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Home » Appetizers

37 Thanksgiving Appetizers That’ll Make You Forget About the Turkey

Published: Nov 1, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving appetizers are where the real fun starts—before anyone even thinks about carving the turkey. These are the bites that grab your attention, keep people hanging around the table, and make you go back for seconds without hesitation. They’re great for keeping things easy but still impressive, and perfect for setting the tone of the whole meal. If you want your guests talking long before dinner hits the table, these recipes will absolutely do the trick.

A close-up image of stuffed baked potatoes.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms

An overhead image of vegetarian stuffed mushrooms on a serving late.
Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetarian stuffed mushrooms with walnuts, cranberries, and creamy cheese make for a rich and memorable bite. They look impressive yet are easy to prepare, making them a natural choice for Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms

Corn Nuggets

A bowl filled with golden, crispy corn nuggets.
Corn Nuggets. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy corn nuggets with a golden crust and cheesy center are a quick snack that works any way you cook them. Their versatility and easy appeal make them a reliable Thanksgiving appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Corn Nuggets

Vegan Cabbage Fritters

An overhead image of cooked cabbage fritters in a pan.
Vegan Cabbage Fritters. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cabbage and onion fritters fry up crisp and golden, bringing a bit of crunch to the table. Their comforting flavor and warmth fit right in with the cozy atmosphere of Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cabbage Fritters

Stuffed Baked Potatoes

A close-up image of stuffed baked potatoes.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Stuffed baked potatoes filled with mushrooms, spinach, and cheddar come together in just 30 minutes. Their hearty, familiar taste makes them a dependable favorite among Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Samosa Chaat

Straight view of samosa chaat served in a white bowl and is topped with cilantro, red onions, and sev. On the sides is a samosa and a cup of drink.
Samosa Chaat. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Samosa chaat layers samosas, chickpeas, yogurt, and chutneys for a dish bursting with texture. It’s a lively and colorful way to round out a Thanksgiving appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Samosa Chaat

Swirl Garlic Bread

Close-up image of sliced swirl garlic bread on a cutting board.
Swirl Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Swirl garlic bread combines aromatic garlic and herbs in a soft, eye-catching loaf that’s easy to make from scratch. Its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a smart addition to a Thanksgiving appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Swirl Garlic Bread

The Best Baked Feta

An image of the best baked feta.
The Best Baked Feta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Baked feta with olives, herbs, and olive oil brings Mediterranean character to the table. Its creamy texture and easy serving style make it a great Thanksgiving appetizer centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: The Best Baked Feta

Homemade Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread on a wooden board.
Homemade Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Homemade garlic bread is buttery, fragrant, and simple to prepare. Served on its own or beside other dishes, it fits effortlessly among classic Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Garlic Bread

Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

A plate of Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus.
Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Butternut squash hummus with cranberries, pomegranates, and rosemary feels both festive and flavorful. It’s a cheerful addition to Thanksgiving appetizers that’s simple to prepare and serve.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butternut Squash Hummus

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

A hand holding a slice of cucumber topped with taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cream cheese taco dip mixes rich texture with bold seasoning for a quick appetizer that’s ready in 15 minutes. It’s a lively addition to any Thanksgiving spread that keeps guests reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Baked Artichoke Dip

Top view of Baked Artichoke Dip on a wooden board.
Baked Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Baked artichoke dip comes together in minutes and pairs well with baguette slices or crackers. Its creamy texture and crowd-friendly nature make it a go-to choice for Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Baked Artichoke Dip

Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

A close-up image of a Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread on a plate.
Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Cheesy garlic pull-apart bread bakes up golden and gooey in half an hour. It’s a crowd favorite that fits seamlessly among Thanksgiving appetizers and hearty sides.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Air Fryer Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Pigs in a Blanket

Five Air Fryer Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Pigs in a Blanket on a wooden board.
Air Fryer Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Bacon jalapeño cheese pigs in a blanket pack spice and comfort into bite-sized portions. Their fun presentation and quick prep make them a playful addition to Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Pigs in a Blanket

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Healthy Brussels sprouts and potato latkes.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crispy latkes made with potatoes and Brussels sprouts are served with avocado-lemon crema. Their crunch and flavor make them a welcome part of Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Beet Salad with Feta

An image of Beet Salad with Feta.
Beet Salad with Feta. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Beet salad with feta cheese brings freshness and color to the table. Easy to assemble and light, it pairs smoothly with other Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad with Feta

Brie Cranberry Bites Appetizer

Close-up image of Brie Cranberry Bites Appetizer.
Brie Cranberry Bites Appetizer. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Brie cranberry bites wrapped in puff pastry combine creamy and sweet in every flaky piece. Their polished look and easy serving style make them a natural highlight of Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Brie Cranberry Bites Appetizer

Smashed White Bean and Kale Quesadillas

Smashed white bean quesadillas on a cutting board.
Smashed White Bean and Kale Quesadillas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

White bean and kale quesadillas with BBQ dip create a satisfying plant-based option. They’re easy to serve and bring a creative edge to Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Smashed White Bean and Kale Quesadillas

Air Fryer Nachos

A close-up imag of loaded nachos topped with melted cheese, avocado chunks, black beans, diced tomatoes, green onions, and dollops of sour cream.
Air Fryer Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer nachos come together in under 10 minutes with plenty of toppings. Their shareable format and familiar comfort make them right at home among Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Nachos

Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip with Tart Cherry Compote

Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip with Tart Cherry Compote. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy butternut squash dip with goat cheese and a cherry compote topping makes an eye-catching starter. Served with pita chips, it adds a festive touch to Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Dip with Tart Cherry Compote

Instant Pot Queso

An image of queso in a bowl with nacho chips on the side and an instant pot on the back.
Instant Pot Queso. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot queso delivers creamy, bold flavor in only 5 minutes. Quick, reliable, and full of personality, it makes an effortless Thanksgiving appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Queso

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A cranberry brie crescent ring pairs tart fruit with rich cheese in a golden pastry ring. Its presentation and ease make it a centerpiece-worthy Thanksgiving appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring

Roasted Baby Eggplants with Goat Cheese Stuffing

Roasted Baby Eggplants with Goat Cheese Stuffing. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted baby eggplants stuffed with goat cheese and finished with honey and balsamic have a rich balance of flavors. They add a thoughtful, savory-sweet element to Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Baby Eggplants with Goat Cheese Stuffing

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Air fryer vegan buffalo cauliflower bites in a bowl with dip nearby, placed under a wooden board.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan buffalo cauliflower wings bring heat and crunch without much effort, whether baked or air-fried. Their shareable nature and bold taste make them an energetic part of a Thanksgiving appetizer lineup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Best Roasted Potato Salad

Best Roasted Potato Salad. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Roasted potato salad with herbs, pistachios, and a flavorful dressing works beautifully as a starter. Its fresh ingredients and hearty texture bring balance to a Thanksgiving appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Best Roasted Potato Salad

Cream Cheese Corn Dip

An image of cream cheese corn dip in a baking dish with a spoon full of the dip rests on top.
Cream Cheese Corn Dip. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cream cheese corn dip bakes into a warm, bubbling dish full of sweet corn and peppers. Its cozy character makes it a dependable crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Corn Dip

Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed With Cream Cheese

Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed With Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon pickle boats filled with cream cheese bring tang and crunch in one bite. Their fun presentation makes them a playful part of a Thanksgiving appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Pickle Boats Stuffed With Cream Cheese

Air Fryer Pull Apart Jalapeño Popper Rolls

Air Fryer Pull Apart Jalapeño Popper Rolls. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Jalapeño popper pull-apart rolls from the air fryer combine cheese, spice, and soft dough in shareable portions. They’re quick to prepare and add fun variety to Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pull Apart Jalapeño Popper Rolls

Easy Air Fryer Samosas

An image of air fryer samosas on a plate that's ready to be served.
Easy Air Fryer Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer samosas make it easy to enjoy crisp, golden pastries without deep frying. Their familiar comfort and festive flavor make them a natural part of any Thanksgiving appetizer menu.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Samosas

Easy Pigs in a Blanket

Easy Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pigs in a Blanket combine crisp pastry with savory filling for a fun and nostalgic snack. Their easy preparation and wide appeal make them a hit at any Thanksgiving gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pigs in a Blanket

Veggie Pinwheels

An image of veggie pinwheels on a serving plate.
Veggie Pinwheels. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Veggie pinwheels roll crisp vegetables with hummus into colorful, bite-sized snacks. They add a light and refreshing contrast to heavier Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pinwheels

Balsamic Pickled Shiitake Crostini

Balsamic Pickled Shiitake Crostini. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shiitake mushroom crostini with balsamic pickling and pesto ricotta balance tangy and creamy elements. Their sophisticated taste and small size make them perfect for Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Pickled Shiitake Crostini

Spicy Three Cheese Dip

A horizontal image of queso diablo in a serving bowl.
Spicy Three Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy cheese dip, or Queso Diablo, blends roasted peppers and creamy cheese into a bold, quick dip. Ready in just 20 minutes, it brings energy and flavor to Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Three Cheese Dip

Pumpkin Goat Cheese Dip with Caramelized Onions

Pumpkin Goat Cheese Dip with Caramelized Onions. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pumpkin goat cheese dip with caramelized onions works either warm or cold, keeping prep flexible. It pairs well with crackers or vegetables, making it a versatile Thanksgiving appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Goat Cheese Dip with Caramelized Onions

Avocado Deviled Eggs

A close up image of avocado deviled eggs.
Avocado Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Avocado deviled eggs turn the classic into something smooth and flavorful with minimal effort. They’re simple to make ahead and bring a fresh touch to a Thanksgiving appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Deviled Eggs

Steak and Shiitake Mushroom Bruschetta Crostini Appetizers

Steak and Shiitake Mushroom Bruschetta Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Steak and shiitake mushroom bruschetta on toasted bread create flavorful, refined bites. Served as finger food, they bring a touch of elegance to Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Steak and Shiitake Mushroom Bruschetta Crostini Appetizers

Korean Corn Cheese

An image of Korean corn cheese served in a cast iron skillet.
Korean Corn Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Korean corn cheese combines mozzarella, sweet corn, and a hint of maple in minutes. Its melty comfort and quick preparation fit naturally into Thanksgiving appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Cheese

Delicata Squash Flatbread with Pecans, Cherries and Ricotta

Delicata Squash Flatbread with Pecans, Cherries and Ricotta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Delicata squash flatbread with pecans, dried cherries, ricotta, and sage brings a seasonal touch. Its colors and flavors fit perfectly into the Thanksgiving appetizer lineup.
Get the Recipe: Delicata Squash Flatbread with Pecans, Cherries and Ricotta

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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