Best Thanksgiving Appetizers

20 Thanksgiving Appetizers for 2021

Holy smokes…can you believe that Thanksgiving is next week? This time of year is so stressful that before you know it, Thanksgiving is here and you have no idea what to put on the menu besides the classic staples. Thankfully for you, we’ve put together the best Thanksgiving appetizers so your guests can have something yummy to snack on before your big feast. 

And if you’re looking for the best Thanksgiving side dishes, check out our best 40+ Thanksgiving Side Dishes right here.

Should you serve appetizers before Thanksgiving dinner? 

Sure, appetizers aren’t really a traditional part of Thanksgiving day…but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate them into your Thanksgiving menu. Personally, I love giving my guests some hors d’oeuvres to snack on before the turkey is ready. And let’s face it, sometimes serving party appetizers loosens the mood and goes well with a glass of wine! 

What appetizers are good for Thanksgiving? 

We’ll discuss this a bit more when we look at Thanksgiving appetizer recipes, but let’s talk about a few staples that you can incorporate into your menu.

Firstly, I always start with a charcuterie board as soon as my guests arrive. It’s an easy Thanksgiving appetizer that you can customize based on your personal preference. I love having a mix of savory and sweet on my board. For example, I usually start with some fruit (cherries, dates, blueberries, etc). Then, I add the meat and cheese…blue cheese, prosciutto, even some baked brie. Lastly, I always put some type of bread (if I have time I’ll do some Italian bruschetta) and a dark purple jelly. Yum!! 

Secondly, cranberry brie is another party favorite. Personally, I like to make these into small bites so it’s easy finger food for guests.

Thirdly, my kids LOVE pigs-in-a-blanket. And if we’re being honest, I do too…it takes me back to being a child and I love reminiscing on childhood holiday parties. 

Fourthly, stuffed mushrooms are always a favorite in my house. I mean, how can lots of cheese not be a total crowd-pleaser?!

Lastly, I always make sure I have some breadsticks and dipping sauce on hand. Forget the fancy shi-shi appetizers…the best appetizers are always the simplest! 

How do you plan a Thanksgiving party? 

Planning a last minute Thanksgiving Party? Don’t let the stress take over and ruin the fun! With these simple tips below, planning your epic Thanksgiving party is easy. You can thank me later 🙂 

Firstly, create a guest list. Whether your loved ones are coming, close friends, neighbors down the street, whoever – you need to get a head count so you know how much food to make. 

Secondly, if you haven’t already, put up some Thanksgiving decor around the house. For example, I usually decorate with harvest boxes, butternut squash planters and always a cornucopia. Additionally, I always make sure my color theme is on point. For instance, use hues that compliment the season – oranges, browns, yellows and burgundies are all great starting points. 

Thirdly, create a Thanksgiving menu! Luckily, this post will help you decide what (if any) appetizers you’re going to serve. Obviously, you’ll have a Thanksgiving turkey…but plan out other foods you are going to have. Make sure you check with guests on any allergies or food sensitivities. 

Fourthly, join in on some family fun and find some Thanksgiving Games to play! Check out our post on the 10 Best Thanksgiving Day Party Games right here.

Lastly, plan out your Thanksgiving shopping (and make a grocery list)! We all know there’s nothing worse than running back and forth to the grocery store the day before or even on turkey day. Frantic shoppers always increase anxiety, trust me! 

So, on the best thanksgiving appetizers…

There isn’t a lot of time left, so let’s get to looking at our favorite Thanksgiving recipes for some delicious appetizers. Happy Turkey Day!

Roasted Butternut Squash and Ricotta Crostini

Pumpkin Pie Dip

Cranberry Baked Brie Puff Pastry

Marinated Mozzarella Cheese Balls

Veggie Tray

Bacon Wrapped Brussel Sprouts

Mushroom Crostini

Mashed Potato Puffs

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Cranberry-Glazed Meatballs

White Cheddar and Cranberry Sauce Dip

Feta Cheese Dip

Deviled Eggs

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Crostini

Pumpkin Hummus w/ Chickpeas

Pigs in a Blanket

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Baguette

Beet Salad on a Stick

Crispy Jalapeño Popper Dip with Olive Oil

Sweet Potato Bites with Pecans & Marshmallows

In conclusion on the best Thanksgiving appetizers…

Hopefully, you found some fun and delicious holiday appetizers (or even side dishes) for your Thanksgiving dinner. Moreover, make sure you take time to put the apron down and enjoy quality moments with family and friends.

Lastly, we are so thankful for all of our readers…please enjoy the holiday and let us know if you have any appetizer questions!

If you liked this article on the best Thanksgiving appetizers, check out these:

10 Best Thanksgiving Day Party Games

40+ Thanksgiving Side Dishes