Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and of course, delicious food. While the turkey may be the star of the show, don’t overlook the importance of a fantastic starter dish to kick off your feast. From savory soups to crispy crostini, these appetizers will effectively set the tone for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large party, our collection of 27 top Thanksgiving starter ideas has something for everyone. Get ready to impress your guests with these mouth-watering dishes that are sure to become new holiday favorites. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect way to begin your Thanksgiving celebration!
1
of 27
Chef John’s Roasted Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Chef John’s roasted butternut squash soup is a comforting, creamy dish. Cubed squash, onion, garlic are tossed with warm spices then roasted until tender. Puree roasted veggies, simmer with broth, finish with cream – that’s it! Garnish bowls with crunchy pumpkin seeds if you like. This easy recipe yields a silky smooth, flavorful soup that’ll warm you from the inside out.
2
of 27
Easy Baked Cranberry Brie Bites Recipe
Whip up these easy, elegant baked cranberry brie bites for your next Thanksgiving gathering! Preheat oven to 400°F, fill mini fillo shells with brie, bake 5-7 minutes until melted. Simmer cranberries, red wine, water, sugar until berries pop; spoon sauce into shells. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Impress guests with this simple yet sophisticated appetizer that bursts with flavor – perfect for holiday parties.
3
of 27
Crab and Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
This recipe for crab and lobster stuffed mushrooms combines succulent seafood, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, butter, and parsley. Mushroom caps are generously filled with this flavorful mixture, then baked until tender and golden brown. Chopped mushroom stems sprinkled on top add extra flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress guests at your next gathering. Serve hot for best results!
4
of 27
Classic and Easy Deviled Eggs Recipe
Slice hard-boiled eggs lengthwise, scoop out yolks. Mash ’em with mayo, vinegar, mustard, salt, pepper – whisk till smooth. Spoon mixture into whites using a pastry bag. Sprinkle green onions and paprika on top for extra zing. Voila! Creamy, tangy deviled eggs that’ll disappear faster than you can say “appetizer.” Whip up a batch for your next Thanksgiving party – they’re sure to impress!
5
of 27
Savory Pumpkin Hummus Recipe
This savory pumpkin hummus recipe combines pumpkin puree, chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Blend ’til smooth, season to taste, then transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with chopped parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds if you’d like. Serve with pita bread, chips, or veggies for dippin’. A perfect fall appetizer or snack!
6
of 27
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
This spinach artichoke dip recipe uses thawed spinach, chopped artichokes, mozzarella, Parmesan, sour cream, mayo and minced garlic. Mix ingredients in a bowl, transfer to baking dish, then bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Serve hot with crackers, chips or veggies – perfect appetizer or snack that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
7
of 27
Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe
Stuff pitted dates with almonds or cheese, wrap in bacon, brush with spicy maple syrup. Bake at 425°F for 20-24 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon crisps up. Perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy flavors in each bite-sized morsel – guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Toothpicks keep everything tidy. Foil-lined baking sheet makes cleanup a breeze. Impress guests with this easy yet elegant appetizer recipe.
8
of 27
Shrimp Cocktail Recipe
Shrimp cocktail’s a cinch with this recipe! Boil water, lemon, onion, garlic, tarragon, peppercorns and bay leaf. Prepare ice water bath. Cook shrimp for two minutes, then chill ’em in the ice water five minutes. Serve with cocktail sauce, lemon wedges – voila! Impress your guests without breaking a sweat. Perfect appetizer or light meal that’s sure to please. Give it a whirl next time you’re playing host on Thanksgiving.
9
of 27
Sweet Potato Jacket with Blue Cheese, Bacon, Pecans & Cranberries Recipe
This sweet potato jacket recipe stuffs baked spuds with savory bacon, tangy blue cheese, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries. Potatoes are baked until tender, then loaded up with tasty toppings and returned to the oven for a quick melt. Perfect as a side dish or light meal, these flavorful stuffed sweet potatoes combine contrasting textures and flavors into one delicious package. Serves four.
10
of 27
Best Caprese Skewers Recipe
Caprese skewers is a delightful appetizer that’s easy to make! Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves – thread ’em on skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, sprinkle salt and pepper, then serve. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a tasty, colorful snack. Simple ingredients, big flavor – give this recipe a try and impress your guests. Buon appetito!
11
of 27
Easy Herb Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Here’s a tasty, easy herb cream cheese dip recipe that’ll wow your Thanksgiving guests! Toss cream cheese, garlic, cilantro, green onions, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper into a bowl or food processor. Mix until smooth, season to perfection, then serve with your favorite dippers. This delicious dip comes together in a flash and is perfect for snacking or entertaining. Give it a whirl today!
12
of 27
Goat Cheese, Honey, & Fruit Crostini Recipe
Whip up a delightful appetizer in no time! Slice baguette, toast lightly. Mix creamy goat cheese with honey; spread on bread. Top with your favorite fruit – berries, figs, grapes all work great. Drizzle extra honey for added sweetness. Voila! You’ve got an easy, impressive starter that’s perfect for parties or snacking. Leftovers keep in the fridge for a couple days, if they last that long!
13
of 27
Mini Quiche Lorraine Recipe
This mini quiche Lorraine recipe combines bacon, Swiss cheese, eggs, milk, and seasonings. Preheat oven to 375°F, grease tart pans, divide bacon-cheese mixture among them. Whisk milk, eggs, salt, pepper, nutmeg; pour over bacon-cheese. Sprinkle chives on top, bake 20 minutes until set and golden. Cool few minutes before serving these delightful, savory quiches that make perfect appetizers or brunch dishes. Enjoy their rich, creamy texture and delicious flavors!
14
of 27
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Recipe
Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a delectable appetizer or side dish! Rinse asparagus, snap off tough ends. Wrap each spear with prosciutto strip, lay on lined sheet pan. Drizzle olive oil, sprinkle black pepper. Bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until asparagus is tender, prosciutto crispy. Transfer to platter, top with lemon zest, parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot – your taste buds will thank you!
15
of 27
Baked Stuffed Brie with Cranberries & Walnuts Recipe
This baked stuffed brie recipe combines a wheel of brie cheese with dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and honey. Cut the top rind off the brie, spread the cranberry-walnut mixture on top, drizzle with honey, then bake until melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs. Serve this delectable appetizer alongside crackers or bread for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
16
of 27
Mary’s Roasted Red Pepper Dip Recipe
Mary’s Roasted Red Pepper Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings. Peppers are roasted, peeled, then blended with garlic, mayo, yogurt, Parmesan, paprika, salt and pepper. Refrigerate the smooth dip for an hour before serving alongside veggies, crackers or toast. This recipe yields a tasty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make ahead of time. Impress guests with this delicious homemade creation at your next Thanksgiving party!
17
of 27
Sausage Balls Recipe
Sausage balls are a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer or snack. Mix pork sausage, biscuit baking mix, sharp cheddar cheese in a bowl. Roll the mixture into small balls, place ’em on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F for 20-22 minutes. That’s it! You’ve got yourself a tasty treat perfect for parties, game day gatherings or just because. Enjoy your savory, cheesy sausage balls!
18
of 27
Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Simmer cranberries in oil, then add sugar, water, jalapenos, lemon juice, cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth, cool completely, and mix with cream cheese for a creamy, sweet, and spicy dip. Perfect for holiday parties or anytime you crave a delicious appetizer. Serve with crackers or veggies and watch it disappear!
19
of 27
Hot Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip Recipe
Here’s a mouth-watering dip that’ll be a hit at your next Thanksgiving party! Caramelize onions ’til golden brown, then mix ’em with cream cheese, mayo, grated cheese, and crispy bacon. Spread it in a dish and bake for 20-30 minutes at 350°F. Once bubbly and browned on top, serve hot with crackers or veggies. This savory, cheesy dip is sure to disappear fast, so make plenty!
20
of 27
Smoked Salmon Sushi Roll Recipe
This smoked salmon sushi roll recipe guides you through crafting delectable maki at home. Layer nori with sushi rice, smoked salmon, cucumber, and avocado. Roll ’em up tight using a bamboo mat, slice into bite-sized pieces, then serve with classic accompaniments like soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger. Impress your friends and family with your sushi-making skills – no restaurant reservation required!
21
of 27
Roasted Chestnuts Recipe
Roasting chestnuts? It’s a cinch! Slit ’em, toss with olive oil and sea salt, then bake at 400°F for half an hour. Once they start opening up and get tender, take ’em out to cool slightly. Peel off those shells while still warm and enjoy this delicious, nutritious snack or side dish. Perfect for chilly days or holiday gatherings – give it a whirl!
22
of 27
Mini Corn Dog Muffins Recipe
Mini corn dog muffins are a fun, bite-sized twist on classic corn dogs. Whip up corn muffin batter, pour it halfway into greased mini muffin cups, then plop a hot dog piece and cheese cube into each one. Bake ’em at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, let cool briefly, and voila! You’ve got tasty, poppable treats that’ll disappear faster than you can say “ketchup and mustard, please!”
23
of 27
Brie, Apple & Onion Tart Recipe
This tart’s a breeze: caramelized onions, apples, brie on puff pastry. Bake ’til golden brown, garnish with thyme – voila! Perfect appetizer or light meal that’ll impress your guests. Savory, sweet, flaky, gooey… irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Give it a whirl next time you’re craving something fancy but don’t wanna spend hours in the kitchen. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
24
of 27
Grilled Chicken and Grape Spring Salad with Goat Cheese and Honey-Balsamic Dressing Recipe
This recipe whips up a delightful spring salad featuring grilled chicken, juicy grapes, crunchy pecans, tangy goat cheese, and zesty red onions. Chicken’s seasoned with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper before hitting the grill. Salad’s tossed with a homemade honey-balsamic dressing that’s easy to make in a blender. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this flavorful dish will impress your taste buds without requiring too much effort.
25
of 27
Cranberry Pistachio Baked Brie Recipe
Simmer cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest until thick and jammy. Bake brie till gooey, then top with cranberry sauce, pistachios, more zest. Serve this decadent appetizer with crackers for a holiday party showstopper or cozy night in. Prep time’s just 20 minutes – easy peasy! Dig in while it’s warm and watch your Thanksgiving guests swoon.
26
of 27
Baked Delicata Squash Rings With Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe
Baked delicata squash rings are crunchy, savory snacks. Slice squash into rings, scoop out seeds, coat in flour, eggs, then breadcrumb mixture with Parmesan, herbs and spices. Bake until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Serve with a quick honey mustard dipping sauce made from Dijon, whole-grain mustard and honey. Perfect for fall gatherings or game day appetizers!
27
of 27
Herby Feta & Lemon Dip with Crudités Recipe
This herby feta & lemon dip recipe combines crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, parsley, mint, garlic, and black pepper. Mix ingredients until creamy, transfer to a bowl, garnish with herbs if desired. Serve alongside fresh crudités like sliced cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers and cherry tomatoes for a delicious, refreshing appetizer or snack. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you’re craving for something light yet flavorful!