10 Thanksgiving Appetizers So Good, You Might Skip the Turkey

Who says the main course has to steal the show? These Thanksgiving appetizers are so flavorful, creative, and crowd-pleasing that you might just forget there’s a turkey waiting in the oven. From savory bites to seasonal dips, these starters will have everyone reaching for seconds before dinner even begins.

Cranberry Brie Bites

These mini puff pastry cups filled with creamy brie and tangy cranberry sauce are a holiday hit. Warm, flaky, and perfectly portioned, they’re a festive blend of sweet and savory that disappears in minutes.

Butternut Squash Soup Shooters

Serve a velvety butternut squash soup in shot glasses for an elegant, sippable appetizer. Top with a swirl of cream and toasted pumpkin seeds for a gourmet touch that feels straight out of a cozy restaurant.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Sweet, chewy dates meet smoky, crispy bacon for the ultimate bite-sized indulgence. Add a little goat cheese inside for a creamy surprise that elevates this classic to holiday-worthy perfection.

Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips

A fall twist on a classic dip—pumpkin hummus blends earthy chickpeas with warm spices and pumpkin purée. Serve it with crunchy pita chips or fresh veggies for a light yet flavorful starter.

Mini Spinach and Artichoke Cups

All the cheesy goodness of a spinach-artichoke dip, baked into mini phyllo shells for easy eating. These crispy, creamy bites are guaranteed to disappear before the first course hits the table.

Sweet Potato Crostini

Swap bread for roasted sweet potato rounds and top with goat cheese, pecans, and a drizzle of honey. It’s a gluten-free, flavor-packed appetizer that celebrates fall in every bite.

Maple-Glazed Sausage Bites

Little smoky sausages caramelized in a maple-brown sugar glaze bring the perfect balance of sweet and salty. They’re an easy, irresistible appetizer that doubles as a crowd favorite for all ages.

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Tarts

Rich caramelized onions paired with nutty Gruyère cheese on puff pastry make a decadent and aromatic starter. They look fancy but are surprisingly simple to pull together—ideal for impressing guests.

Deviled Eggs with a Holiday Twist

Give classic deviled eggs a seasonal upgrade with a dash of smoked paprika, crispy bacon bits, or even a hint of maple syrup. They’re creamy, nostalgic, and always the first platter to empty.

Stuffed Mushrooms with Herbed Cream Cheese

Savory mushrooms filled with garlic, herbs, and creamy cheese make the perfect warm bite. Pop them in the oven right before serving, and let the irresistible aroma draw everyone to the table.

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