.
  2. On each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is filled, leaving space at each end for handling.
  3. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your delicious Caprese skewers!

Savory Puffs

savory pastry appetizer delight

Savory puffs are delightful bite-sized pastries that are sure to impress your Thanksgiving guests. These light and flaky treats can be filled with a variety of savory fillings, making them versatile and perfect for any holiday gathering. Whether you choose cheese, spinach, or a combination of delectable ingredients, savory puffs are a fantastic addition to your appetizer spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Puff pastry sheets 2 sheets
Cream cheese 8 ounces
Shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup
Spinach (cooked and chopped) 1 cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper To taste
Egg (for egg wash) 1 large

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut into squares (about 3×3 inches).
  3. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  4. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each pastry square and fold to form triangles or rectangles. Press the edges to seal and brush the tops with the beaten egg.
  5. Arrange the puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your savory puffs warm!

Jalapeño Popper Dip

creamy spicy jalape o dip

Jalapeño Popper Dip is a creamy and spicy appetizer that captures all the flavors of the classic jalapeño poppers but in a warm, scoopable form. This rich dip features a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapeños, making it a perfect choice for your Thanksgiving gathering. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping!

Ingredients Quantity
Cream cheese 8 ounces
Sour cream ½ cup
Shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup
Diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled) ½ cup
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Onion powder 1 teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper To taste
Chopped green onions 2 tablespoons
Bread crumbs (optional) ¼ cup
Olive oil (for topping) 1 tablespoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped green onions. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. If using, sprinkle bread crumbs on top and drizzle with olive oil.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  5. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm with chips or veggies for dipping. Enjoy!

Apple and Cheese Crostini

apple cheese toast appetizer

Apple and Cheese Crostini is a delightful and elegant appetizer that combines the sweetness of fresh apples with the savory richness of cheese, all atop toasted bread. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for your Thanksgiving celebration, offering a balance of textures and tastes that your guests will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Baguette or French bread 1 loaf
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Apples (e.g., Granny Smith, Honeycrisp) 2, thinly sliced
Goat cheese or Brie 8 ounces
Honey 2 tablespoons
Chopped walnuts (optional) ¼ cup
Fresh thyme or rosemary 1 teaspoon, chopped (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the baguette or French bread into ½-inch thick slices and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
  3. Bake the bread for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden and toasted.
  4. Remove the bread from the oven and top each slice with cheese, apple slices, and a drizzle of honey.
  5. If using, sprinkle with chopped walnuts and fresh herbs.
  6. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to warm through and slightly melt the cheese.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy the combination of flavors!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.