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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 homemade pico de gallo

Homemade Pico de Gallo

Whip up some homemade pico de gallo with fresh tomatoes, jalapeno, lime juice, red onion, and cilantro. This simple recipe is perfect for adding a zesty kick to your favorite...


Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for baked chicken nuggets

Baked Chicken Nuggets

These baked chicken nuggets are healthier than their deep fried counterparts so you can feel good about serving them to your family

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

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 arizona republic fried onion rings

Arizona Republic Fried Onion Rings

These crunchy onion rings from Arizona Republic can be either baked or fried.

Method:   oven, deep fryer
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for homemade chex mix

Homemade Chex Mix

There's nothing quite like a big bowl of homemade Chex mix. It's the perfect snack for any occasion, whether you're watching a movie or hosting a party.

Method:   microwave, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

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recipe for iced nuts

Iced Nuts

Candied almonds or cashews can add a terrific touch to salads, bringing some sweetness and crunchiness into the mix. Or, simply serve as a snack.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for southwestern cheesecake

Southwestern Cheesecake

Made with tortilla chips, salsa, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning mix, eggs, green chiles

Method:   oven
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for stuffed calamari

Stuffed Calamari

This is a classic way to serve calamari. Rich in Italian flavors, the calamari is filled with a sun dried tomato and peas stuffing and baked in a white wine-tomato sauce.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for open-face cucumber sandwiches

Open-Face Cucumber Sandwiches

Made with fresh dill, cocktail rye bread, cucumbers, cream cheese, ranch salad dressing mix, mayonnaise, sour cream


Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for cajun deviled eggs

Cajun Deviled Eggs

These deviled eggs are spiced up with jalapenos, cumin, and cayenne. They have a tasty bite to them without being overpowering.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for baked mexican dip

Baked Mexican Dip

This baked cheesy Mexican-flavored dip is always a party hit. It is easy to make, and can be tailored to your liking (try ground turkey for a healthier option).

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for taco crackers

Taco Crackers

Oyster crackers are roasted with taco seasoning, garlic powder, oregano, and chili powder.

Method:   oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for panko crusted chicken nuggets

Panko Crusted Chicken Nuggets

Put fast food nuggets to shame. Parmesan and panko give chicken that cravable, crucial crust that you know so well. Marinara or little homemade honey mustard would make...

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for chorizo empanadas

Chorizo Empanadas

Spicy chorizo makes a spectacular filling for empanadas. These scratch-made savory bites will make a fun cooking project with a tasty, tasty ending.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes


recipe for artichoke hummus

Artichoke Hummus

A unique hummus made with garbanzo beans, artichoke hearts, garlic and spices. There is no tahini in this version which lowers the fat content significantly.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for appetizer mushroom puffs

Appetizer Mushroom Puffs

These mushroom puffs are filled with cream cheese, mushrooms, and spices, all wrapped in crispy puff pastry. They're quick to prepare and make for an ideal appetizer or snack.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for pizza flavored popcorn

Pizza Flavored Popcorn

Made with black pepper, popcorn, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herb seasoning, paprika, salt


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for goat cheese, spinach, and artichoke dip

Goat Cheese, Spinach, and Artichoke Dip

This upscale version of spinach-artichoke dip is made with goat cheese instead of the more commonly used cream cheese in other recipes.

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for chinese oven spareribs

Chinese Oven Spareribs

Marinated in a sherry, soy, ginger, brown sugar sauce and then oven-baked until tender and browned.

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for seven-layer mexican dip

Seven-Layer Mexican Dip

This seven layer dip has all the classics. Refried beans, sour cream, guacamole... Every bite is different and delicious.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for slow cooker hot faux crab dip

Slow Cooker Hot Faux Crab Dip

A creamy dip made with milk, salsa, cream cheese, imitation crab, green onions, and green chiles. Heat it in the crock pot and serve warm with your favorite dippers.

Method:   crock pot
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for cheesy stuffed sliders

Cheesy Stuffed Sliders

Cheesy stuffed sliders are the perfect bite-sized snack or party food. Tender, juicy beef is stuffed with gooey cheese and sandwiched between soft, fluffy slider buns.

Method:   outdoor grill
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for mashed potato fondue

Mashed Potato Fondue

This tasty twist on fondue mixes mashed potatoes with creamy cheese. Serve with a variety of dippers.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for slow cooker boiled peanuts

Slow Cooker Boiled Peanuts

When it comes to boiled peanuts, southerners know how to do it right. These salty snacks are perfect for road trips, picnics, or simply enjoying on a lazy afternoon.

Method:   crock pot
Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for turkey spread

Turkey Spread

Tired of those holiday leftovers? Try this dressed up turkey spread that is delicious as a sandwich or served on crackers.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for cafe tu tu tango's empanadas with cilantro sour cream

Cafe Tu Tu Tango's Empanadas With Cilantro Sour Cream

Con: empanadas take a bit of prep work. Pro: empanadas are amazing. Tough choice, huh? Ground beef with two cheeses, crushed tomatoes, and a load...

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


recipe for marinated mushrooms and asparagus

Marinated Mushrooms And Asparagus

Made with fresh asparagus, fresh mushrooms, salt, olive oil, water, lemons, lemon zest, bay leaves, garlic, whole peppercorns

Method:   stovetop
Time:   2-5 hours

recipe for slow cooker pizza meatballs

Slow Cooker Pizza Meatballs

Mozzarella stuffed meatballs are slow-cooked in a tasty tomato sauce. Serve as an appetizer or entree.

Method:   oven, crock pot
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for deviled eggs mimosa

Deviled Eggs Mimosa

Eggs mimosa is the French name for deviled eggs. This recipe changes things up a bit by adding mashed avocado to the egg filling.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for boudreaux's hot and spicy party trash

Boudreaux's Hot And Spicy Party Trash

It's got hot and spicy in the name, so don't be surprised when it's got a kick and a half. Chex, nuts, and cheese crackers make a perfect by-the-handful party...

Method:   oven
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for bacon-stuffed eggs

Bacon-Stuffed Eggs

This basic recipe for deviled eggs gets a little extra flavor from the addition of bacon to the filling. Bacon makes everything better.


Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for nacho popcorn

Nacho Popcorn

This popcorn snack has a hint of nacho flavors when coated with paprika, crushed red pepper, cumin, butter, and Parmesan cheese.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for italian potato chips

Italian Potato Chips

Delicious homemade crispy potato chips with light Italian seasonings.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for curried crab dip

Curried Crab Dip

Made with crabmeat, cream cheese, madras curry powder, mayonnaise, coconut milk, green onions or chives, red bell pepper

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for crispy buffalo chicken strips

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Strips

Batter up your chicken strips with a cayenne, cornflake topping. For a healthier alternative, pop these superstars in the oven or air fryer for that oh-so-desired crunch.

Method:   oven, air fryer
Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for chiles en vinagre

Chiles en Vinagre

Made with thyme, marjoram, oregano, oil, green chiles, carrots, onions, red bell pepper, malt vinegar, garlic

Method:   stovetop
Time:   1-2 hours

recipe for sugar free candied nuts

Sugar Free Candied Nuts

This sugar-free treat is made up of three kinds of nuts that are mixed with a sweet cinnamon coating.

Method:   oven
Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for onion and garlic dip

Onion And Garlic Dip

Forget the store-bought dips, this fresh tasting, creamy dip is much more deserving of your crackers and veggies.


Time:   1-2 hours


recipe for cajun fried calamari

Cajun Fried Calamari

Crispy-fried calamari with a spicy Cajun-style kick.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for spicy peanuts

Spicy Peanuts

A quick and spicy snack made with peanuts, garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika and chili powder

Method:   stovetop, oven
Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for slow cooker cheddar cheese fondue

Slow Cooker Cheddar Cheese Fondue

The perfect party dish. This simple cheesy fondue is easy to make and can be kept warm in your slow cooker, making it ideal for entertaining. Your guests will love it!

Method:   crock pot
Time:   2-5 hours


recipe for kaktugi kimchi

Kaktugi Kimchi

Classic kimchi is made with cabbage, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. This kaktugi mixture of spiced radishes and scallions makes an outstanding side dish for a Korean spread.


Time:   over 5 hours

recipe for deep fried onions in a spicy batter

Deep Fried Onions In A Spicy Batter

As if onion rings weren't delicious enough, these have cayenne, curry, and cumin in the batter to give them extra flavor.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   under 30 minutes

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 texas corn 'n' black bean salsa

Texas Corn 'n' Black Bean Salsa

Delicious salsa with black beans for something a little more substantial than your typical dip. With a bite from jalapeno, this chunky salsa is great on tortilla chips...


Time:   30-60 minutes

recipe for chipotle blue cheese dip

Chipotle Blue Cheese Dip

Turn up the flavor with chipotle peppers, creamy mayonnaise, and blue cheese dressing in this tasty dip that's ready to serve with chips.


Time:   under 30 minutes

recipe for mexican cocktail sauce

Mexican Cocktail Sauce

You'd better bet a Mexican sauce has jalapeno and lime in it. This cocktail sauce gives shrimp a south-of-the-border kick. Add the splash of tequila for the full experience.


Time:   under 30 minutes


recipe for tex mex deviled eggs

Tex Mex Deviled Eggs

Breakfast burritos with scrambled eggs are great, so why not Tex-Mex deviled eggs? They're great served as a party appetizer or on the side of a taco salad.


Time:   under 30 minutes

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 kimi's pork gyoza

Kimi's Pork Gyoza

These delicious dumplings are made with a pork filling that is delicately seasoned, and they are seared and then steamed until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Method:   stovetop
Time:   30-60 minutes





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