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Appetizers and Snacks

Appetizers and Snacks

Appetizers can be a casual snack, the center of attention at a cocktail party, or the precursor to an entree.
Find something for any occasion - from simple finger food to elegant hors d'oeuvres - dips, salsa, stuffed mushrooms, hot bites and cold nibbles, chicken wings and so many more tasty tidbits!



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Enter a word or two in the box to find recipes within the appetizer and snack section. You can search the title, ingredients, or entire recipe by selecting the appropriate option.

Recipes  /   appetizers & snacks
recipe for pennsylvania dutch pickled eggs

Pennsylvania Dutch Pickled Eggs

Pickled eggs are yummy, and their color is out of this world. Thanks to some sliced beets in the pickling liquid, these eggs are show-stoppingly stunning.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for shrimp cocktail

Shrimp Cocktail

Elegant and delicious, shrimp cocktail is a popular dish that can be served as an appetizer or even as the main course.


Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for cranberry delight cream cheese spread

Cranberry Delight Cream Cheese Spread

Everyone always seems to go with savory snack spreads, so this sweet cream cheese dip is an easy way to stand out from the crowd.


Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for giardiniera, chicago-style

Giardiniera, Chicago-Style

A jar of giardiniera makes a centerpiece, condiment, and gift all in one. Vinegar-packed veggies and hot peppers make an awesome sweet and spicy topping for sausages and hot...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for italian potato chips

Italian Potato Chips

Delicious homemade crispy potato chips with light Italian seasonings.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

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recipe for crab cocktail sauce

Crab Cocktail Sauce

Crab cocktail sauce has a different "tang" than your usual shrimp cocktail sauce to complement the flavor of the crab. Feel free to up the horseradish if you like extra...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for slow cooker rotel cheese dip

Slow Cooker Rotel Cheese Dip

This cheese dip is creamy, gooey, and delicious, with subtle chile heat. A must-have at any party, this cheesy dip is quick and simple to make.

Method:   crock pot
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for copycat simon and seaforts onion rings

Copycat Simon and Seaforts Onion Rings

Onion rings are so simple that the little things really matter. Little things like a dash of sugar, choosing the right beer for the batter, and just-right cook...

Method:   deep fryer
Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for copycat red lobster's lobster fondue

Copycat Red Lobster's Lobster Fondue

Made with imitation lobster, lobster tail, velveeta cheese, Swiss cheese, cream of shrimp soup, milk, cayenne pepper, paprika

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for simple crab cakes with spicy mayonnaise

Simple Crab Cakes with Spicy Mayonnaise

These crab cakes have a great balance of ingredients which yield tender cakes that hold their shape without being dry.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for mini mac and cheese bites

Mini Mac And Cheese Bites

Mini mac and cheese bites are the perfect bite-sized snack or appetizer. These little morsels are packed with cheesy flavor and will be devoured in no time.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for slow cooker bourbon cocktail meatballs

Slow Cooker Bourbon Cocktail Meatballs

These glazed meatballs will be a hit at your next cocktail party. A cup of bourbon for the barbecue glaze already has you breaking out the good stuff, so why not...

Method:   crock pot
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for stuffed artichoke bottoms

Stuffed Artichoke Bottoms

Artichoke bottoms make the perfect base for these savory spinach appetizers.

Method:   oven
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for ham and pickle roll-ups

Ham and Pickle Roll-Ups

Also known as Lutheran sushi, this savory pickle, cream cheese, and ham roll-up is great for snacking and entertaining, while being easy to prepare too.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for cream cheese and bacon hors d'oeuvre

Cream Cheese And Bacon Hors D'Oeuvre

A mixture of cream cheese and green onions is tucked inside crescent roll dough. The entire roll is wrapped in a slice of bacon and baked until done.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for swedish meat balls party-style

Swedish Meat Balls Party-Style

What's a party without the Swedish meatballs? These mini bites are subtly spiced with nutmeg and allspice to add a little intrigue to their flavor palate. The meatballs...

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for simple chocolate-covered pretzels

Simple Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

Anybody know what genius first decided to cover pretzels in chocolate? This ultra-easy recipe makes a great homemade version of the classic sweet and salty morsel.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for chinese pork and shrimp dumplings

Chinese Pork And Shrimp Dumplings

These dumplings (gyoza) are made with ground pork, chopped shrimp, water chestnuts, carrot, cilantro, ginger, green onion, and lots of seasonings.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for fried onion rings in mustard-beer batter

Fried Onion Rings In Mustard-Beer Batter

Out with ordinary onion rings. Dijon and beer make a bangin' batter for these babies, and the extra beer goes perfectly with all that fried goodness.

Method:   deep fryer
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for bagel thins

Bagel Thins

Thin bagel slices are coated with butter and sprinkled with dried oregano before baking. They make great snacks by themselves or are great as dippers with your favorite dip.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for hot vidalia onion dip

Hot Vidalia Onion Dip

This addicting dip is made with only three ingredients: mayonnaise, Swiss cheese, and onions.

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for tuna tartare

Tuna Tartare

Skip overpriced restaurant tuna tartare and make it at home. Tuna, avocado, and jalapeno, flavored with a kick of wasabi and served on wonton crisps makes an absolutely killer appetizer.


Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for smoked salmon lollipops

Smoked Salmon Lollipops

Cubes of English cucumber are wrapped in smoked salmon and cream cheese and rolled in freshly chopped dill to make this impressive yet simple appetizer recipe.


Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for lobster bites

Lobster Bites

Flaky crescent roll dough is topped with cooked lobster that is basted in sherry and butter.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for fabulous low fat pot stickers

Fabulous Low Fat Pot Stickers

There's only four grams of fat per serving in these delicious low fat potstickers. They are made with ground chicken or turkey instead of the usual ground pork.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for old-fashioned spicy deviled eggs

Old-Fashioned Spicy Deviled Eggs

These tasty deviled eggs are made by mixing hard-boiled egg yolks with mayonnaise, spices, and a variety of other ingredients that add lots of flavor and texture.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for arizona coyote caviar

Arizona Coyote Caviar

This zesty dip is made with black beans, black olives, green chiles, garlic, cilantro, spices, cream cheese, and salsa.


Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for pickled asparagus

Pickled Asparagus

Pickled asparagus is a great way to enjoy this vegetable during the off months. The pickling process helps retain the flavor and nutrients of the asparagus, while also adding a bit of...

Method:   stovetop
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for spicy thai salsa

Spicy Thai Salsa

Unmistakably Thai ingredients like fish sauce and shrimp paste give this salsa a unique spin, and make it a sensational choice for fusion food like spicy Thai tacos topped with...

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for best cottage cheese dip

Best Cottage Cheese Dip

Just four ingredients for a party-ready snack. This cottage and cream cheese is easy, tasty, and surprisingly healthy for how delicious it is. Make sure you make enough!


Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for sri lankan sates

Sri Lankan Sates

Made with vegetable oil, onion, ginger, garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground turmeric, salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method:   stovetop, outdoor grill
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for instant salsa

Instant Salsa

Don't skip out on the splash of red wine vinegar. It helps give this salsa a punch that brightens up tacos, burrito bowls, and anything else you throw this salsa on top of.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for chili powder salsa

Chili Powder Salsa

Fresh, homemade salsa with a kick is good for so much more than just tortilla chip dipping. Add to breakfast tacos, spread on quesadillas, or use as a burger topping.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for copycat red lobster's smoked salmon canapes

Copycat Red Lobster's Smoked Salmon Canapes

Red Lobster's smoked salmon canapes are an easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any party or gathering. They can be made ahead of time, making them a...


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for bacon quesadillas

Bacon Quesadillas

An easy and tasty oven-baked version of quesadillas made with flour tortillas, Colby/Monterey Jack cheese blend, bacon, and green onions.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for homemade honey mustard pretzels

Homemade Honey Mustard Pretzels

A great snack food for movie night or a munchie for a party. The pretzels absorb the flavors of the mustard so the stronger the mustard, the stronger the flavor.

Method:   oven
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for beer dip

Beer Dip

A beer dip that'll be different with every brew you try. A lager beer, not too heavy or too light, is a safe choice to play nice with the sharp flavor of cheddar.


Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for sardine dip

Sardine Dip

Need a fast and flavorful snack? This sardine dip combines salty sardines, tangy salad dressing, and just a hint of garlic and onion. Great with crackers or for spreading on bread.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for open-faced reuben sandwiches

Open-Faced Reuben Sandwiches

Whip up a batch of open-faced Reubens and watch them disappear faster than your willingness to share. It's rye, it's tangy, it's cheesy goodness, no secrets here.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for honey dijon dipping sauce

Honey Dijon Dipping Sauce

Dijon mustard gives the dipping sauce a sharpness that works beautifully with sweetness from the honey. Try with chicken fingers or salmon.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for asian beef hors d'oeuvres

Asian Beef Hors D'oeuvres

Tiny bites of tender beef are cooked in a blend of hoisin and duck sauce. Serve with cocktail picks.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for spicy seafood cocktail sauce

Spicy Seafood Cocktail Sauce

This spicy sauce is perfect for dipping or topping boiled shrimp, steamed crab, and other seafood.


Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for frickles (fried dill pickles in beer batter)

Frickles (Fried Dill Pickles In Beer Batter)

These battered and fried pickles are perfect for parties or game day gatherings, and can be served with a dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or ketchup.

Method:   deep fryer
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for armadillo eggs

Armadillo Eggs

The ultimate in jalapeno poppers! Hot jalapenos are stuffed with cheese and wrapped in a crispy sausage coating.

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for cheesy bagel pizzas

Cheesy Bagel Pizzas

Change things up for pizza night with these easy bagel pizzas. The perfect snack for when you need something quick.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for chicken fajita quesadillas

Chicken Fajita Quesadillas

A Mexican one-two punch: the fajita quesadilla! Sauteed chicken, peppers, and onions pressed with cheese in flour tortillas is genius. Great with sour cream or salsa.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for honey double-mustard dip

Honey Double-Mustard Dip

Made with Dijon mustard, vegetable oil, honey, dry mustard

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for asian-style crab cakes

Asian-Style Crab Cakes

These crab cakes use panko bread crumbs which give them a lighter texture than other crab cakes. Serve with tartar or cocktail sauce, or some wasabi mayo!

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for parmigiano reggiano frico

Parmigiano Reggiano Frico

Crisps of baked Parmigiano Reggiano make gorgeous garnishes for salads, and are pretty tempting to snack on by themselves.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for sausage and pepperoni pizza egg rolls

Sausage And Pepperoni Pizza Egg Rolls

Some very incognito pizza rolls. Egg roll wraps actually make the perfect vehicle for pizza toppings since all that ooey gooey cheese could use a crispy crunch to...

Method:   deep fryer, stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes





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