13 Quick Thanksgiving Appetizers You Can Make in 15 Minutes or Less

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, delicious food, and, of course, appetizers that please the crowd. If you're short on time but still want to impress your guests, we've got a collection of tasty bites that can be whipped up in 15 minutes or less. Get ready to make your holiday spread shine with these quick and easy recipes!

Quick And Easy Cheese Board Ideas

Creating a cheese board is a fun and simple way to impress your guests this Thanksgiving. The image shows a beautiful spread featuring creamy brie, a variety of cheeses, crunchy crackers, and fresh grapes. The addition of honey and nuts adds a touch of sweetness and texture, making it a delightful appetizer.

Start by selecting a few types of cheese. Brie is always a crowd-pleaser, but you can also include sharp cheddar or a tangy blue cheese for variety. Arrange the cheeses on a wooden board, cutting some into slices for easy serving. Next, add an assortment of crackers; choose different shapes and flavors to keep things interesting.

Don’t forget to include some fresh fruit! Grapes are a great choice, as they pair well with cheese. You can also add apple slices or dried fruits for extra sweetness. A small bowl of honey drizzled over the cheese adds a lovely touch. Finally, sprinkle some nuts around the board for crunch and flavor.

This cheese board is not only quick to assemble but also visually appealing, making it perfect for your Thanksgiving gathering. Everyone will love picking at the delicious options!

Ingredients

• 1 wheel of brie cheese
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 ounces blue cheese
• 1 box of assorted crackers
• 1 cup of fresh grapes
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)

Instructions

1. Arrange the cheeses on a large wooden board or platter.
2. Cut the brie into wedges and slice the cheddar and blue cheese into bite-sized pieces.
3. Place the crackers around the cheeses, varying the types for texture.
4. Add the fresh grapes in clusters for a pop of color.
5. Drizzle honey over the brie and place the nuts in small piles around the board.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy the compliments!

Savory Spinach And Feta Puff Pastry Bites

These savory spinach and feta puff pastry bites are the perfect appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. They are quick to make and packed with flavor. The golden, flaky pastry holds a delicious filling of spinach and creamy feta cheese, making each bite a delightful treat.

To prepare these bites, you'll need some simple ingredients. Start with store-bought puff pastry for ease. Fresh spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and a hint of garlic will create a tasty filling. Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear!

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into squares, about 3 inches each.
3. In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, feta cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each pastry square.
5. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and pinch to seal.
6. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Arrange the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side.

Sweet And Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Sweet and spicy bacon-wrapped dates are a fantastic appetizer for Thanksgiving. They combine the sweetness of dates with the savory crunch of bacon, creating a delightful bite-sized treat. The addition of a hint of spice adds a fun twist that your guests will love.

These little bites are simple to prepare and can be made in just 15 minutes. They look great on a platter and are sure to impress everyone at your gathering. The combination of flavors is perfect for the holiday season, making them a must-try!

Ingredients

• 12 large Medjool dates
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit.
3. If using, sprinkle a little cayenne pepper inside each date for some heat.
4. Wrap each date with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
5. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle honey over the wrapped dates for added sweetness.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.

Flavorful Stuffed Mushrooms In Minutes

Stuffed mushrooms are a fantastic choice for Thanksgiving appetizers. They’re quick to make and bursting with flavor. These little bites are perfect for impressing your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The image shows a beautiful plate of golden-brown stuffed mushrooms, topped with fresh herbs, ready to be devoured.

The mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture that can include cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. This combination creates a delightful texture and taste that pairs well with the holiday spirit. Plus, they’re easy to customize based on your favorite ingredients!

To make these stuffed mushrooms, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients and about 15 minutes of your time. They’re a great way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast and will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients

• 12 large mushrooms, stems removed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture, pressing it down gently.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15 minutes or until the tops are golden and the mushrooms are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Savory Turkey And Cranberry Bites

These Savory Turkey and Cranberry Bites are a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving spread. They combine tender turkey with a touch of sweet cranberry sauce, all nestled in a flaky pastry cup. Perfect for a quick appetizer, these bites are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering.

To make these bites, you’ll need some cooked turkey, cranberry sauce, and a few herbs for garnish. The combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests, and the best part? You can whip them up in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 package of pre-made pastry cups
• Fresh rosemary or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the pastry cups on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix the shredded turkey with cranberry sauce until well combined.
4. Spoon the turkey mixture into each pastry cup, filling them generously.
5. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley before serving.

Hearty Bruschetta Topped With Fresh Ingredients

Bruschetta is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. It’s simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. The image showcases beautifully toasted bread topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, as it brings a touch of elegance without requiring hours in the kitchen.

To make this hearty bruschetta, start with a good quality baguette or ciabatta. Toast the slices until they are golden brown and crispy. While the bread is toasting, chop up ripe tomatoes and mix them with finely chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Once the bread is ready, pile on the tomato mixture and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for that extra zing.

This appetizer is not only quick to prepare but also allows for creativity. Feel free to add other toppings like mozzarella or olives to suit your taste. It’s a delightful way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast!

Ingredients

• 1 baguette or ciabatta, sliced
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet.
2. Toast the bread in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven and top each slice with the tomato mixture.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the bruschetta and serve immediately.

Delicious Deviled Eggs With Unique Flavors

Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer that never goes out of style. They are simple to make and can be dressed up in so many ways. The image shows a beautiful platter of deviled eggs topped with crispy bacon bits and fresh herbs. These little bites are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any Thanksgiving gathering.

To make these deviled eggs, you start by boiling eggs until they are hard. Once cooled, peel and slice them in half. Remove the yolks and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, and your choice of spices. For a twist, add ingredients like avocado, sriracha, or even smoked paprika. After mixing, spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites. Top with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chives for that extra crunch and flavor.

This recipe is quick and can be made in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for last-minute preparations. Everyone will love the unique flavors, and they will disappear fast!

Tangy Shrimp Cocktail In Individual Cups

Looking for a quick and tasty appetizer for Thanksgiving? These tangy shrimp cocktails in individual cups are perfect! They not only look great on the table but are also super easy to make. Each cup is filled with layers of shrimp, zesty cocktail sauce, and a hint of fresh herbs. Plus, serving them in cups makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

The shrimp are cooked and chilled, then layered with a delicious cocktail sauce and garnished with lemon and parsley. The individual servings add a fun touch to your holiday spread. You can prepare these in just 15 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities!

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cocktail sauce
• 1/2 cup diced avocado
• 1/4 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cups: In small clear cups, layer the diced avocado at the bottom.
2. Add the Shrimp: Place a layer of shrimp on top of the avocado.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cocktail sauce with lemon juice. Spoon this mixture over the shrimp.
4. Add Veggies: Top with diced cucumber and tomatoes for a fresh crunch.
5. Garnish: Finish with a sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge on the rim of each cup.
6. Serve: Arrange the cups on a platter and enjoy!

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip In A Snap

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. If you're looking for a quick appetizer that packs a punch, creamy spinach artichoke dip is the way to go. This dish is not only tasty but also super easy to whip up in just 15 minutes. Imagine a warm, cheesy dip that pairs perfectly with crispy crackers and fresh veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!

The image shows a beautiful spread featuring a bowl of creamy spinach artichoke dip surrounded by crunchy pita chips and colorful veggie sticks. The vibrant greens of the spinach and the creamy texture of the dip make it look irresistible. The warm, inviting setting adds to the cozy feel of a Thanksgiving gathering.

To make this dip, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. It’s perfect for those last-minute preparations or when you want something quick yet impressive. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve warm with pita chips, crackers, or fresh veggies. Enjoy!

Colorful Vegetable Spring Rolls With Dipping Sauce

These colorful vegetable spring rolls are a fantastic appetizer for Thanksgiving. They are fresh, crunchy, and packed with vibrant veggies. The rolls are easy to make and can be ready in just 15 minutes. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables, making them a fun and healthy choice for your holiday gathering.

To make these spring rolls, you’ll need rice paper wrappers, which are soft and pliable. Fill them with a mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and leafy greens. Serve them with a tasty dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• 8 rice paper wrappers
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, and green)
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup lettuce or spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup mint leaves (optional)
• 1/4 cup dipping sauce (sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Veggies: Wash and slice all the vegetables into thin strips. Set aside.
2. Soften the Rice Paper: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds until it becomes soft and pliable.
3. Fill the Wrapper: Lay the softened wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small amount of each vegetable and herbs in the center of the wrapper.
4. Roll It Up: Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll from the bottom up to enclose the filling completely.
5. Repeat: Continue with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Serve: Arrange the spring rolls on a platter and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Spicy Cheese-Stuffed Jalapeños

Spicy cheese-stuffed jalapeños are a fantastic appetizer that packs a punch. These little bites are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, offering a delightful mix of heat and creaminess. The image shows beautifully baked jalapeños topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh green onions. They look inviting and are sure to be a hit at your holiday table.

Making these jalapeños is quick and easy. You can whip them up in just 15 minutes, making them a stress-free option for your Thanksgiving spread. The combination of spicy jalapeños and rich cheese filling creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh jalapeños
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat, if desired.
3. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, packing it in generously.
5. Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Savory Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas

These Savory Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chickpeas are a fantastic way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and super easy to make in just 15 minutes. Perfect for snacking while waiting for the turkey to roast!

The image shows a bowl filled with golden-brown chickpeas, sprinkled with garlic and parmesan cheese. You can see a few scattered chickpeas and a sprinkle of salt around the bowl, adding to the inviting look of this dish. A garlic bulb and some herbs in the background hint at the delicious flavors packed into these little bites.

To make these roasted chickpeas, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. They are a great alternative to chips or other heavier appetizers. Plus, they’re healthy and satisfying!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Quick And Tasty Pesto Pinwheels

If you're looking for a fun and quick appetizer for Thanksgiving, pesto pinwheels are a fantastic choice. These delightful bites are not only easy to make, but they also bring a burst of flavor to your table. The vibrant green of the pesto against the soft tortilla wraps creates an inviting presentation. Plus, they are perfect for guests to grab and enjoy while mingling.

To make these pinwheels, you’ll need some simple ingredients. Start with tortillas, your favorite pesto, cream cheese, and some fresh veggies like tomatoes and bell peppers. The combination of creamy cheese and zesty pesto makes each bite a treat!

Once you have your ingredients ready, spread the cream cheese and pesto on the tortilla, layer in the veggies, roll it up tightly, and slice into pinwheels. It’s that easy! These pinwheels can be made in just 15 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup pesto
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Spread cream cheese evenly over each tortilla.
2. Layer pesto on top of the cream cheese.
3. Add diced tomatoes and bell peppers, sprinkling with salt and pepper.
4. Roll each tortilla tightly and slice into pinwheels.
5. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately or refrigerate until serving.