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No More Chips And Dip: 17 Appetizer Recipes That Won’t Put Your Guests To Sleep

Chips and dip are fine, but let’s be honest—they’ve had their moment. When you’re hosting, why not serve appetizers that get people talking? These 17 recipes bring a little more excitement to the table, ensuring your guests are anything but bored while they nibble before the main course. Level up your hosting game with appetizers that your guests will actually remember.

Sausage Rolls on a white plate.
Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your appetizer game with Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. These poppers are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, offering a smoky kick that sparks conversation. They are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their meal. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that makes them a memorable part of any culinary lineup.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Reuben Egg Rolls

A black plate with Reuben Egg Rolls and dipping sauce.
Reuben Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform traditional fare with Reuben Egg Rolls, a creative take on a classic sandwich. This appetizer is sure to intrigue your guests with its unique presentation and familiar flavors wrapped in a crispy exterior. It’s an ideal choice for parties where you want to serve something unexpected. They’re often the first to disappear from the serving tray.
Get the Recipe: Reuben Egg Rolls

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites are a must-have for those seeking a light yet flavorful appetizer. These bites are easy to pick up and even easier to enjoy, making them perfect for social gatherings where guests mingle and eat. They combine smoky flavors with a crisp texture, providing a satisfying start to any feast.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Redneck Eggrolls

A hand is holding half of the Redneck Eggrolls, with pieces on a white plate.
Redneck Eggrolls. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Redneck Eggrolls offer a southern twist to an Asian classic, making them an exciting choice for any event. These are popular for their hearty filling and the novelty they bring to the table. Perfect for an outdoor barbecue or indoor casual dining, they tend to draw a crowd and spark interest. They also make for lively discussion among food enthusiasts.
Get the Recipe: Redneck Eggrolls

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a decadent treat, try Pork Belly Burnt Ends at your next gathering. These morsels are known for their rich flavor and tender texture, making them irresistible to meat lovers. They serve as a fantastic conversation starter and are perfect for any occasion needing a touch of indulgence. They’re often praised for their melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cold Crab Dip is an elegant and refreshing choice for those who appreciate seafood. This dip is a go-to for its creamy consistency and rich flavor, making it a sophisticated addition to any party menu. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers and is often a hit at upscale gatherings or casual meet-ups.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

A plate of Prosciutto & Parmesan Puff Pastry pinwheels.
Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a touch of elegance with Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels, which are as visually appealing as they are delicious. These pinwheels are perfect for guests who enjoy a flaky, savory snack. They are often chosen for their easy-to-eat format and the sophisticated flair they bring to any appetizer spread. Ideal for gatherings that call for a bit of panache.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots on parchment paper, topped with Alfredo cheese, green onions, and a drizzle of white sauce, placed on a dark rectangular slate plate.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots are a playful and hearty appetizer that mimics a beloved fast food favorite. They’re perfect for a casual gathering or a game day feast, offering a familiar taste in an unexpected format. This dish is often the centerpiece of conversations, beloved for its comfort food vibe and fulfilling nature.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Miniaturize a classic main with Beef Wellington Bites. These small treats pack the bold flavors of the traditional dish into a perfect party-sized portion. They are ideal for formal occasions or anytime you want to add a bit of gourmet flair to your spread. Guests often marvel at the intricate flavor packed into such a small bite.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Four pieces of grilled fruit skewers on a slate plate with a bowl of cherry dip.
Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Level up your next gathering with a unique twist on appetizers that’s sure to catch the eye. Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip offer a refreshing change from typical starters. It’s an easy way to introduce a burst of flavor and color to any event, proving appetizers can be both fun and inviting.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Fruit Skewers with Cherry Dip

Sauerkraut Balls

Sauerkraut Balls in a skillet on a white background.
Sauerkraut Balls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those looking for an appetizer that brings a bit of punch and unique flavor, Sauerkraut Balls are a perfect choice. They offer a crispy exterior with a surprising burst of flavor inside, ensuring they are a conversation starter at any party. This dish is a fantastic way to introduce variety to your appetizer lineup and keep your guests intrigued from the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Balls

Baked Brie in a Bowl

A wooden platter with baked brie in a bowl, cheese, crackers, grapes and bread.
Baked Brie in a Bowl. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine pulling Baked Brie in a Bowl out of the oven, bubbling and ready to be the star of your appetizer table. This dish combines rich flavors in a way that’s bound to gather a crowd around the table. It’s perfect for dipping, spreading, and sharing, making it a sociable option for gatherings. Plus, it’s remarkably easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie in a Bowl

Spicy Smoked Chex Mix

Two bowls of snack mix with pretzels and cereal on a wooden table, accompanied by decorative balls and a colorful napkin.
Spicy Smoked Chex Mix. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Kick the flavor up a notch with Spicy Smoked Chex Mix, an appetizer that promises to wake up your palate. This dish is a bold take on traditional snack mixes, offering a smoky and spicy twist that’s as addictive as it is satisfying. It’s perfect for casual get-togethers or as a prelude to a hearty meal, ensuring that your guests are happily munching as they mingle.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Smoked Chex Mix

Cold Corn Dip

A bowl of Chilled Corn Dip with chips on a black plate.
Cold Corn Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cold Corn Dip is the ideal choice when you need an appetizer that’s both refreshing and easy to serve. This dish stands out for its creamy texture and cool, crisp flavors, making it a favorite during warmer months or alongside spicier offerings. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dippers, from crisp vegetables to hearty chips, ensuring its versatility at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cold Corn Dip

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

No appetizer table is complete without the vibrant and fresh Tomato Bruschetta Board. This dish is a celebration of simplicity, highlighting fresh flavors in a visually appealing way. It’s perfect for guests to customize their bites, adding a layer of interactivity to your gathering. The board setup makes it incredibly inviting for guests to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

Beef Jerky Dip

Beef jerky dip on a cracker held in a hand.
Beef Jerky Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ditch the usual suspects for something heartily different with Beef Jerky Dip. This appetizer brings a robust flavor to the forefront, making it a memorable part of your menu. It’s especially popular in settings where bold tastes are appreciated, and its uniqueness is a talking point in itself. Serve this when you want to surprise and please a crowd that thinks they’ve seen it all.
Get the Recipe: Beef Jerky Dip

Sausage Rolls

Sausage Rolls on a white plate.
Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage Rolls are a classic choice that never fails to please. They bring a warm, comforting presence to your appetizer spread, ideal for any gathering. Their flaky crust and rich filling are a hit at both casual and upscale events, making them a versatile option. Plus, they’re easy to handle, which means guests can enjoy them while mingling.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Rolls

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