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13 Quick and Easy Holiday Appetizers For Effortless Entertaining

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The holiday season is all about spending time with loved ones, but let’s be honest, it can also mean a mad dash to prepare for gatherings and feasts. If you’re looking to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen, you’re in luck!

These 13 quick and easy holiday appetizers are perfect for effortless entertaining. These crowd-pleasers are not only simple to throw together but are also guaranteed to get the party started right. From savory bites to delightful dips, these appetizers will leave your guests merry and your kitchen stress-free.

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Crockpot Little Smokies

Crock pot little smokies on a spoon over the slow cooker.
Crockpot Little Smokies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Set it and forget it with these Crockpot Little Smokies, a classic appetizer that’s as effortless as it is delicious. With just three ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a savory snack ready for munching. They’ve been a party favorite for years because they’re just that simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Little Smokies

Sausage Cheese Dip

Sausage cheese dip in a cast iron skillet topped with tomatoes and jalapenos.
Sausage Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

When you need a warm, gooey dip that’s a hit every time, this Sausage Cheese Dip is your answer. Just five simple ingredients, including Rotel, Velveeta, and cream cheese, come together for a dip that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s so easy to make, you’ll have more time to mingle with your guests.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Cheese Dip

Deviled Eggs

Holding a deviled egg sprinkled with paprika.
Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Classic Deviled Eggs are always a hit, and this version with pickle relish adds a tangy twist. They’re easy to whip up and can turn your appetizer spread into an eye-catching display. Plus, their subtle pickle flavor is sure to win over any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels

Puff pastry pinwheels on a round wooden cutting board.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Whip up a batch of these Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels for an appetizer that’s sure to spice up your party. They’re a cinch to make with crispy puff pastry wrapped around a creamy, bacon-filled jalapeño mixture. Pop them in the oven or air fryer, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing snack in no time.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheels

Smoked Gouda Cheese Dip

Gouda Cheese Sauce in a bowl with a fry being dipped into it.
Smoked Gouda Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Smoked Gouda Cheese Dip is a velvety, smoky sensation that’s perfect for dipping or drizzling over your favorite snacks. It’s a straightforward recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Serve this at your next party, and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda Cheese Dip

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bite size chestnuts wrapped in bacon on a toothpick.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

In need of a sweet and savory bite? Try these Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts, made effortlessly in the air fryer. They come out perfectly crispy and coated in a delightful sweet sauce, making them an irresistible appetizer for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Bowl of zucchini chips with parsley in front of two bowls of dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

For a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on crunch, these Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are your go-to. They’re coated with a mix of panko or pork rinds and parmesan, then air-fried. It’s a snack that’s as easy to make as it is guilt-free.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Garlic Cheese Balls

Pulling apart a garlic cheese ball filled with stringy mozzarella cheese.
Garlic Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Garlic Cheese Balls are the perfect mix of garlic flavor and gooey mozzarella, all wrapped up in a convenient, poppable size. Using refrigerator biscuits, they come together in a flash, whether you’re using an air fryer or oven. They’re a fun and cheesy side dish that doubles as a great snack.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Cheese Balls

Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Blooming onion on a plate with sauce in the background.
Air Fryer Blooming Onion. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Impress your guests with an Air Fryer Blooming Onion that’s surprisingly straightforward to create. This appetizer mimics the restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen, with less oil and fuss. It’s a show-stopping snack that’s easier than it looks to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Blooming Onion

Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with bacon in a glass deviled egg platter.
Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs take the beloved classic to new heights with an irresistibly savory ranch twist. Topped with crispy bacon, they’re the ultimate finger food that guests won’t be able to resist. Best of all, they’re as simple to make as they are delicious.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Closeup of someone dipping a pretzel bite in mustard sauce.
Air Fryer Pretzel Bites. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Transform canned biscuits into Air Fryer Pretzel Bites for a snack that’s both easy and addictive. These bite-sized treats are perfect for dunking into your favorite mustard sauce. They’re so quick to make, you’ll be enjoying them in no time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Mac and Cheese Bites

Mac and cheese bites with broccoli on a wooden cutting board.
Mac and Cheese Bites. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

These Mac and Cheese Bites are a dream come true for those who love their comfort food with a crispy edge. Topped with bacon and fried onions, they’re made in the air fryer for a quick and easy appetizer that’s creamy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. They’re the perfect way to indulge in mac and cheese in bite-size form.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese Bites

Shrimp Egg Rolls

Stack of egg rolls on a plate.
Shrimp Egg Rolls. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air Fryer Shrimp Egg Rolls are a fantastic way to bring a crispy, savory appetizer to the table with minimal effort. Packed with shrimp and veggies, they’re a delightful snack that’s perfect for sharing. Plus, they’re so quick to make, you’ll be rolling in compliments in no time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Egg Rolls

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Holiday appetizers are shown in a collage.
anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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