Butter & Baggage logo
menu icon
subscribe
search icon

Appetizers

Appetizers set the tone for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday dinner, game day, or just a casual get-together with friends. They don’t have to be fussy to feel special, sometimes the simplest recipes like oven baked Chex mix are the ones that get the biggest smiles. From classic Southern favorites to quick snacks you can throw together in minutes, this collection has options for every kind of occasion.

Warm and Baked Appetizers

There’s something about a warm appetizer that feels instantly inviting. Whether it’s a bubbling dish of Baked Brie with Pecans and caramelized apples or a pan of golden Sausage Balls, these recipes come out of the oven ready to steal the show. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

A hand holds a spoon above a black bowl filled with creamy cheese dip, with some dip dripping from the spoon. Crushed peppers garnish the dip. Bowls of tortilla chips are visible in the background.

Cold and Make-Ahead Bites

Appetizers don’t always need heat to shine. Recipes like a creamy Smoked Salmon Dip or a light and fresh tomato and peach salsa can be made ahead and served straight from the fridge. Just set them out with crackers or fresh veggies and you’re party-ready in minutes.

More Appetizer Recipes

Mini Croque Monsieur

Love French food but don’t want to mess with a knife and fork? These mini Croque Monsieur appetizers take everything you adore about the classic, melty cheese, salty ham, creamy béchamel, and tuck it into flaky puff pastry. Easy to prep, elegant on a platter, and totally snackable.

Get the Recipe

Southern Classics

Some appetizers are simply non-negotiable at a Southern gathering. A bowl of Pimento Cheese or a tray of perfectly seasoned Deviled Eggs are the kinds of recipes that never go out of style. They’re timeless, crowd-pleasing, and taste like tradition.

More Appetizer Recipes

A platter of mini croque Monsieur appetizers.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Mini Croque Monsieur with Béchamel

This has become a go-to for parties. The Croque Monsieur is one of my favorite sandwiches and to have it in hors d’oeuvers-form is a dream. For folks that want ‘more flavor’ be sure to buy an aged Gruyere, that’s where they flavor really comes from. I’ve found too that you really can’t add too much cheese. Someone else mentioned using more bechamel which I also found keeps the texture less-dry. Thank you for coming up with a wonderful appetizer and sharing it! 

Tom

Get the Recipe

Quick Snacks 

Not every get-together calls for a full recipe. Sometimes all you need are a few smart shortcuts to make something guests will love. Dill Pickle Triscuit Appetizers or a no-fuss creamy artichoke dip prove that easy can still feel special.

More Appetizer Recipes

All Appetizer Recipes