20 Appetizers To Make For Your Next Gathering
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When I’m hosting friends or family, I like to keep things simple but still make the food feel special. Appetizers are perfect because they’re easy to share, quick to put together, and always set the tone for the rest of the meal. I’ve pulled together a variety of options that make entertaining less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.

BLT Dip

BLT Dip brings together flavors everyone already loves in a simple way that works well when hosting guests. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, so you can focus on other details before people arrive. The creamy texture pairs well with crackers, bread, or veggies, making it versatile for different preferences. This dish fits right into any spread because it’s casual yet still feels special for sharing.
Get the Recipe: BLT Dip
Beer Cheese

Beer Cheese is a warm and creamy option that pairs nicely with pretzels, bread, or crunchy vegetables. It’s quick to prepare and keeps people coming back for more during casual gatherings. The texture and flavor are easy to enjoy, making it a good choice when you want something that feels hearty but simple. Serving this gives guests a classic option that’s easy to dip and share.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese
Hawaiian Roll Meatball Sliders

Hawaiian Roll Meatball Sliders are a filling option that’s easy to make in batches, making them practical for feeding a group. They hold up well on a table and can be served warm or at room temperature. The rolls add a slightly sweet touch that pairs nicely with the savory meatballs. These sliders are a crowd-friendly option that feels comforting and easy to enjoy with friends.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Meatball Sliders
Beef Quesadillas

Beef Quesadillas come together quickly with just a few ingredients and can be sliced into portions perfect for sharing. They’re simple to cook and reheat, which makes them convenient for gatherings. The crispy exterior with a flavorful filling is always appealing when laid out with other choices. This makes them a practical option for serving when you want something warm and easy to grab.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas
Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Air Fryer Pasta Chips are a fun twist that adds something crunchy to the table without much effort. They cook quickly and can be paired with a variety of dips. Their unique texture makes them stand out, giving guests something a little different to snack on. This recipe is a smart way to offer something easy yet memorable when people are gathered around.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips
Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip is warm, cheesy, and hearty, making it a reliable option for casual get-togethers. It can be baked ahead of time and reheated, which keeps hosting stress low. The flavor is bold but still approachable, so it tends to be a crowd favorite. This dip works well for sharing since it pairs with chips, bread, or veggies.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites combine a rich protein with a crisp exterior, making them feel a little more special than standard finger food. They cook quickly and can be served warm, which is convenient for timing around guests arriving. The bite-sized portions are easy to pick up and enjoy without utensils. This makes them a nice option for balancing out heavier dishes on the table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites
Crab Melt

Crab Melt offers a warm, cheesy bite that feels hearty but not overly heavy. It comes together in just a short amount of time, which makes it practical for entertaining. The topping stays flavorful and appealing even as it cools a bit. Serving this at a gathering gives people a classic seafood option that feels approachable and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt
Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Air Fryer Garlic Bread is a fast and reliable option when you need something that works well with dips or stands on its own. It cooks in minutes and can be served in small slices for sharing. The buttery flavor with crisp edges is always welcome on the table. It’s a practical recipe that balances out a spread with something simple yet crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread
Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites offer a balance of creamy and sweet in a neat, handheld portion. They bake quickly and look appealing, which makes them a standout option for a gathering. The flaky pastry holds everything together in a way that’s easy for guests to enjoy without much mess. These bites bring variety to the table while still being simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Air Fryer Lumpia

Air Fryer Lumpia is a crispy finger food that’s easy to make in large batches. Cooking them in the air fryer saves time and keeps cleanup minimal. Their crunchy texture and savory filling make them an easy favorite when set out for sharing. This recipe works well for entertaining because it’s simple, flavorful, and fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a straightforward option that everyone can enjoy, from kids to adults. They cook quickly and stay crisp without much effort. The pieces are easy to dip into sauces, which makes them versatile for different tastes. They’re a solid choice for hosting since they’re simple, familiar, and quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies are a classic option that always gets finished fast at gatherings. They’re simple to prep and can be baked in large trays, making them ideal for feeding a group. The combination of smoky flavor and crisp bacon is familiar and well-liked. These bites are small, easy to eat, and practical for keeping on the table throughout an event.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies
Turkey Roll Ups

Turkey Roll Ups are light, quick to assemble, and easy to make ahead of time. They store well in the fridge, which helps if you’re planning ahead for guests. Their simple flavors make them approachable, and they can be sliced into neat portions for sharing. This makes them a smart addition to any gathering where finger foods are needed.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups
Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Shrimp Cucumber Bites combine fresh flavors in a neat, bite-sized portion that’s easy to handle at a gathering. They require minimal cooking and can be assembled quickly. The cool cucumber pairs well with shrimp, keeping the dish light but flavorful. These are a good choice for balancing heavier options on the table with something fresh and easy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites
Crab Rangoon Dip

Crab Rangoon Dip is a creamy seafood option that pairs nicely with chips, bread, or vegetables. It’s easy to bake and reheat, making it practical when you’re entertaining. The warm and smooth texture makes it appealing for dipping. This recipe works well for sharing since it brings a familiar flavor to the table in a simple format.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip
Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer offers a mix of sweet and savory flavors in a quick-cooking recipe. The air fryer makes preparation fast with minimal cleanup. The bite-sized pieces are convenient for guests to pick up and enjoy. This option adds variety to the spread and is easy to prepare in batches.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer
Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings are crunchy and smoky, giving guests a fun twist on a classic snack. They’re easy to cook in the oven or air fryer and can be served warm or at room temperature. Their size makes them simple to grab and enjoy without utensils. This recipe is practical for gatherings since it’s quick to prepare and unique enough to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings
Jalapeño Popper Dip

Jalapeño Popper Dip is a warm, cheesy option that brings just the right amount of heat to the table. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and bake when needed. The dip pairs with chips, crackers, or vegetables, giving guests several ways to enjoy it. This makes it a solid choice when you want something flavorful and simple to share.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Dip
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese are crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them a hearty option for sharing. They’re quick to cook in the air fryer and easy to make in batches. The addition of cheese gives them an extra layer of comfort that fits well with other dishes. This recipe is practical because it’s simple, familiar, and easy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese