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    Home » MSN Slideshows

    I Never Show Up to Family Gatherings Without These 36 Appetizers

    Published: Aug 16, 2025 by Barbara Curry

    Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links.

    Every time I walk into a family gathering, people immediately start asking what I brought—because I never show up to family gatherings without these appetizers. They’re the kind that disappear before the main course even hits the table, and somehow everyone ends up asking for the recipe. Honestly, having a few of these crowd-pleasers in your back pocket makes any gathering feel way more fun and stress-free. It’s like carrying a little secret weapon for instant popularity at the snack table.

    Mini Croque-Monsieur A French Appetizer

    Mini Croque Monsieurs on a black platter.
    Mini Croque-Monsieur A French Appetizer. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.


     

    If you can’t be in France you can still enjoy mini Croque-Monsieur appetizers. Your guests will love this take on a French classic.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Croque-Monsieur A French Appetizer

    Mini Zucchini Appetizer Quiches

    A platter of zucchini quiches with basil leaves.
    Mini Zucchini Appetizer Quiches. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Warm Up Your Winter: Southern Classics!

    FREE EMAIL BONUS: Southern staples made simply & cozy

    Serve a zucchini appetizer right out of the oven or at room temperature, baked in prepared phyllo cups, they’re a breeze to make.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Zucchini Appetizer Quiches

    Flaky Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls

    A platter of puff pastry sausage rolls.
    Flaky Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Making flaky puff pastry sausage rolls at home is quite easy, actually! Assembly is straightforward. A terrific bite-size appetizer, these can also be made ahead.
    Get the Recipe: Flaky Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls

    Recipe For Parmesan Wings

    Parmesan chicken wings on a cooling rack.
    Recipe For Parmesan Wings. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Parmesan Chicken Wings are baked in the oven for perfect wings without all the grease. Perfect for game night!
    Get the Recipe: Recipe For Parmesan Wings

    Puff Pastry Appetizers

    French onion pastry bites on a platter with a glass of wine.
    Puff Pastry Appetizers. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Caramelized Onion Pastry Bites are just what you need to impress your friends. An easy make ahead appetizer.
    Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Appetizers

    Franks Red Hot Buffalo Dip

    A baking dish of buffalo chicken dip
    Franks Red Hot Buffalo Dip. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    This classic game-day appetizer brings the bold flavors of rotisserie chicken and tangy Buffalo sauce. It’s like enjoying hot wings in a creamy, irresistible dip.
    Get the Recipe: Franks Red Hot Buffalo Dip

    20-Minute Baked Buffalo Chicken Cups

    A platter of Buffalo chicken bites.
    20-Minute Baked Buffalo Chicken Cups. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    These buffalo chicken-filled cups are the perfect bite-size appetizer! They’re made with tortilla chip scoops, cooked shredded chicken, and cheddar cheese.
    Get the Recipe: 20-Minute Baked Buffalo Chicken Cups

    Sausage Balls Recipe Without Bisquick (Non Greasy)

    A platter of homemade sausage balls.
    Sausage Balls Recipe Without Bisquick (Non Greasy). Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Sausage balls without Bisquick are a favorite at our house. Less greasy than the traditional recipe making them perfect for family gatherings!
    Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls Recipe Without Bisquick (Non Greasy)

    Fire Cracker Recipe With Saltines

    A plate of seasoned crackers.
    Fire Cracker Recipe With Saltines. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Spicy fire crackers made with ranch, red pepper flakes, and dill. A zesty snack that’s easy to make and perfect for family gatherings!
    Get the Recipe: Fire Cracker Recipe With Saltines

    Stuffed Potato Skins

    A platter of stuffed potato skins with chives and sour cream in bowl next to it.
    Stuffed Potato Skins. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Bacon and cheese stuffed potato skins are loaded up into mini potatoes and baked for an easy crispy appetizer. Perfect finger food!
    Get the Recipe: Stuffed Potato Skins

    30 Minute Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls

    A platter of sausage balls with two football helmets in the background.
    30 Minute Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Follow these steps at home to make these easy southern-style sausage balls with pimento cheese, not cheddar cheese. Recipe is made without Bisquick.
    Get the Recipe: 30 Minute Pimento Cheese Sausage Balls

    Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings With Homemade Sauce

    Buffalo chicken wings on a platter next to a pitcher of sauce.
    Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings With Homemade Sauce. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Crispy baked buffalo wings that are baked NOT fried. Topped with a spicy homemade Buffalo sauce, enjoy it with blue cheese dipping sauce.
    Get the Recipe: Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings With Homemade Sauce

    Vidalia Onion Dip

    A scoop of onion dip on a pita chip.
    Vidalia Onion Dip. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    This simple yet flavorful dip is a game-day must-have that always pleases the crowd. With just a few ingredients, it’s the ultimate onion dip for any party.
    Get the Recipe: Vidalia Onion Dip

    Creamy Chorizo Queso Dip

    Chorizo queso dip in a bowl with chips
    Creamy Chorizo Queso Dip. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Smoky chorizo takes this creamy queso to the next level, making it a bold addition to your spread. Perfect with chips or tacos, it’s a game-day winner every time.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Chorizo Queso Dip

    Hot Pimento Cheese Dip In A Crock Pot

    A skillet of pimento cheese dip next to a bowl of corn chips.
    Hot Pimento Cheese Dip In A Crock Pot. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    This warm, cheesy dip is a quick crowd-pleaser that stays perfectly gooey in a slow cooker. Add it to your game-day table for an easy, flavorful snack.
    Get the Recipe: Hot Pimento Cheese Dip In A Crock Pot

    Creamy Crab Pinwheels Recipe (Freeze & Bake)

    Creamy Crab Pinwheels Recipe (Freeze & Bake). Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

    This delicious crab pinwheels recipe is stuffed with a creamy filling of cream cheese, crab, cheddar cheese, and a spicy creole seasoning.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Crab Pinwheels Recipe (Freeze & Bake)

    Bruschetta With Balsamic Glaze

    Bruschetta With Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: Pip and Ebby.

    Tomatoes marinated in oil, balsamic vinegar and garlic is the perfect topping for bruschetta with balsamic glaze. Perfect little finger food!
    Get the Recipe: Bruschetta With Balsamic Glaze

    Ultimate Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

    Ultimate Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Lauren’s Latest.

    Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are filled with delicious sausage, two kinds of cheese, panko & herb mixture and baked to golden bubbly perfection.
    Get the Recipe: Ultimate Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

    Homemade White Queso Dip In Just 15 Minutes

    A bowl of white queso dip with chips on a plate.
    Homemade White Queso Dip In Just 15 Minutes. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Smooth, creamy, and ready in just 15 minutes, this queso is a game-day essential. It’s the perfect pairing for chips or your favorite dippers.
    Get the Recipe: Homemade White Queso Dip In Just 15 Minutes

    Irresistible Hot Crab Dip Recipe

    Irresistible Hot Crab Dip Recipe. Photo credit: Pip and Ebby.

    This rich and cheesy crab dip is a party staple that’s quick to prepare. Serve it warm with crackers or chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
    Get the Recipe: Irresistible Hot Crab Dip Recipe

    Hot Cheese Dip Recipe With Ham And Bacon

    Hot Cheese Dip Recipe With Ham And Bacon. Photo credit: Pip and Ebby.

    Let your slow cooker do the work for this comforting and gooey cheese dip. It’s perfect for game-day snacking or weekend indulgence.
    Get the Recipe: Hot Cheese Dip Recipe With Ham And Bacon

    Southern Cheese Straws With Sharp Cheddar Cheese

    A basket of cheese straws next to glassesof wine.
    Southern Cheese Straws With Sharp Cheddar Cheese. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Cheesy, buttery, and with a spicy kick—these cheddar cheese straws are easy to make and perfect for snacks or parties.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Cheese Straws With Sharp Cheddar Cheese

    Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe (No Bisquick!)

    Sausage balls piled on a platter.
    Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe (No Bisquick!). Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Cream cheese sausage balls are the perfect snack food for your next party. Serve these any time of day for a savory finger food that’s full of flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Sausage Balls Recipe (No Bisquick!)

    Rice Krispie Cheese Crackers (Cheese Crispies)

    Small bowls of cheese crispies next to a grey linen.
    Rice Krispie Cheese Crackers (Cheese Crispies). Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Cheese crispies are a buttery and cheesy finger food that make the perfect non-greasy appetizer or snack. Rice Krispies are the secret!
    Get the Recipe: Rice Krispie Cheese Crackers (Cheese Crispies)

    Crispy Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots

    A serving bowl of tater tots wrapped in bacon.
    Crispy Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Crispy tater tots wrapped in bacon with a brown sugar glaze will be the hit of your next party. So easy to make.
    Get the Recipe: Crispy Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots

    Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Appetizers With Mushrooms

    A serving platter with mushroom crescent rolls
    Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Appetizers With Mushrooms. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Follow these steps at home to make this easy vegetarian crescent roll appetizer with cream cheese and chopped mushrooms.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Crescent Roll Appetizers With Mushrooms

    5 Ingredient Crock Pot Chili Cheese Dip

    5 Ingredient Crock Pot Chili Cheese Dip . Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

    Made with just five ingredients, this creamy, warm dip pairs perfectly with chips. Use homemade or canned chili for an easy, make-ahead game-day hit.
    Get the Recipe: 5 Ingredient Crock Pot Chili Cheese Dip

    Hot Maryland Crab Dip Recipe

    Hot Maryland Crab Dip Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

    Packed with sweet crab meat and classic crab seasoning, this creamy dip is a seafood lover’s dream. Let your crock pot handle the cooking while you enjoy the game.
    Get the Recipe: Hot Maryland Crab Dip Recipe

    Hot Onion Dip Recipe (3 Ingredients!)

    Hot Onion Dip Recipe (3 Ingredients!). Photo credit: Lauren’s Latest.

    With only three ingredients, this quick and easy appetizer is always a hit. Serve it with chips, bread, or veggies for a versatile game-day treat.
    Get the Recipe: Hot Onion Dip Recipe (3 Ingredients!)

    Bold Chex Mix Recipe Oven Baked

    A bowl of buttery chex mix, with pretzels.
    Bold Chex Mix Recipe Oven Baked. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    This Homemade Chex Mix Recipe coated in a bold and buttery seasoning is an ideal snack. Perfect for family gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Bold Chex Mix Recipe Oven Baked

    Cheesy Sausage Phyllo Cups With Ranch Dressing

    A platter of sausage cups.
    Cheesy Sausage Phyllo Cups With Ranch Dressing. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Sausage and cheese phyllo cups are a simple but AMAZING 4-ingredient appetizer that you can prepare in 10 minutes! Great for gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Cheesy Sausage Phyllo Cups With Ranch Dressing

    Mini Pimento Cheese Balls With Bacon And Pecans

    A tray of mini cream cheese balls.
    Mini Pimento Cheese Balls With Bacon And Pecans. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    One of the most famous of Southern treats, these Pimento Cheese Balls are tangy, cheesy, and creamy—and the perfect appetizer for any event.
    Get the Recipe: Mini Pimento Cheese Balls With Bacon And Pecans

    Southern Deviled Eggs With Sweet Pickle Relish

    A platter of deviled eggs, each topped with a sprinkle of paprika, is arranged neatly on a clear glass tray—a classic touch from beloved southern recipes. Fresh parsley sits in the center as garnish.
    Southern Deviled Eggs With Sweet Pickle Relish. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Creamy deviled eggs made with mayo, mustard, and sweet pickle relish for the perfect tangy-sweet bite. A party-ready Southern classic.
    Get the Recipe: Southern Deviled Eggs With Sweet Pickle Relish

    Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Baked In The Oven

    A plate of bacon wrapped jalapeno chicken poppers.
    Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Baked In The Oven. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    Golden brown, bacon-wrapped jalapeño chicken poppers are stuffed with a tequila cream cheese filling, perfect for your next party.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Baked In The Oven

    Homemade Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls With Apples

    Homemade Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls With Apples. Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

    These puff pastry sausage rolls are a sweet and savory mix of sausage, apple, and crunchy pistachios. You’ll crave these again and again!
    Get the Recipe: Homemade Puff Pastry Sausage Rolls With Apples

    Hot And Cheesy Jalapeno Artichoke Dip In A Bread Bowl

    Hot And Cheesy Jalapeno Artichoke Dip In A Bread Bowl. Photo credit: Lauren’s Latest.

    Spicy, cheesy, and served in a bread bowl, this dip is a show-stopping appetizer. It’s perfect for adding a little heat to your game-day spread.
    Get the Recipe: Hot And Cheesy Jalapeno Artichoke Dip In A Bread Bowl

    You’re Not Truly Southern Unless You Know These 18 Dessert Recipes

    A collage featuring a peach cobbler in a dish with a serving spoon, strawberry frosted cake, white-iced bundt cake, strawberry-topped bars, and fresh strawberries on a white surface—proof that dessert is tempting even if you have got ground beef for dinner.
    You’re Not Truly Southern Unless You Know These 18 Dessert Recipes. Photo credit: Easy Southern Desserts.

    Growing up around cast iron skillets and porch swings, certain sweets just had to be on the table—or it didn’t feel like home. From gooey pies to melt-in-your-mouth cakes, you’re not truly Southern unless you know these dessert recipes by heart. Get the Recipes: You’re Not Truly Southern Unless You Know These 18 Dessert Recipes

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    Barbara holds a tote bag filled with flowers, baguettes, and fresh produce at an indoor market.

    Barbara Curry is the culinary adventurer of Butter & Baggage. With a dedicated enthusiasm for real butter made from happy cows she is in constant pursuit of delicious recipes and tasty dishes. She shares her experiences, ventures, and occasional misadventures because let’s face it things can get messy in any kitchen.

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