Thanksgiving appetizers are the perfect way to kick off your holiday feast! From easy bites to shareable platters, these tasty treats can bring everyone together while setting the stage for the main course. Whether you’re going for traditional flavors or a twist on the classics, there’s something for every palate to enjoy before diving into the turkey.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs
Stuffed mushrooms are a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. They are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a perfect choice for Thanksgiving gatherings. The combination of garlic, herbs, and a savory filling creates a delightful bite that pairs well with the festive atmosphere.
These mushrooms are typically filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and fresh herbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms complements the rich filling beautifully. Plus, they look stunning on any appetizer platter, adding a touch of elegance to your holiday spread.
To make these stuffed mushrooms, you’ll need some basic ingredients. Fresh mushrooms serve as the base, while garlic and herbs bring in the flavor. The filling can be customized with your favorite ingredients, such as cheese or nuts, to make it your own.
Ingredients
- 16 large mushrooms, stems removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the sautéed garlic to the breadcrumb mixture. If using, add the cream cheese and mix until well combined.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the filling, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed mushrooms!
Savory Sweet Potato Rounds
Sweet potato rounds make a delightful appetizer for any Thanksgiving gathering. They are simple to prepare and bring a warm, festive touch to your table. The vibrant orange color of the sweet potatoes adds a beautiful contrast to the autumn decor.
These rounds are topped with a creamy layer, often made from sour cream or Greek yogurt, and garnished with fresh chives. This combination creates a perfect balance of flavors, making them a hit among guests. They are not just tasty but also healthy, providing a nutritious option that everyone can enjoy.
To make these savory sweet potato rounds, you’ll need a few basic ingredients and a bit of time. They can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without stress.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and slightly crispy.
- Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly. Top each round with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Sprinkle chopped chives over the top for garnish and serve warm.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach and artichoke dip is a classic appetizer that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. This creamy dip is perfect for Thanksgiving, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy. The combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese creates a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips and fresh veggies.
To make this dip, you’ll need some simple ingredients. Start with fresh spinach, canned artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, and a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. The steps are easy and quick, making it a go-to recipe for busy hosts.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in chopped spinach, drained artichokes, minced garlic, and your cheese blend. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Serve it warm with tortilla chips, celery sticks, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful platter.
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
A cheese and charcuterie board is a fantastic way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. It brings together a variety of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can mix and match different cheeses, cured meats, fruits, and nuts to create a stunning display.
Start with a selection of cheeses. Think creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and tangy blue cheese. Pair them with cured meats like salami and prosciutto for a savory touch. Fresh fruits like grapes and blueberries add a pop of color and sweetness, while nuts provide a satisfying crunch.
Don’t forget to include some crackers or bread for a complete experience. You can also add dips or spreads like honey or mustard for extra flavor. The key is to arrange everything beautifully on a wooden board or platter. This not only looks great but also invites guests to help themselves.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 4 ounces blue cheese
- 6 ounces salami, sliced
- 6 ounces prosciutto, sliced
- 1 cup grapes
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup mixed nuts
- 1 box of assorted crackers
- Honey or mustard for dipping
Instructions
- Choose a large wooden board or platter for your arrangement.
- Start by placing the cheeses on the board, spacing them out evenly.
- Add the sliced cured meats around the cheeses, folding them for a nice presentation.
- Fill in the gaps with fresh fruits and nuts, creating a colorful display.
- Arrange the crackers in a separate section or alongside the cheeses.
- Finally, drizzle honey or place a small bowl of mustard on the board for dipping.
- Serve and enjoy the compliments from your guests!
Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving spread. These little treats combine creamy brie cheese with tart cranberry sauce, all nestled in a flaky pastry shell. They are perfect for snacking and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
To make these bites, you will need just a few simple ingredients. The combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Plus, they are easy to prepare, making them a great choice for busy holiday hosts.
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your pastry shells. Fill each shell with a slice of brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve them warm, and watch as they disappear from the platter!
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into squares or circles, depending on your preferred shape.
- Place the pastry pieces in a greased muffin tin, pressing them into the bottom and sides.
- Cut the brie into small pieces and place a piece in each pastry shell.
- Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Mini Pumpkin Quiches
Mini pumpkin quiches are a delightful way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. These bite-sized treats are not only cute but also packed with flavor. The creamy pumpkin filling, combined with savory spices, makes them a perfect appetizer for your holiday gathering.
To make these quiches, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with a flaky crust, which can be store-bought or homemade. The filling consists of pumpkin puree, eggs, cream, and a blend of spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. These ingredients come together to create a rich and comforting flavor that everyone will love.
Once baked, the quiches turn golden brown and are ready to impress your guests. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile option for your appetizer spread. Pair them with a fresh salad or a side of cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and cut it into small circles to fit a muffin tin. Press the circles into the muffin cups.
- In a bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the filling into each crust, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are lightly browned.
- Let them cool slightly before removing from the muffin tin. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.