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Home » Appetizers

29 Thanksgiving Appetizers to Enjoy While the Turkey Cooks

Published: Oct 26, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving appetizers are the perfect way to kick off the holiday and keep everyone happy while the main course comes together. These recipes are designed to be crowd-pleasers, packed with flavors that feel right at home on a Thanksgiving spread. They’re quick to make, easy to share, and great for nibbling as you wait for that turkey. From light bites to heartier snacks, these appetizers give everyone something to enjoy while keeping the conversation—and the snacks—flowing. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or an intimate meal, these Thanksgiving appetizers are just what you need to start the holiday on a high note.

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.

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 is a straightforward and quick recipe that combines garlic and herbs for a visually stunning loaf. This Thanksgiving appetizer is perfect for keeping everyone satisfied while the turkey cooks.
Get the Recipe: Swirl Garlic Bread

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 made with just six simple pantry ingredients are a healthy Indian treat that’s sure to impress. As a Thanksgiving appetizer, their simplicity and flavor make them a great addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Baked Samosas

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.

These crispy vegan buffalo cauliflower bites deliver a spicy kick and a satisfying crunch. They are a crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving appetizer that ensures guests have something flavorful while waiting for the main meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

An overhead image of air fried hassel back potatoes on a plate with parsley on top and a fork and knife on the right side.
Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Hasselback potatoes, cooked in an air fryer or oven, are a crispy delight ready in under an hour. This easy-to-prepare Thanksgiving appetizer is perfect for adding variety to your fall gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes

Avocado Deviled Eggs

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

Avocado deviled eggs bring a creamy twist to a classic dish that everyone loves. This easy Thanksgiving appetizer allows guests to enjoy a flavorful bite while the turkey is cooking.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Deviled Eggs

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 blends creamy texture and bold flavors in just 5 minutes. As a quick and delicious Thanksgiving appetizer, it’s a hit for gatherings, ensuring everyone enjoys a tasty dip before the main feast.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Queso

Sweet Potato Skins

A horizontal image of baked sweet potato skins.
Sweet Potato Skins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Loaded sweet potato skins feature creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors topped with fresh parsley. Ready in just an hour, they make an excellent Thanksgiving appetizer that will keep guests happily munching.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Skins

Guacamole Salsa

A glass jar filled with guacamole salsa.
Guacamole Salsa. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Guacamole salsa offers the best of both worlds by combining salsa verde with guacamole for a creamy, tangy dip. This Thanksgiving appetizer is a refreshing option that complements your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Salsa

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

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

Crispy latkes made with grated potatoes and shaved Brussels sprouts are a delightful addition to any brunch table. Paired with an avocado-lemon crema, they create a delicious Thanksgiving appetizer perfect for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Brussels Sprouts Latkes

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.

The cranberry brie crescent ring is not only eye-catching but also a festive choice for your holiday table. Its impressive appearance makes it a standout Thanksgiving appetizer that will delight your guests.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cranberry Brie Crescent Ring with Spiked Cranberry 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 are easy to prepare and bake in just 30 minutes. This hearty Thanksgiving appetizer is perfect for game day or holiday gatherings, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy while they wait.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese

Marinated Brussels Sprouts

Marinated brussels sprouts are shown on a white plate with a spoon and a dark red linen in the background.
Marinated Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Marinated Brussels sprouts with shallot, rosemary, and honey vinaigrette add a savory touch to your appetizer selection. This versatile Thanksgiving appetizer can be served as either a starter or a side, enhancing your autumn spread.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Brussels Sprouts

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 introduces festive flavors that will brighten your Thanksgiving table. With its seasonal ingredients, this fun appetizer stands out, engaging guests in the spirit of the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Herb Cheese Ball

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

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

Bacon-wrapped water chestnuts combine crispy bacon with tender chestnuts for a savory bite. This satisfying Thanksgiving appetizer is perfect for casual gatherings, ensuring your guests have a tasty option.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Sweet Potato Hummus

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

Sweet potato hummus brings a vibrant twist to a classic dip, making it a standout choice for Thanksgiving appetizers. Its natural sweetness enhances the fall event, guaranteeing guests enjoy every flavorful bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus

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 notes, offering a crunchy snack for movie nights or game days. This delicious Thanksgiving appetizer is perfect for gatherings, providing a tasty treat everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Texas Glazed Pecans

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 and served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce, creating a memorable fall appetizer. Easy to prepare, they’re a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fritters with Sweet & Spicy Sauce

Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

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

Sausage stuffed mushrooms can be made ahead and baked in just 30 minutes. This flavorful Thanksgiving appetizer allows for stress-free hosting, ensuring your guests appreciate the rich tastes.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Buffalo Fries

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

Oven-baked buffalo fries tossed in zesty buffalo sauce make for a flavorful snack. They are a great choice for your Thanksgiving appetizers, sure to keep everyone pleased during the game.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Fries

Pumpkin Spice Churros

Pumpkin spice churros on a wooden serving board with a bowl of butter off to the right side.
Pumpkin Spice Churros. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Pumpkin spice churros, made in an air fryer or oven, are crispy and sweet. Their spiced flavor adds excitement to your Thanksgiving dessert spread, ensuring guests will rave about this delightful treat.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Churros

Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Close-up image of air fryer roasted pumpkin seeds in a bowl.
Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Air fryer roasted pumpkin seeds provide a crunchy snack that’s simple to prepare. This nutritious option works well for movie marathons or football games, making them a great Thanksgiving appetizer for everyone to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Halloumi Fries

Halloumi fries with dill dip on a plate.
Halloumi Fries. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Oven-baked Halloumi fries are seasoned for flavor and ready in just 25 minutes. Their crispy texture makes them a fantastic Thanksgiving appetizer, perfect for potlucks or quick weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Halloumi Fries

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.

Flaky pastry pockets filled with pumpkin and caramelized onions make for a charming addition to your Thanksgiving table. Their comforting flavors enhance your holiday appetizer lineup, appealing to guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion and Pumpkin Puff Pastry Pockets

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

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

Baked jalapeño poppers offer a crispy, creamy snack with just the right amount of heat. Their straightforward preparation makes them a go-to Thanksgiving appetizer that guests will love at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Easy Caprese Skewers

A plate of easy caprese skewers.
Easy Caprese Skewers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Caprese skewers are bursting with color and flavor, making them a lively addition to your appetizer spread. Their light nature ensures they are a popular Thanksgiving appetizer, providing a fresh option while waiting for the turkey.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Skewers

Fried Cheese Balls

Keto Fried Cheese Balls with parsley.
Fried Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Homemade fried cheese balls are perfect for game nights, featuring crispy cheddar bites made from just a few ingredients. Their ease of preparation makes them a favorite Thanksgiving appetizer, ensuring everyone enjoys a tasty treat.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cheese Balls

Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill.
Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smashed potatoes have a golden crunch and fluffy interior that can be spiced up or topped with cheese. They enhance any Thanksgiving potluck spread, providing guests with a delightful variety of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Smashed Potatoes

Brie Cranberry Bites

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

Brie cranberry bites combine the creaminess of brie cheese with the sweet flavor of cranberry sauce in puff pastry. This festive Thanksgiving appetizer is perfect for holiday celebrations, offering a deliciously simple option for guests.
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 glazed with maple syrup create a savory and sweet bite. Serve this flavorful Thanksgiving appetizer at any gathering, ensuring guests enjoy a delicious option while they wait for the feast.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

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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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