Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. As you prepare for the big feast, don’t forget about the appetizers that set the tone for the meal.

These small bites can keep guests happy and satisfied while the main dishes are being prepared.

Appetizers are a great way to showcase your culinary skills and add variety to your Thanksgiving menu. You can try classic recipes or experiment with new flavors.

From savory dips to bite-sized treats, there are many options to choose from. With the right appetizers, you can create a memorable start to your Thanksgiving celebration.

1. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer that will impress your guests. These savory bites are easy to make and packed with flavor.

To prepare them, remove the stems from mushroom caps and chop them finely. Mix the chopped stems with cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and grated Parmesan.

Fill each mushroom cap with the mixture and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake until golden and bubbly.

You can use button mushrooms or larger varieties like portobello for a heartier appetizer.

Serve these warm, cheesy stuffed mushrooms as your guests arrive. They’ll love the rich, earthy flavors that set the tone for your Thanksgiving feast.

2. Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are a tasty and easy appetizer for your Thanksgiving spread. You’ll need puff pastry, brie cheese, cranberry sauce, and pecans.

Cut the puff pastry into small squares and place them in a mini muffin tin. Add a piece of brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce to each square.

Top with chopped pecans and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes. The pastry will puff up and turn golden, while the cheese melts.

These bites are best served warm. The combo of creamy brie, tart cranberries, and buttery pastry is sure to please your guests.

3. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. They’re easy to make and always a hit with guests.

To make them, start by hard-boiling eggs. Once cooled, cut them in half and remove the yolks.

Mix the yolks with mayo, mustard, and spices. Pipe this mixture back into the egg whites.

For a fun twist, try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Or mix in some finely chopped herbs for extra freshness.

You can make these ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until ready to serve. They’ll disappear quickly once your guests arrive!

4. Pumpkin Hummus

Pumpkin hummus is a tasty twist on the classic dip. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. You can make it quickly with canned chickpeas and pumpkin puree.

Add tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice for a smooth texture. Spice it up with chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin. A touch of maple syrup balances the flavors nicely.

Serve your pumpkin hummus with veggie sticks or crackers. It’s a healthy appetizer that fits the fall theme. Your guests will love this creamy, festive dip before the main meal.

5. Maple Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Maple bacon wrapped Brussels sprouts are a tasty Thanksgiving appetizer. You’ll need Brussels sprouts, bacon strips, and maple syrup.

Start by wrapping each Brussels sprout with a strip of bacon. Brush the bacon with maple syrup for added sweetness.

Bake the wrapped sprouts in the oven until the bacon is crispy. The maple syrup will caramelize, creating a delicious glaze.

These appetizers are a perfect mix of sweet and savory. Your guests will love the crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts.

Serve them warm as a finger food. They’re easy to pick up and eat in one or two bites.

6. Pecan-Crusted Cheese Balls

Pecan-crusted cheese balls are a tasty and simple appetizer for your Thanksgiving table. You can make them in advance, which saves time on the big day.

To create these treats, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and spices in a bowl. Add a bit of lemon juice for tang. Fold in some chopped pecans for crunch.

Shape the mixture into a ball using plastic wrap. Roll it in more chopped pecans to coat the outside. Chill the cheese ball for at least two hours before serving.

Serve your pecan-crusted cheese ball with crackers or vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleasing snack that fits right in with other holiday appetizers.

7. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Roasted butternut squash soup is a cozy Thanksgiving appetizer. To make it, you’ll roast cubed butternut squash with salt, pepper, and oil in the oven for about 40 minutes.

Once roasted, blend the squash with broth, spices, and a touch of cream. Simmer the soup for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors combine.

This soup is packed with nutrients. One cup provides over 450% of your daily vitamin A and 50% of your vitamin C needs.

For extra flavor, try adding smoked gouda cheese. Top with spicy roasted chickpeas instead of croutons for a crunchy contrast.

8. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Spinach artichoke dip is a classic Thanksgiving appetizer that’s sure to please your guests. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes with a few simple ingredients.

To make this creamy dip, you’ll need cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until smooth.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly.

Serve your spinach artichoke dip warm with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping. It’s a crowd-pleasing starter that will get everyone excited for the main meal.

9. Caramelized Onion Tart

Caramelized onion tart is a tasty appetizer for your Thanksgiving table. You’ll need a pastry crust, onions, butter, and olive oil to start.

Slice the onions thinly and cook them in a pan over medium heat. Add a pinch of sugar to help them brown. This process takes about 30 minutes.

Once the onions are golden and sweet, spread them in the pre-baked tart shell. Mix eggs, cream, and cheese, then pour over the onions.

Bake the tart until it’s set and lightly golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Your guests will love this savory treat.

10. Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a tasty and easy appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. To make it, preheat your oven to 425°F. Trim the tough ends off fresh asparagus spears.

Wrap each asparagus spear with a thin slice of prosciutto. Place the wrapped spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper. Bake for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy.

Serve these warm appetizers immediately. They’re sure to be a hit with your guests as they wait for the main Thanksgiving meal.

11. Sweet Potato Crostini

Sweet potato crostini is a tasty twist on traditional appetizers. You’ll love these bite-sized treats that combine sweet and savory flavors.

Start by slicing sweet potatoes thinly and roasting them until crisp. This creates a delicious base for your toppings.

Top the sweet potato rounds with goat cheese for a creamy contrast. Add a sprinkle of candied pecans for crunch and sweetness.

For extra flavor, drizzle with a touch of honey or balsamic glaze. Fresh thyme leaves make a great garnish and add a hint of herb.

These crostini are easy to make and perfect for impressing your Thanksgiving guests. They offer a unique taste of fall in every bite.

12. Smoked Salmon Canapés

Smoked salmon canapés are an elegant appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. To make them, start with thin slices of baguette. Toast the bread until golden and crispy.

Mix cream cheese with chopped dill and capers for a flavorful spread. Add a touch of lemon juice for brightness.

Spread the mixture on each toast and top with a small piece of smoked salmon. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill and thinly sliced cucumber for extra crunch.

These bite-sized treats are easy to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble them up to a few hours before your guests arrive. Keep them covered in the fridge until serving.

13. Rosemary Garlic Breadsticks

Rosemary garlic breadsticks are a tasty addition to your Thanksgiving appetizer spread. You can make them easily with just a few ingredients.

Start by dissolving sugar and yeast in warm water. Add oil, salt, and flour to form a soft dough. Let it rise until doubled in size.

Shape the dough into thin sticks and brush with olive oil. Sprinkle minced garlic and chopped fresh rosemary on top. Bake until golden brown and crisp.

These breadsticks have a wonderful aroma and savory flavor. Serve them warm alongside other appetizers for your guests to enjoy before the main meal.

14. Fig and Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Fig and goat cheese bruschetta is a tasty Thanksgiving appetizer. It combines sweet figs with tangy goat cheese on crispy bread.

To make it, toast baguette slices until lightly browned. Let them cool for a few minutes.

Spread goat cheese on each toast. Top with a slice of fresh fig. For extra flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the figs.

You can add crushed pistachios for crunch. This appetizer balances sweet, salty, and creamy flavors.

It’s quick to prepare and looks impressive on a serving platter. Your guests will love this elegant starter before the main Thanksgiving meal.

15. Butternut Squash Risotto Balls

Butternut squash risotto balls make a tasty Thanksgiving appetizer. Start by cooking risotto with butternut squash, onions, and broth. Let the risotto cool completely.

Shape the cooled risotto into small balls. Coat each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg and roll in breadcrumbs.

Chill the breaded balls for at least 30 minutes before frying. Deep fry the risotto balls until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

These appetizers are packed with flavor from the creamy risotto and sweet butternut squash. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. Serve them warm for the best taste and texture.

Using Seasonal Ingredients

Add fall flair to your appetizers with seasonal ingredients.

Use mini pumpkins as serving bowls for dips or spreads. Hollow out small gourds to hold warm soups or chilled shrimp cocktail.

Arrange cheese boards with pops of autumn color.

Add fresh figs, pomegranate seeds, and dried cranberries. Sprinkle candied pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Garnish plates with colorful leaves made from thinly sliced radishes or beets.

Cut carrots into flower shapes for a pretty accent. Sprinkle dishes with fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Serve warm appetizers in mini cast iron skillets or copper pots for a cozy feel.

Use rustic wooden boards or slate tiles as serving platters to match the season.