How many appetizers should I plan per guest?
A common rule is 3–5 pieces per person before a meal, or more for a grazing-only spread. Scale batch sizes on each recipe card.
Appetizer Recipes
49 recipes found
Appetizer recipes set the tone for dinner parties and game nights—bites that scale, travel, and leave room for the main event.
Mix hot and cold options, then pull related dinner recipes so the rest of the evening already has a plan.
Simple Authentic Guacamole
A quick and easy guacamole recipe using fresh, authentic ingredients. Perfect as a dip or topping!
Patatas Bravas
Classic Spanish tapas dish featuring crispy fried potatoes smothered in a spicy tomato sauce and creamy aioli.
Apple Carrot Shrimp Fritters with Creamy Dill Sauce
Savory and slightly sweet fritters featuring shrimp, grated apple and carrot, bound with flour and served with a tangy dill cream sauce.
Shaken Margarita
A classic margarita recipe with a focus on proper shaking technique for optimal dilution and flavor.
Smoked Maple Old Fashioned
The 'Smoked Maple Old Fashioned' is a sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail, infusing the rich warmth of bourbon with the smoky sweetness of maple and a hint of orange. This cocktail is perfect for cozy evenings or as a refined addition to any gathering.
James Beard Award-winning Buffalo Chicken Dip
This Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect appetizer for game day or any party! Creamy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of spice, it's always a crowd-pleaser.
Smoked Paprika Deviled Eggs
A delightful appetizer of deviled eggs with a smoky twist, topped with crispy fried shallots.
Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned
A sophisticated and balanced bourbon cocktail, perfect for any occasion.
The Ultimate Cosmopolitan
A sophisticated twist on the classic Cosmopolitan, using premium ingredients and precise measurements for a perfectly balanced and unforgettable cocktail.
Gourmet Pigs in a Blanket
Elevate your pigs in a blanket with gourmet sausages and homemade pastry. A delightful appetizer or snack!
Goat Cheese and Mushroom Tart
A savory tart with creamy goat cheese, earthy mushrooms, and a flaky crust. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
James Beard Award-winning Buffalo Chicken Dip
An award-winning buffalo chicken dip recipe, perfect for parties and game days. Creamy, spicy, and utterly irresistible!
Shrimp Ceviche
A vibrant and flavorful shrimp ceviche recipe, perfect as an appetizer or light meal. The combination of fresh shrimp, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño creates a zesty and refreshing dish.
Riggs Spritz
A refreshing and sophisticated spritz, perfect for any occasion. The Riggs Spritz balances bitter and sweet notes with a delightful fizz.
James Beard Amaretto Sour
A meticulously crafted Amaretto Sour for the discerning palate, ensuring a luxurious experience.
Oaxaca Old Fashioned
A refreshing and complex tequila cocktail that offers a delightful departure from the classic margarita.
Bourbon Renewal
A refreshing and complex bourbon cocktail, perfect for sipping.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Savory stuffed mushrooms with Italian sausage, herbs, and parmesan cheese.
Frequently asked questions
Can appetizers be made ahead?
Many dips, skewers, and chilled bites hold well. Look for make-ahead notes in the steps.
Do appetizers link to full dinners?
Yes—use related cuisine or dinner hubs after you pick starters so mains and sides stay thematically consistent.