Top 10 Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes to Delight Your Guests - The Garden Style (2024)

Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious feast. But let’s face it, the main course often takes hours to prepare, leaving your guests eagerly awaiting the big reveal. That’s where Thanksgiving appetizer recipes come in! These bite-sized delights not only keep hunger at bay but also set the tone for the entire meal. They’re the perfect way to kick off your Thanksgiving celebration and keep everyone satisfied until the turkey takes center stage.

In this article, we’ll explore ten mouthwatering Thanksgiving appetizer recipes that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!). From classic favorites to creative twists on traditional flavors, these appetizers are sure to impress. So, let’s dive in and discover how to start your Thanksgiving meal off right!

Classic Stuffed Mushrooms

Let’s kick things off with a timeless favorite that never fails to impress: stuffed mushrooms. These little umami bombs are a standout among Thanksgiving appetizer recipes and are the perfect way to whet your guests’ appetites.

Ingredients:

• 24 medium-sized button mushrooms
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms and carefully remove the stems. Finely chop the stems.
3. In a bowl, mix the chopped stems, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, cream cheese, garlic, and parsley.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap generously with the mixture.
6. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Tips for Making Ahead: You can prepare these stuffed mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven and bake as directed. Easy peasy!

Recommended reading: The Best Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes for Lunch

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Brie Bites

These little flavor bombs combine the creaminess of brie with the tartness of cranberries and a hint of heat. They’re the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory – a true crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 8 oz brie cheese, cut into 24 small cubes
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the puff pastry into 24 equal squares.
3. Press each square into a mini muffin tin.
4. Place a cube of brie in each pastry cup.
5. Mix cranberry sauce with honey and cayenne pepper.
6. Top each brie cube with a spoonful of the cranberry mixture and some chopped pecans.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes until the pastry is golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Variations: For a different flavor profile, try swapping the brie for camembert and the cranberry sauce for fig jam. It’s equally delicious and adds some variety to your appetizer spread!

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus (Vegetarian Option)

This seasonal twist on classic hummus is not only delicious but also perfectly on-theme for Thanksgiving. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly!

Ingredients:

• 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 cups when roasted and pureed)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 cloves garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pumpkin seeds for garnish

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half, remove seeds, and roast cut-side down for about 40 minutes or until tender.
3. Scoop out the pumpkin flesh and let it cool.
4. In a food processor, combine the roasted pumpkin, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, and paprika.
5. Blend until smooth, adding water if needed to reach desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and a dash of smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this vibrant hummus with an assortment of crudités like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. For a more indulgent option, pair it with warm pita triangles or homemade pita chips.

Mini Turkey and Stuffing Sliders

These adorable sliders are like a preview of the main event. As part of your Thanksgiving appetizer recipes, they’re perfect for those who just can’t wait for the turkey!

Ingredients:

• 12 dinner rolls, halved
• 1 lb sliced turkey breast
• 2 cups prepared stuffing
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix mayonnaise with a tablespoon of cranberry sauce.
3. Spread the cranberry mayo on the bottom half of each roll.
4. Layer with turkey and a spoonful of stuffing.
5. Spread the remaining cranberry sauce on the top half of the rolls.
6. Close the sliders and place them in a baking dish.
7. Mix melted butter with dried thyme and brush over the tops of the sliders.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and heated through.

How to Make Them in Advance: You can assemble these sliders a day ahead. Just cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, brush with the herb butter and bake as directed, adding an extra 5 minutes to the baking time.

Charcuterie Board with a Thanksgiving Twist

A charcuterie board is always a hit, and this Thanksgiving version takes it to the next level with seasonal ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients:

• Assorted cured meats (prosciutto, salami, turkey pastrami)
• Cheese selection (aged cheddar, brie, goat cheese)
• Dried cranberries and apricots
• Candied pecans
• Sliced pears and apples
• Crackers and crostini
• Fig jam
• Honey
• Fresh rosemary sprigs

Assembly Instructions:

1. Choose a large wooden board or slate as your base.
2. Start by placing small bowls of fig jam and honey on the board.
3. Arrange the meats in loose folds or rolls around the board.
4. Add chunks or slices of cheese in different areas.
5. Fill in gaps with clusters of dried fruit and nuts.
6. Add sliced fruits, arranging them in fan shapes for visual appeal.
7. Place crackers and crostini in several spots around the board.
8. Tuck fresh rosemary sprigs here and there for aroma and decoration.

Seasonal Additions: To make it extra special for Thanksgiving, consider adding some roasted pumpkin seeds, small wedges of pumpkin pie, or even some thinly sliced roast turkey.

Recommended reading: The Ultimate Guide to Pumpkin Seed Recipes

Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Almonds

These sweet and savory bites are always the first to disappear at any gathering. As a standout in your Thanksgiving appetizer recipes, they’re simple to make but pack a big flavor punch!

Ingredients:

• 24 Medjool dates
• 24 whole almonds
• 12 slices bacon, cut in half
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pit the dates and stuff each with a whole almond.
3. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
4. Mix maple syrup with cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Arrange the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush each with the maple syrup mixture.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crispy.

Cooking Tips: For extra crispy bacon, you can par-cook the bacon for a few minutes before wrapping the dates. This ensures that the bacon is perfectly crisp by the time the dates are heated through.

Butternut Squash and Sage Crostini

These elegant crostini bring together the flavors of fall in one delicious bite. They’re a great way to use up any leftover butternut squash you might have from other Thanksgiving prep!

Ingredients:

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced diagonally
• 8 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Fresh sage leaves
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Brush baguette slices with remaining olive oil and toast until golden.
5. Mix ricotta with honey and a pinch of salt.
6. Spread ricotta mixture on each crostini.
7. Top with roasted butternut squash.
8. Fry sage leaves in a little oil until crisp, then crumble over the crostini.
9. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Alternative Toppings: For a different flavor profile, try topping the crostini with roasted pears and crumbled blue cheese instead of butternut squash. The combination of sweet pears and tangy blue cheese is divine!

Recommended reading: Thanksgiving Recipes on a Budget: Delicious Meals Without Breaking the Bank

Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Skewers

These skewers are a fun and tasty way to serve Brussels sprouts. Even the skeptics might be converted!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts in the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread Brussels sprouts onto skewers, about 5-6 per skewer.
5. Place skewers on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
6. Brush with any remaining glaze before serving.

Serving Suggestions: These skewers are great served warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits or toasted pecans over the skewers just before serving.

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This classic dip is always a hit at parties, and it’s especially comforting on a chilly Thanksgiving day. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor – perfect for scooping up with crusty bread or crisp vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Fold in the chopped artichoke hearts and spinach.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this dip hot with an assortment of dippers. Toasted baguette slices, pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable crudités all work wonderfully. For a fun presentation, consider serving the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl!

Spiced Sweet Potato Chips with Herb Dip (Gluten-Free Option)

These homemade sweet potato chips are a healthier alternative to store-bought chips and are naturally gluten-free. As part of your Thanksgiving appetizer recipes, they’re paired with a zesty herb dip, making them an addictive snack that your guests won’t be able to resist.

Ingredients:
For the chips:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

For the herb dip:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of half a lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions:
For the chips:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice sweet potatoes very thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.
3. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato slices with olive oil and spices.
4. Arrange slices in a single layer on baking sheets.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp and lightly browned.

For the herb dip:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips for Perfect Chips: To ensure your chips come out crispy, make sure to slice the sweet potatoes as thinly and evenly as possible. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – give each slice some space to crisp up properly.

Final Conclusions

Now that we’ve explored these ten delicious Thanksgiving appetizer recipes, you’re all set to kick off your holiday feast in style. Remember, the key to a stress-free Thanksgiving is preparation. Many of these appetizers can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on the main course and spend more time with your loved ones.

Whether you opt for classic favorites like stuffed mushrooms or try something new like pumpkin hummus, these appetizers are sure to impress your guests and keep them satisfied until the turkey is ready. Don’t be afraid to mix and match or put your own spin on these recipes – cooking is all about creativity and personal taste!

From all of us to you, we wish you a delicious Thanksgiving filled with good food, great company, and plenty of reasons to be grateful. Enjoy your appetizers, and don’t forget to save room for the main course!