As you get ready to welcome the new year, you’re probably thinking about the perfect appetizers. There are so many choices, it can be hard to pick the best ones for your party. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of easy and tasty appetizers for New Year’s. They offer a variety of flavors and ingredients for everyone’s taste.
We’ve got you covered with our selection of New Year’s appetizers. You’ll find over 25 easy and delicious options to impress your guests. Whether you want something classic or something new, our appetizers are sure to be a hit.
Pigs in a Blanket
These little bites are always a crowd-pleaser! Juicy sausages wrapped in flaky, buttery pastry – they’re perfect for snacking while waiting for the New Year’s countdown.
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 ounces) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 16 cocktail sausages or mini hot dogs
Steps
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate into triangles. Place one sausage at the wide end of each triangle and roll up to the point. Place on a baking sheet.
Time Cooking
Approximately 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Fried Mac and Cheese Balls
These crispy, golden balls of cheesy goodness are the ultimate comfort food appetizer. They’re perfect for a fun and festive New Year’s Eve celebration!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni and cheese (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Steps
Allow the mac and cheese to cool slightly. Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of mac and cheese and form into small balls. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper mixed together. Dredge each ball in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the panko mixture. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Carefully place the mac and cheese balls in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
Time Cooking
Approximately 8-10 minutes (frying time), plus time to cool the mac and cheese.
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Easy Cheeseburger Sliders
These mini-burgers are the perfect bite-sized treat for any party! They’re easy to make and are always a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 slider buns
- 4 slices of your favorite cheese, cut into quarters
- Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, pickles, lettuce, etc.
Steps
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well, and form the mixture into 8 small patties. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. During the last minute of cooking, place a cheese quarter on top of each patty to melt. Place each patty on a slider bun and add desired toppings.
Time Cooking
Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Okay, I’ve got the list. Here we go!
Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball
This savory cheese ball is packed with flavor and texture, perfect for spreading on crackers or veggies. It’s a great make-ahead appetizer for your New Year’s celebration.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Crackers or vegetables, for serving
Steps
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. Form the mixture into a ball. Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. Serve with crackers or vegetables.
Time Cooking
Approximately 30 minutes chilling time, no cooking required.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops
These elegant bites are a delicious combination of sweet scallops and salty bacon. Perfect for a sophisticated New Year’s Eve appetizer.
Ingredients
- 12 large sea scallops
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper. Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick, if needed. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
Time Cooking
Approximately 12-15 minutes.
Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip
This warm, creamy dip is a classic for a reason! Serve it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or vegetables for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 14 ounces artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, tortilla chips, or vegetables, for serving
Steps
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown. Serve warm with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or vegetables.
Time Cooking
Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Toasted Ravioli
These crispy, cheesy bites are a fun twist on traditional ravioli. Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 package (20-25) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Steps
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with Italian bread crumbs, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper mixed together. Dredge each ravioli in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the bread crumb mixture. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Carefully place the ravioli in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Serve with marinara sauce.
Time Cooking
Approximately 8-10 minutes (frying time).
Vegetarian Stuffed Mushrooms
These savory mushrooms are packed with flavor and make a great appetizer for everyone, especially those who prefer a vegetarian option.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large white or cremini mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the stems from the mushrooms and finely chop them. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems, onion, and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. In a bowl, combine the cooked vegetable mixture, quinoa or breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Fill each mushroom cap with the stuffing mixture. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Time Cooking
Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Homemade Taquitos
These crispy, rolled tacos are a fun and flavorful appetizer that’s easy to customize.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken or beef, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 10-12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, extra salsa
Steps
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken or beef, cheese, and salsa. Warm the tortillas slightly in a microwave or skillet to make them more pliable. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of each tortilla. Roll up the tortillas tightly. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the taquitos in the hot oil, seam-side down. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Serve with your favorite toppings.
Time Cooking
Approximately 10-15 minutes (frying time)
Turkey Pinwheels
These colorful and easy-to-make pinwheels are a great grab-and-go appetizer for a crowd.
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces sliced turkey breast
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Steps
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over each tortilla. Layer the turkey slices, cheddar cheese, red bell pepper, and green onions over the cream cheese. Roll up each tortilla tightly. Slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange on a platter.
Time Cooking
No cooking required. Simply assembly
Classic Deviled Eggs
These creamy, tangy deviled eggs are a timeless appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
Steps
Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes. Transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool. Peel the cooled eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a medium bowl. Mash the yolks with a fork. Add the mayonnaise, mustard, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Fill each egg white with the yolk mixture. Sprinkle with paprika.
Time Cooking
Approximately 15-20 minutes total, including cooling.
Salmon Bites
These flavorful salmon bites are a delicious and sophisticated appetizer.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cooked salmon, flaked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crackers or small toasts, for serving
Steps
In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, mayonnaise, red onion, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Serve the salmon mixture on crackers or small toasts.
Time Cooking
No cooking required, if using pre-cooked salmon.
Mashed Potato Balls
These creamy mashed potato balls are a delicious and comforting appetizer that’s perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: chopped chives, shredded cheese for adding to mashed potatoes
Steps
Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly. Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of mashed potatoes and form into small balls. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with panko, garlic powder, salt, and pepper mixed together. Dredge each ball in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the panko mixture. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Carefully place the mashed potato balls in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
Time Cooking
Approximately 10-15 minutes (frying time).
Baked Mozzarella Sticks
These crispy, cheesy sticks are a delightful appetizer that’s much healthier than the fried version but just as satisfying. Get ready for that gooey cheese pull!
Ingredients
- 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Steps
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with panko, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper mixed together. Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the panko mixture. Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with olive oil.
Time Cooking
Approximately 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Whipped Ricotta Crostini
These creamy and flavorful crostini are a simple yet elegant appetizer perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, whole milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Optional toppings: honey, fresh herbs, roasted peppers
Steps
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whip with a fork or spoon until light and creamy. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush with the remaining olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted. Top each toasted baguette slice with the whipped ricotta mixture. Add optional toppings if desired and serve.
Time Cooking
Approximately 10-15 minutes.
Cheesy Garlic Bread
This warm and comforting garlic bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect side or appetizer for any party.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian or French bread
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Steps
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the bread in half lengthwise. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.
Time Cooking
Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Homemade Tater Tots with Bacon
These crispy, homemade tater tots are elevated with the addition of smoky bacon. They’re a fun and flavorful appetizer for a festive celebration.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded russet potatoes, squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Steps
In a large bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, flour, Parmesan cheese, bacon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and form into small tater tot shapes. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Carefully place the tater tots in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
Time Cooking
Approximately 10-15 minutes (frying time).
Whipped Feta Dip
This light and tangy dip is bursting with flavor and is perfect for serving with pita bread, crackers, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Pita bread, crackers, or vegetables, for serving
Steps
In a food processor, combine the feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Process until smooth and creamy. Transfer the whipped feta to a serving bowl. Serve with pita bread, crackers, or vegetables.
Time Cooking
No cooking required.
Jalapeño Poppers
These spicy and cheesy poppers are a classic appetizer that’s always a hit.
Ingredients
- 6 large jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil spray
Steps
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, green onions, and garlic powder. Mix well. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time Cooking
Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Sourdough Crackers with Sesame Seeds
These crispy and flavorful crackers are perfect for pairing with cheeses, dips, and other appetizers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough starter, discard only
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Additional sea salt, for topping
Steps
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the sourdough starter discard, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Mix well. Spread the mixture very thinly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and a pinch of sea salt. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Allow the crackers to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Time Cooking
Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Marinated Mozzarella Balls
These fresh mozzarella balls, marinated in herbs and olive oil, make a simple yet elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces small mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Steps
In a jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the mozzarella balls. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours, in the refrigerator. Serve with a slotted spoon.
Time Cooking
Approximately 30 minutes for marinating, no cooking required.
Antipasto Skewers
These colorful skewers are a fun and customizable appetizer that’s perfect for a party.
Ingredients
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 12 small mozzarella balls
- 12 slices of salami or prosciutto, folded
- 12 marinated artichoke hearts
- 12 fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
Steps
Thread the ingredients onto small skewers, alternating the tomatoes, mozzarella balls, salami or prosciutto, artichoke hearts, and basil leaves. Arrange the skewers on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Time Cooking
No cooking required. Simply assembly.
Spinach Deviled Eggs
These vibrant green deviled eggs are a tasty twist on a classic appetizer.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup cooked spinach, finely chopped and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
Steps
Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes. Transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool. Peel the cooled eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a medium bowl. Mash the yolks with a fork. Add the spinach, mayonnaise, mustard, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Fill each egg white with the yolk mixture. Sprinkle with paprika.
Time Cooking
Approximately 15-20 minutes total, including cooling.
Mini Cheese Balls
These adorable mini cheese balls are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (optional)
- Optional coatings: chopped herbs, paprika, everything bagel seasoning
- Crackers or vegetables, for serving
Steps
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well. Stir in toasted nuts if desired. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture and form into small balls. Roll the cheese balls in your desired coatings. Chill the cheese balls for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. Serve with crackers or vegetables.
Time Cooking
Approximately 30 minutes chilling time, no cooking required.
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