31 Appetizers To Start The Meal Off Right

When it comes to getting a meal started, I always like having something that grabs attention right away. A good appetizer sets the tone and gives everyone something to enjoy while waiting for the main dish. These recipes are simple to pull together and make hosting feel a whole lot easier.

Close-up of a seasoned chicken wing with herbs, held between fingers. — Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

BLT Dip

A hand holding a loaded potato skin topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and a slice of tomato. — BLT Dip. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This dip has the familiar flavors of a BLT sandwich in a creamy, shareable form. It’s quick to put together and works well with chips, crackers, or veggies. The fresh mix of bacon, lettuce, and tomato makes it feel light yet filling. This recipe is a great choice when you want an appetizer that’s easy and crowd-friendly.
Get the Recipe: BLT Dip

Hawaiian Roll Meatball Sliders

A baking dish filled with meatballs covered in melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a white surface. — Hawaiian Roll Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Sliders made with Hawaiian rolls and meatballs are perfect for feeding a group. They bake up quickly and are easy to serve as finger food. The mix of sweet rolls with savory meat makes them hearty without being too heavy. This recipe is ideal when you need an appetizer that feels like a small meal.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Meatball Sliders

Beer Cheese

A pretzel bite is being dipped into a bowl of cheese sauce. — Beer Cheese. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Warm, cheesy, and rich, this dip pairs well with pretzels, bread, or veggies. It can be made in under 30 minutes, which makes it great for last-minute gatherings. The bold flavor keeps people coming back for more. This recipe is perfect when you want an appetizer that feels comforting and sharable.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese

Beef Quesadillas

A stack of quesadillas filled with cheese and steak served with a side of red salsa on a white plate. — Beef Quesadillas. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Quesadillas filled with beef and cheese make a simple appetizer that’s always a hit. They come together quickly on the stovetop and can be cut into small wedges for sharing. The crispy tortillas and melty filling make them satisfying without being too much before a meal. This recipe works well for casual get-togethers or game day spreads.
Get the Recipe: Beef Quesadillas

Crab Melt

This recipe combines crab with a creamy topping that’s broiled until bubbly. It’s quick to prepare and works as an open-faced appetizer or small bite. The richness of the crab makes it feel special while still being easy. This is a great choice for an appetizer that adds a seafood option to the table.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

A bowl of bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages served on a bed of fresh green herbs. — Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bite-sized sausages wrapped in bacon are simple but always popular. They bake quickly and can be served warm right from the oven. The smoky flavor and crisp texture make them easy to enjoy. This recipe is a solid pick for an appetizer that disappears fast at parties.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Pasta chips in a white bowl. — Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pasta chips cook up crunchy in the air fryer, making them a fun twist on a classic snack. They’re easy to season and pair nicely with dips. Since they come together fast, they’re perfect for unexpected guests. This recipe is a creative way to start off the meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this dip is a go-to for gatherings. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and stays warm for serving. The bold flavor pairs well with chips, bread, or vegetables. This recipe is perfect when you want an appetizer that feels hearty and shareable.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken tenders are easy to make in the air fryer and come out crispy every time. They cook quickly and can be paired with any dipping sauce. They’re kid-friendly but just as enjoyable for adults. This recipe is a reliable appetizer when you want something simple and filling.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Small salmon pieces wrapped in bacon are both flavorful and easy to make. They bake up quickly and make a protein-packed starter. The combination of rich fish with smoky bacon feels special but not complicated. This recipe works well as a seafood option for the appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Onion rings wrapped in bacon bake into a crispy, smoky bite. They don’t take long to prepare and can be served with dipping sauces. The mix of onion sweetness and bacon makes them stand out. This recipe is a fun option to bring variety to your appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Turkey Roll Ups

These roll ups use sliced turkey with cheese and fresh add-ins for a simple handheld snack. They take just minutes to prepare and can be served cold or at room temperature. Their easy prep makes them perfect for large groups. This recipe is a practical choice when you need a light appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Ups

Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Close-up of a pastry topped with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. — Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Puff pastry filled with cranberry and brie feels festive and elegant. They bake quickly and can be made ahead of time. The balance of creamy cheese and tart cranberry makes each bite stand out. This recipe is perfect for a starter that looks special without requiring much work.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Crab Rangoon Dip

A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip. — Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This dip has the same flavors as the classic appetizer but in an easy-to-share format. It’s creamy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. Pair it with wonton chips or crackers for dipping. This recipe is a smart choice when you want a seafood-based starter.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Jalapeño Popper Dip

A cast iron skillet filled with a cheesy dip. — Jalapeño Popper Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This dip combines cream cheese, peppers, and a crunchy topping for a warm appetizer. It can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving. The balance of creamy and spicy makes it a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is a strong pick for gatherings when you want a bold starter.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Dip

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Three grilled shrimp atop cucumber slices garnished with herbs on a white plate with a red checkered napkin partially in view. — Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp served on cucumber slices make a fresh, light appetizer. They don’t require much prep and are easy to serve on a platter. The mix of cool cucumber with shrimp gives a nice balance before a meal. This recipe is a great option for when you want something refreshing to start off with.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lumpia cooked in the air fryer turns out crispy without a lot of fuss. They’re simple to prepare ahead and reheat for serving. The small rolls make them perfect finger food for a crowd. This recipe is a practical way to add variety to your appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate. — Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Pineapple wrapped in bacon cooks up quickly with a mix of sweet and smoky flavor. The air fryer makes them crisp without much mess. They’re simple to serve and fun to eat in small bites. This recipe works well when you want something different on the appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Close-up of a garlic bread slice topped with melted cheese and herbs held over a plate. — Air Fryer Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Garlic bread in the air fryer is quick, crispy, and full of flavor. It takes just minutes to prepare and pairs with almost any meal. The buttery bread makes it a comforting starter for guests. This recipe is a dependable choice for keeping things simple.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background. — Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Smashed potatoes crisp up nicely in the air fryer and become even better with melted cheese. They’re hearty enough to keep guests full while waiting for the main meal. The prep is minimal, making them easy for weeknights or parties. This recipe is a good choice when you want something warm and filling at the start.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

A plate of jalapeño poppers on a table. — Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Jalapeño poppers come out crispy in the air fryer without a lot of mess. They’re easy to prep and can be made ahead for convenience. The mix of creamy filling and spicy pepper makes them stand out on any spread. This recipe is a fun way to bring bold flavor to your appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped in a small bowl of sauce, with a green leaf garnish on the side. — Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp wrapped in bacon is a quick appetizer that feels special without much effort. Both the air fryer and oven cook them evenly, making them flexible for any kitchen. The combination of smoky and savory flavors makes them a hit. This recipe is a strong pick when you want a seafood starter that cooks fast.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Three bacon-wrapped pieces of chicken on a white plate with a sprig of parsley and a red and white checkered cloth on the side. — Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken wrapped in bacon makes for a protein-packed appetizer. They bake quickly and are easy to serve in bite-sized portions. The smoky, savory flavor works well with dipping sauces. This recipe is a dependable choice when you want something hearty to begin the meal.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

Air Fryer Chicken Wings on white plate. — Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Frozen wings cook up crispy in the air fryer with little effort. They’re ready in under an hour and pair well with any sauce. Serving them as an appetizer makes the meal feel fun and casual. This recipe is perfect for when you need something easy to feed a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Close-up of a hand holding a seasoned chicken wing garnished with fresh herbs, with more pieces on a plate in the background. — Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These wings are coated in lemon pepper seasoning for a bold and simple appetizer. They bake or air fry quickly, making them great for busy nights. Their crisp skin and bright flavor make them stand out on a platter. This recipe is a reliable option for starting the meal with something flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Mango Salsa

A white bowl filled with diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper salsa is surrounded by tortilla chips. — Mango Salsa. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mango salsa brings a fresh, fruity flavor that pairs well with chips or grilled meats. It takes just minutes to make and can be chilled ahead of time. The mix of sweet and savory makes it refreshing at the start of a meal. This recipe is a light option when you want something simple and colorful.
Get the Recipe: Mango Salsa

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Panko shrimp with dipping sauce. — Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp coated in panko crumbs fry up golden and crunchy. They cook quickly and make a fun finger food for gatherings. The crisp texture with juicy shrimp inside keeps them popular at parties. This recipe is a strong choice for anyone looking to add seafood to their appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Ground Turkey Meatballs

Three glazed meatballs are arranged in a row on a white plate, each garnished with a stick and a small sprig of parsley. A red checkered cloth and some fresh parsley are in the background. — Ground Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Meatballs made with ground turkey are simple, versatile, and easy to prepare ahead. They bake quickly and can be served with sauces for dipping. Their small size makes them perfect as finger food. This recipe is a practical way to start the meal with something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Meatballs

Bang Bang Shrimp

Fried shrimp on a plate next to a bowl of sauce. — Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp coated in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce make for a flavorful appetizer. They cook quickly and can be served as finger food or over lettuce. The balance of crunchy coating and sauce makes them a crowd favorite. This recipe is a fun way to add shrimp to your starters.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Chicken Lollipops

A close-up of a hand holding a crispy breaded chicken drumstick, with more drumsticks on a white plate in the background. — Chicken Lollipops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken lollipops are a playful appetizer that’s easy to hold and dip. They bake or fry quickly and come out with a crisp exterior. Their small size makes them ideal for sharing. This recipe is a strong pick for gatherings where finger food works best.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

Hawaiian Roll Sliders

A close-up image of a platter of ham and cheese slider sandwiches sprinkled with poppy seeds and garnished with chopped herbs. — Hawaiian Roll Sliders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These sliders are filled with savory ingredients and baked together on soft rolls. They can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving. Their pull-apart style makes them great for groups. This recipe is an easy way to make an appetizer that feels filling but still light enough before a meal.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Roll Sliders