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    Home » Recipes » Appetizers

    37 Easy Appetizers for a Crowd

    Published: Nov 17, 2021 by Kelly Stilwell · This post may contain affiliate links Leave a Comment

    Appetizers in a collage for Pinterest.

    Making appetizers for a crowd does not have to be difficult. There are so many easy party recipes you can put together with little effort.

    Whether you're looking for easy cold appetizers or fancier hot appetizers for your swanky soirée, you'll find lots of amazing, easy party recipes ideas here.

    Also check out this list of Italian appetizer recipes and this list of delicious homemade cream cheese dip recipes for more ideas.

    Jump to:
    • 36 Delicious Appetizers for a Party
    • Authentic Maryland Crab Dip Recipe
    • Oven Baked French Dip Sliders
    • Festive Sweet Potato Bites
    • Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe
    • Easy Italian Stromboli Crescent Rolls
    • Simple Charcuterie Board with Easy Directions!
    • Easy Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms
    • Delicious Hot Shrimp Dip
    • Best Bruschetta Recipe
    • Delicious white bean dip recipe makes the perfect appetizer!
    • Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese
    • Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Appetizer
    • Easy Baba Ghanoush Recipe
    • Delicious Tomato Tarts!
    • Red Pepper Dip ~ Muhammara
    • Bruschetta with Fresh Mozzarella
    • Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Dipping Sauce
    • Mini Sausage Calzones
    • Easy, Elegant Italian Meatball Bread Braid
    • Roasted Pepper Cheese Bites
    • Fig and Blue Cheese Bites
    • Amazing Roast Beef and Garlic Toast Points Appetizer!
    • Pear, Fig & Cheese Tart
    • Delicious Bacon Straws Appetizer
    • Margarita Style Pork Spare Ribs
    • Homemade Cranberry Salsa
    • Vegan Hummus Recipe
    • Authentic Mexican Salsa Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes
    • Seven Layer Dip Cups
    • Baked Jalapeno Poppers
    • Dynamite Shrimp Tempura (w/ Sriracha Aioli)
    • Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe
    • Hot Onion Spinach Dip
    • Buffalo Chicken Dip
    • Nanchos Recipe - Indian Inspired Nachos For Your Next Party
    • French Dip Sliders
    • Easy BLT Dip
    • Brie and Potato Tarts
    • FAQs
    • More Festive Appetizers

    Preparing a bunch of easy appetizers for a crowd is a great way to serve food at a party without having to worry about place settings and all that comes hosting a sit-down meal.

    I always have cheese for a charcuterie board as well as charcuterie board condiments which really take the board to another level!

    A vegetable and dip platter is always a good idea for those who have food allergies.

    It's important to have something for everyone, like these easy vegan stuffed mushrooms that are also gluten-free. People can start munching on those the minute they arrive.

    The more substantial appetizers can come out in waves, and you'll always have those guests who insist on bringing something. Let them!

    Serve these popular appetizers on pretty platters along with cocktails, mocktails, or wine. Choose from these easy holiday cocktails or these martini cocktails. This skinny Vodka Margarita recipe and this French Martini are a couple of my favorites!

    And if you're a fan of cream cheese (so many good ideas!) you have to try a few from this list of easy cream cheese appetizers.

    Feeding a large crowd will be a piece of cake! And speaking of cake, be sure to have something sweet at the end of the evening. Check out these Italian dessert recipes for ideas.

    36 Delicious Appetizers for a Party

    Authentic Maryland Crab Dip Recipe

    This Maryland crab dip recipe is one of my favorite appetizers. I’ve been eating Chesapeake Bay Maryland blue crab all my life, and this is a recipe from years of eating crab dip!
    Check out this recipe
    Authentic Maryland Crab Dip Recipe

    Oven Baked French Dip Sliders

    These Oven Baked French Dip Sliders are perfect for game day or a busy weeknight dinner for the whole family. Easy to make and so delicious!
    Check out this recipe
    Oven Baked French Dip Sliders

    Festive Sweet Potato Bites

    These festive sweet potato bites are so delicious and filling for an appetizer party! There’s no need to knock yourself out by cooking all day when you can have appetizers that are flavorful and easy!
    Check out this recipe
    Festive Sweet Potato Bites

    Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe

    Buffalo chicken meatballs are the perfect easy appetizer. A great choice for a cocktail party or tailgate, meatballs are always delicious.
    Check out this recipe
    Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe

    Easy Italian Stromboli Crescent Rolls

    These delicious Italian Stromboli crescent rolls are easy to make and perfect for a party!
    Check out this recipe
    Italian Stromboli Crescent Rolls on a cutting board.

    Simple Charcuterie Board with Easy Directions!

    This meat and cheese board is perfect for serving at a gathering or at home. It’s a great way to spice up your celebration, even if you’re only celebrating with your family!
    Check out this recipe
    Simple Charcuterie Board with Easy Directions!

    Easy Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms

    These artichoke stuffed mushrooms are not only delicious - they’re vegan and gluten-free! Super easy to make, these will be your new favorite healthy appetizer!
    Check out this recipe
    Easy Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms

    Delicious Hot Shrimp Dip

    This hot shrimp dip recipe is so easy to make and turns out delicious every time. We love shrimp and we’re always finding new ways to enjoy it. You’ll love this one!
    Check out this recipe
    Delicious Hot Shrimp Dip

    Best Bruschetta Recipe

    This bruschetta is one of my favorite make ahead appetizers. When making this for a party, you can prepare the tomato mixture and keep it in the fridge until party time. Slice the bread and store it in a baggie. This can be on the table in minutes!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Bruschetta Recipe

    Delicious white bean dip recipe makes the perfect appetizer!

    This White Bean Dip recipe is so popular, and it is easy to see why. Packed with flavor, this creamy dip is a healthier option than sour cream-based dips, and it will be a huge hit at your next party.
    Check out this recipe
    Delicious white bean dip recipe makes the perfect appetizer!

    Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese

    I think I get more requests for this easy appetizer recipe than any other. Made with just 3 ingredients, you won't believe the flavor! My family begs me to make these!
    Check out this recipe
    Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese

    Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Appetizer

    This Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Appetizer recipe takes so little time and has just three ingredients! If you’ve never tried this starter, you’re in for a treat. Whether this is your first time making
    Check out this recipe
    Cream Cheese and Pepper Jelly Appetizer

    Easy Baba Ghanoush Recipe

    This easy Baba Ghanoush recipe is going to be your new favorite appetizer. It is seriously so good and so simple to make.
    Check out this recipe
    Easy Baba Ghanoush Recipe

    Delicious Tomato Tarts!

    This delicious recipe for tomato tarts will be your new favorite for a quick and easy appetizer! With life being so busy, it’s nice to be able to serve a pretty & elegant appetizer that doesn’t hours!
    Check out this recipe
    Delicious Tomato Tarts!

    Red Pepper Dip ~ Muhammara

    Such a delicious and easy recipe, so full of rich flavor and nutrition! This is a great appetizer for a party as it's festive, too! It's one of my favorite party dips. Serve with pita chips.
    Check out this recipe
    Red Pepper Dip ~ Muhammara

    Bruschetta with Fresh Mozzarella

    Bruschetta with fresh mozzarella makes a tasty appetizer with a glass of wine. And it's easy to make dinner out of three or four of these delicious appetizers!
    Check out this recipe

    Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Dipping Sauce

    Broiled Bacon Wrapped Scallops is the perfect appetizer for a dinner party! These little bites are so easy to make and so delicious. The sauce has a sweet and spicy flavor and the recipe is included!
    Check out this recipe
    Bacon Wrapped Scallops with Dipping Sauce

    Mini Sausage Calzones

    This recipe for Mini sausage calzones with parmesan cheese is so easy and your guests will rave over them! These are perfect appetizers for a party.
    Check out this recipe
    Mini Sausage Calzones

    Easy, Elegant Italian Meatball Bread Braid

    My friends rave about this delicious recipe for Italian Meatball Bread Braid, and the presentation is so beautiful. It’s so easy and perfect starter for a party!
    Check out this recipe
    Easy, Elegant Italian Meatball Bread Braid

    Roasted Pepper Cheese Bites

    This recipe for Roasted Pepper Cheese Bites is so easy! Have party guests dropping over on the fly? No worries! You can make these in minutes with simple ingredients!
    Check out this recipe
    Roasted Pepper Cheese Bites

    Fig and Blue Cheese Bites

    These heavenly fig and blue cheese bites are a classic appetizer! I love both figs and blue cheese, but paired, they are just delicious. Add this to your easiest recipes!
    Check out this recipe

    Amazing Roast Beef and Garlic Toast Points Appetizer!

    This recipe for Roast Beef and Garlic Toast Points is the perfect finger food for your next party. With a ton of flavor, these can be put together in minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    Roast beef, arugula, and blue cheese dressing on costini.

    Pear, Fig & Cheese Tart

    What could be better than a pear, fig, and cheese tart recipe made with delicious gouda from Wisconsin Cheese? Two of them!
    Check out this recipe
    Pear, Fig & Cheese Tart

    Delicious Bacon Straws Appetizer

    Perfectly crisp bacon wrapped around a thin rosemary breadstick is the best idea ever! Who wouldn’t love bacon straws? These are such yummy bites.
    Check out this recipe
    Delicious Bacon Straws Appetizer

    Margarita Style Pork Spare Ribs

    You can’t go wrong with this easy pork spare ribs recipe. These are perfect for a dinner at home and easy to pack up for a tailgate party!
    Check out this recipe
    Margarita Style Pork Spare Ribs

    Homemade Cranberry Salsa

    This recipe for Homemade Cranberry Salsa produced the best salsa I have ever tasted!
    Check out this recipe
    Homemade Cranberry Salsa

    Vegan Hummus Recipe

    This vegan hummus recipe was one of my favorite foods when I was in Jordan last year. Even after eating it every day, I never grew tired of eating it! The pomegranate seeds give it the perfect sweetness!
    Check out this recipe
    Vegan Hummus Recipe

    Authentic Mexican Salsa Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes

    Making this authentic Mexican salsa recipe with fresh tomatoes has been on my list forever. I adore salsa and this recipe is delicious!
    Check out this recipe
    Authentic Mexican Salsa Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes

    Seven Layer Dip Cups

    Seven layer dip is the perfect party food for any get together! It’s an easy party food that will not only be a big hit but you’ll never have to worry about double dipping!
    Check out this recipe
    Seven Layer Dip Cups

    Baked Jalapeno Poppers

    These mouthwatering baked jalapeno poppers not only taste amazing but with just four ingredients, it’s one of the easiest appetizers you can possibly make!
    Check out this recipe
    Baked Jalapeno Poppers

    Dynamite Shrimp Tempura (w/ Sriracha Aioli)

    Crispy dynamite shrimp just like the restaurants! The spicy sriracha aioli is slightly sweet making every bite perfect!
    Check out this recipe
    Dynamite Shrimp Tempura (w/ Sriracha Aioli)

    Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe

    This Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe is an easy holiday appetizer made with just a few ingredients that everyone will love. Great make ahead recipe that can be served during the holiday season or any time of year. Serve with crackers.
    Check out this recipe
    Christmas Cheese Ball Recipe

    Hot Onion Spinach Dip

    Hot Onion Spinach Dip is a classic dip and a welcome addition to any holiday party or special occasion. You'll love this five-ingredient recipe! Serve with toasted sliced bread or tortilla chips.
    Check out this recipe
    Hot Onion Spinach Dip

    Buffalo Chicken Dip

    One of my favorite hot dips, this one is paired with gooey cheddar cheese and ranch and buffalo sauce. The Buffalo Chicken Dip is a low-carb snack you can enjoy guilt-free!
    Check out this recipe
    Buffalo Chicken Dip

    Nanchos Recipe - Indian Inspired Nachos For Your Next Party

    With this recipe you can take the classic American-style nachos and create an Indian inspired dish that is perfect for parties. You'll love these bold flavors!
    Check out this recipe
    Nanchos Recipe - Indian Inspired Nachos For Your Next Party

    French Dip Sliders

    This French Dip Sliders recipe will have you wishing you had make more of them after the very first bite! This may be your new favorite appetizer!
    Check out this recipe
    French Dip Sliders

    Easy BLT Dip

    This super easy BLT dip is tasty and great for entertaining. The sour cream and mayo blend with the bacon gives this dip fabulous flavor. Serve with bread, chips or some healthy fresh vegetables. It will not disappoint!
    Check out this recipe
    Easy BLT Dip

    Brie and Potato Tarts

    Brie and Potato Tarts are the perfect delicious snack to being a touch of elegance to any gathering! Made with the recipe (included) for puff pastry or store bought (no judging!), this one is definitely a crowd pleaser!
    Check out this recipe
    Brie and Potato Tarts

    FAQs

    How many appetizers should I plan on per person?

    If your party is scheduled around dinner time and you are only serving appetizers, you should plan on 6-8 servings per person.

    Can I make these party appetizers ahead of time?

    You can make all these ahead of time. If the dish needs to be warm, just pop it in the oven for 15 minutes (longer if it's cold) before serving. If the dish is served on bread, crackers, or lettuce, wait until you're ready to serve to put the appetizers together. If taking to a gathering, store the cracker or bread in a separate container so nothing gets soggy.

    What is the best appetizer to serve?

    In my opinion, the best appetizers for a crowd would be a charcuterie tray with a lot of different meats, cheeses, spreads, and a big basket of sliced toasted bread. This will be the star of any gathering. Add a few of the above recipes and you'll be set.

    As I said, serving appetizers for a crowd doesn't have to be difficult. I hope you have some new favorites from this list of appetizers for a crowd. Let me know which one is your favorite!

    Enjoy your gathering and remember the rules of a great party; always have food, and drink responsibly.

    More Festive Appetizers

    • Irish Appetizers for St. Patrick's Day
    • 20 Easy Appetizers for New Year's Eve
    • Best Halloween Snacks
    • Last Minute Weight Watchers Appetizers

    This post first appeared on Food, Fun & Faraway Places on December 29, 2015.

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