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Home » Appetizers

24 Thanksgiving Appetizers You’ve Never Thought of Before

Published: Nov 23, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving appetizers set the tone for the feast, and this year, it’s time to shake things up with fresh ideas that still feel like fall. These recipes are seasonal and a little unexpected—perfect for surprising your guests while keeping it all grounded in flavors everyone loves. Whether you’re keeping things casual or making everything from scratch, these appetizers are great for starting the day with something memorable and packed with personality. You won’t find the same old options here, so get ready to kick off Thanksgiving in a way your friends and family won’t forget.

Close-up image of sweet potato skins on a wooden board.
Sweet Potato Skins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

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 garlic and herbs to create a visually appealing loaf that’s ready in no time. This Thanksgiving appetizer is an excellent way to keep guests happy while the rest of the meal comes together.
Get the Recipe: Swirl Garlic Bread

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Close-up image of buffalo cauliflower in a bowl.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These crispy vegan buffalo cauliflower bites pack a spicy punch and a satisfying crunch that guests will enjoy. A crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving appetizer, they are perfect for those who love bold flavors while waiting for the feast.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Close-up of an overhead image of hasselback potatoes on a plate.
Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Hasselback potatoes, cooked in an air fryer or oven, feature crispy edges and tender centers that are irresistible. This Thanksgiving appetizer is quick to prepare and adds variety and texture to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Instant Pot Queso

Close-up image of instant pot queso in a bowl.
Instant Pot Queso. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Instant Pot Queso combines creamy cheese and bold spices into a dip that’s ready in minutes. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a convenient option to satisfy snack cravings before the main course.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Queso

Sweet Potato Skins

Close-up image of sweet potato skins on a wooden board.
Sweet Potato Skins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Loaded sweet potato skins are topped with cheese, herbs, and savory ingredients for a satisfying bite. A Thanksgiving appetizer like this adds hearty, fall-inspired flavors to your holiday lineup.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Skins

Stuffed Mushrooms

Close-up image of vegetarian stuffed mushrooms.
Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetarian stuffed mushrooms feature a flavorful mix of walnuts, cranberries, and cheese baked into tender mushroom caps. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a simple yet impressive option that adds variety to your table.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Avocado Deviled Eggs

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

Avocado deviled eggs bring a fresh and creamy twist to the classic appetizer, making them an easy crowd-pleaser. This Thanksgiving appetizer is perfect for keeping guests entertained while the turkey roasts.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Deviled Eggs

Baked Samosas

Top view image of healthy samosas on a black plate with additional samosas on a cooling rack.
Baked Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked samosas with their crisp shells and spiced fillings are a flavorful nod to global cuisine. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a delicious addition to your spread and a sure way to surprise your guests.
Get the Recipe: Baked Samosas

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

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

Crispy Brussels sprouts latkes are made with grated potatoes and shaved Brussels sprouts for a seasonal take on a classic. Paired with avocado-lemon crema, this Thanksgiving appetizer is a creative and memorable choice.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

Air Fryer Puff Pastry Cheese Twists

Close-up image of air fryer puff pastry cheese twists.
Air Fryer Puff Pastry Cheese Twists. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Parmesan and mozzarella air fryer puff pastry cheese twists are flaky, cheesy, and easy to prepare. This Thanksgiving appetizer is great for entertaining, giving your guests a snack they’ll love with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Puff Pastry Cheese Twists

Texas Glazed Pecans

An overhead image of a small dish of texas glazed pecans.
Texas Glazed Pecans. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Texas-glazed pecans mix sweet, salty, and spicy flavors for a snack that’s perfect for gatherings. As a Thanksgiving appetizer, they bring a festive crunch to the table and pair well with other holiday favorites.
Get the Recipe: Texas Glazed Pecans

Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring with Spiked Cranberry Sauce

Close-up imagge of piineapple cranberry brie crescent ring with spiked cranbberry sauce.
Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring with Spiked Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Cranberry brie crescent ring combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with creamy brie in a flaky pastry. This Thanksgiving appetizer is both festive and eye-catching, making it a standout on your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring with Spiked Cranberry Sauce

Caramelized Onion and Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets

A plate of Autumnal Caramelized Onion & Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets.
Caramelized Onion and Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Pumpkin and caramelized onion puff pastry pockets offer a combination of tender pumpkin and savory onions in a flaky shell. These Thanksgiving appetizers bring comforting fall flavors to your spread and are easy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion and Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets

Maple Roasted Air Fryer Carrots

Close-up of maple roasted air fryer carrots on a dish.
Maple Roasted Air Fryer Carrots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Maple roasted air fryer carrots are glazed with maple syrup and spices for a sweet and savory flavor. As a Thanksgiving appetizer, they’re a great way to offer a healthier yet flavorful option to your guests.
Get the Recipe: Maple Roasted Air Fryer Carrots

Pumpkin Herb Cheese Ball

Close-up imageof pumpkin herb cheeseball with cookies and a knife.
Pumpkin Herb Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pumpkin herb cheese ball combines festive flavors with a creamy texture and a fun presentation. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a great centerpiece for your snack table, keeping everyone engaged in the holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Herb Cheese Ball

Buffalo Fries

Overhead image of buffalo fries in a casserole.
Buffalo Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Oven-baked buffalo fries are tossed in a tangy sauce that’s sure to please spice lovers. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a fun and bold choice to keep guests entertained during the gathering.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Fries

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts on a plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts pair crunchy chestnuts with crispy bacon for a savory bite that’s hard to resist. This Thanksgiving appetizer adds a touch of indulgence to your menu while keeping preparation simple.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms on a serving tray.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage stuffed mushrooms are loaded with a savory filling and bake in just 30 minutes. A classic Thanksgiving appetizer, they’re easy to make ahead and serve fresh to your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Sweet Potato Fritters with Sweet & Spicy Sauce

A serving basket of sweet potato fritters next to a bowl of dipping sauce and a single serving on a plate.
Sweet Potato Fritters with Sweet & Spicy Sauce. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Sweet potato fritters are crispy on the outside and soft inside, paired with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce. This Thanksgiving appetizer offers an autumnal flavor that’s perfect for your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fritters with Sweet & Spicy Sauce

Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Sausage balls on a plate with a side of dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sausage balls with cream cheese blend savory sausage and creamy cheese into bite-sized treats that are ready quickly. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a reliable choice for keeping everyone happy while the turkey finishes cooking.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Brie Cranberry Bites

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

Brie cranberry bites combine soft brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce in a flaky puff pastry shell. This Thanksgiving appetizer brings festive flavors to your table in an easy-to-eat format guests will love.
Get the Recipe: Brie Cranberry Bites

Maple Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Close-up image of maple bacon wraoped brussel sprouts with a frok on a plate.
Maple Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts are coated with maple syrup for a balance of savory and sweet in every bite. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a fantastic way to introduce rich flavors to your holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Freshly made jalapeño poppers on a plate.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Baked jalapeño poppers deliver a crispy, cheesy bite with a touch of heat, making them an excellent holiday snack. This Thanksgiving appetizer is easy to prepare and will keep your guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Sweet Potato Hummus

Overhead of sweet potato hummus.
Sweet Potato Hummus. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Sweet potato hummus takes a classic dip and adds a touch of fall-inspired sweetness. This Thanksgiving appetizer pairs beautifully with fresh veggies or crackers, adding a pop of color and flavor to your table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus

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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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