Before the turkey comes out of the oven and the sides hit the table, there’s that magical window of time when everyone’s gathered, chatting, and nibbling. That’s where Thanksgiving appetizers come in, they set the tone for the whole feast.
Here are my top Thanksgiving appetizer picks to keep guests happy while the main course finishes in the oven.
1. Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions
Warm, gooey, and just a little indulgent, baked brie is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The caramelized onions add a sweet-savory depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese.
I like serving it with toasted baguette slices or apple wedges for a little crunch. It’s one of those dishes that makes people stop talking mid-sentence when they take their first bite.
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2. Shrimp Cocktail
Classic, simple, and elegant. Chilled shrimp paired with zesty cocktail sauce never goes out of style. It’s fresh, bright, and a great make-ahead appetizer—just chill the shrimp and sauce until you’re ready to serve.
Add a little horseradish or lemon zest to the sauce for an extra kick. It’s perfect for balancing out all the heavier Thanksgiving dishes.
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3. Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
These little bites are rich, garlicky, and melt-in-your-mouth good. The mushrooms are filled with a creamy blend of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs that turns golden and bubbly in the oven.
I suggest using cremini mushrooms. They hold their shape and soak up all that flavor. They’re always gone in minutes, so make more than you think you’ll need.
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4. Deviled Eggs
A true classic that feels just right at any holiday gathering. Creamy yolks mixed with mustard, mayo, and a dash of paprika—it’s simple, nostalgic, and totally satisfying. You can make them ahead, which saves time on the big day.
Sometimes I add a bit of relish or sriracha to switch things up, depending on my mood. They’re easy to eat, easy to love, and always welcome on the table.
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5. Spinach Artichoke Dip
Rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this dip never fails to disappear fast. The combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese is irresistible, especially when baked until golden and bubbly.
You can serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or even warm bread. Take things up a notch by adding some roasted garlic. It’s comforting, familiar, and absolutely delicious.
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6. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Crispy bacon meets tender asparagus in one irresistible bite. The smoky saltiness of the bacon perfectly complements the slight crunch of the asparagus. It’s simple to make but looks elegant on a platter.
I like brushing the bundles with a bit of maple syrup before baking for that sweet-savory contrast. It’s the kind of appetizer that makes you look like you’ve done way more work than you actually have.
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7. Pigs in a Blanket
An absolute party favorite. Mini sausages wrapped in buttery pastry and baked until golden—it doesn’t get much easier or more crowd-pleasing than this.
You can serve them with mustard, honey dip, or a spicy ketchup for variety. They’re fun, nostalgic, and totally addictive.
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8. Smoked Salmon Board
If you want something light yet elegant, a smoked salmon board is the way to go. Lay out smoked salmon slices with cream cheese, capers, red onions, and lemon wedges—it’s interactive and perfect for grazing.
Add bagel crisps or cucumber slices for scooping. I love this one because guests can build their own little bites. It’s easy, fresh, and sophisticated without being fussy.
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9. Jalapeño Poppers
Crispy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of heat—jalapeño poppers are always a hit. The peppers are filled with cream cheese and cheddar, then baked or air-fried until perfectly melty inside.
You can also mix in chopped bacon for extra flavor, though they’re great on their own. The creamy filling tempers the spice beautifully. It’s the perfect appetizer for anyone who loves a little kick.
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10. Caprese Skewers
Fresh, colorful, and a nice contrast to all the rich Thanksgiving dishes. Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze.
I like adding a touch of salt and pepper just before serving to make the flavors pop. They’re easy to assemble ahead of time and make your table instantly brighter.
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The Perfect Beginning to Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving appetizers are the warm-up act to the main event. They bring people together, start conversations, and set the mood before the feast even begins.
I’ve always believed that every great meal begins with something to nibble on while laughter fills the room.
So go ahead and pick a few, prep them early. Kick off your Thanksgiving feast in style.
Featured image credit: @medora_hk
