27 Crowd-Pleasing Thanksgiving Appetizer Ideas

Are you on the hunt for the perfect appetizer to kick off your Thanksgiving feast this year? Our curated delicious appetizer ideas will make sure your guests are satisfied while they wait for the main course!

Thanksgiving is all about coming together to share a delicious meal, but who says you have to wait until the turkey is carved to start enjoying the feast?

This year, why not treat yourself and your family to some tasty appetizers that kick off the holiday right?

Appetizers are the perfect way to keep everyone satisfied while the main meal comes together. They give you a chance to showcase some extra creativity in the kitchen.

In this post, we’ve gathered 27 crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving appetizer ideas that will make your guests’ mouths water from the moment they walk in the door.

Whether you’re into cheesy dips, bite-sized treats, or savory snacks with a seasonal twist, there’s something here for everyone.

These appetizers are easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to keep the holiday spirit high before the main event.

1. Apple Cheddar Bundles

PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

The sweet apples and sharp cheddar wrapped in buttery pastry make for the perfect sweet-savory bite. A comforting fall flavor combo that’s ideal for Thanksgiving.

Get the Apple Cheddar Bundles recipe.

2. Loaded Cheesy Corn Bites

PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: TAYLOR ANN SPENCER

These are packed with cheese and corn, delivering a rich, creamy snack that’s easy to pop in your mouth. They’re perfect for kicking off your feast with a little indulgence.

3. Everything Flatbread with Smoked Salmon

PHOTO: Mike Garten

A fresh and sophisticated option, this flatbread combines savory smoked salmon with the classic “everything” bagel seasoning. It’s a light bite to balance out heavier holiday dishes.

Get the Everything Flatbread with Smoked Salmon recipe.

4. Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Melty brie and tart cranberry sauce wrapped in bread make for a shareable appetizer that’s both festive and satisfying. It’s the perfect warm starter for a chilly Thanksgiving day.

Get the Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread recipe.

5. Whipped Feta Roasted Potatoes

PHOTO: ANDREW BUI; FOOD STYLING: SPENCER RICHARDS

Creamy whipped feta pairs beautifully with crispy roasted potatoes, creating a rich and tangy side. It’s a savory bite that’s hard to resist.

Get the Whipped Feta Roasted Potatoes recipe.

6. Cranberry Brie Bites

PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

These little bites are a sweet, tart, and cheesy delight wrapped in puff pastry. They’re ideal for mingling and enjoying with a glass of wine before the big meal.

Get the Cranberry Brie Bites recipe.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms

PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: BARRETT WASHBURNE

These classic, savory bites are filled with a cheesy mixture that complements the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. A simple yet elegant appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings.

Get the Stuffed Mushrooms recipe.

8. Potatoes Au Gratin Stacks

PHOTO: DOAA ELKADY; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Individually stacked and baked with layers of creamy cheese, these mini gratins are a fun twist on a comfort food classic. They’re crispy, cheesy, and completely addictive.

Get the Potato Gratin Stacks recipe.

9. Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip

PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS

This dip combines tangy cranberry sauce with creamy feta for a vibrant and flavorful spread. It’s a unique twist that adds a fresh note to your appetizer table.

Get the Cranberry Whipped Feta Dip recipe.

10. Caprese Bites

PHOTO: ROCKY LUTEN; FOOD STYLING: MAKINZE GORE

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil skewers offer a fresh and simple appetizer with classic flavors. They’re light and refreshing, making them a great counterpoint to richer dishes.

Get the Caprese Bites recipe.

11. Skordalia

PHOTO: Emily Hlavac Green

This Greek potato and garlic dip is creamy and packs a punch of flavor. It’s a unique addition to your Thanksgiving spread, perfect for dipping veggies or bread.

Get the Skordalia recipe.

12. Thanksgiving Ring

PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: ADRIENNE ANDERSON

This pastry ring is packed with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for a bite-sized version of Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a fun way to get all the holiday flavors in one delicious bite.

Get the Thanksgiving Ring recipe.

13. Beef Empanadas

PHOTO: Mike Garten

These flaky pastry pockets filled with savory beef make for a hearty and satisfying appetizer. They’re easy to hold, perfect for mingling and enjoying.

Get the Beef Empanadas recipe.

14. Fall Mushroom Pizza

PHOTO: Mike Garten

Topped with a medley of mushrooms, cheese, and herbs, this pizza is a great way to showcase the earthy flavors of fall. It’s a sophisticated yet comforting appetizer option.

Get the Fall Mushroom Pizza recipe.

15. Maple-Cranberry Baked Brie

PHOTO: JOSEPH DE LEO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

Baked brie with a sweet maple and cranberry topping creates a rich, melty, and festive dish. It’s a classic appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.