What’s better than food? Well, not many things, honestly. But what about tiny foods? That’s right, we’re talking about appetizers. Arguably the most fun course on Turkey Day, the appetizers are your blank canvas to try some trendy and new recipes out at your otherwise-traditional dinner. Celebrate the season in your starters menu with plump cranberries, spicy cinnamon, tender butternut squash, and so much more. From mini meatballs to festive nachos, here are 20 wow-worthy appetizers for a truly Fall-festive table:
1. Autumn Brussels Sprouts
Even if your mom had to force you to eat these as a kid, you’ll fall in love with this yummy veggie recipe. Sweet and salty come together to make one seriously yummy appetizer to add to your table.
2. Goat Cheese Stuffed Figs
Bring this artisan flavor profile to your kitchen in a super-easy way! Sweet figs are paired with rich goat cheese for a bite-size treat that your guests will RAVE about.
3. Baked Brie
What’s the only thing better than a ball of cheese? A ball of melted cheese. You can prep this classic appetizer any way you’d like, but this version with maple syrup and candied pecans looks amazing to us!
4. Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
These toothpick-sized goodies are the perfect starter to curb your guests’ turkey cravings! Definitely a must-try for fans of the savory things in life.
5. Caramelized Onion, Mushroom, Apple. and Gruyere Bite
Trick your guests into thinking you’re a pro baker with these impressive and cheesy pastry bites. Stuff ’em however you’d like, but onion, mushroom, and apple just screams “fall” to us!
6. Smoky Chipotle Pumpkin Hummus
Switch out the #basic ranch dip that comes with the veggie platter for this spicy and healthy alternative. Your family won’t be able to help themselves from dipping into it!
7. Pomegranate and Basil Bruschetta
This *vegan* appetizer is the perfect fresh plate to place around your steaming turkey day dishes! Plus, the pomegranate seeds will look SO fab on your table.
8. Apple, Onion, and Ricotta Flatbread
Let your guests get handsy by breaking off pieces of this gorgeous autumn-inspired flatbread! Plus, you can finally make use of those leftover apples from the orchard.
9. Spinach Dip Bites
It’s everyone’s favorite year-round appetizer without the awkward double-dipping.
10. Thanksgiving Nachos
Perfect for an in-formal Friendsgiving! Layers of cheese and veggies in a red-hot skillet are the ultimate appetizer for your Thanksgiving table OR in front of the couch when you’re watching some post-dinner football!
11. Curry Sweet Potato Cups
For fans of the spicy things in life, take a cue from our friends overseas for these Indian-inspired sweet potato cups! The natural sweetness of the potatoes and the kick of curry are a match made in culinary heaven.
12. Red Pepper Deviled “Pumpkins”
Seriously, how cute are these things?! We’ll take 100, please.
13. Sweet Potato Casserole Bites
All of the yummy ingredients of the classic casserole in one compact, bite-size nibble!
14. Stuffin’s
To many, stuffing muffins are a staple dish at the table! But for a smaller-scaled dish, bake them in mini-muffin tins for a drool-worthy appetizer!
15. Herb and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Your kitchen will smell AHHMAZING when you’ve got these going in your oven, guaranteed.
16. Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are the new potato chips! Pop these crunchy little things in the oven with tons of fall-inspired spice (dare we say, pumpkin spice for a dessert dish?!) for an adorable table addition.
17. Roasted Hasselback Beets with Dill Dressing
Beets aren’t just for summer anymore! Roast these superfoods and top the dish off with some creamy dill dressing for a warm salad. Your guests will be begging you for the recipe.
18. Maple Bacon Wrapped Roasted Carrots
Pro tip: wrap everything in bacon. Guests probably won’t complain.
19. Homemade Apple Chips
Perfect for an appetizer or a dessert table side! Plus, these little beauties are absolutely GORGEOUS when they’re fresh out of the oven.
20. Deep-Fried Olives
Test your culinary skills by breaking out the deep fryer to make these as a salty snack! Your guests will be beyond impressed.
