55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (2024)

Table of Contents
Bread Cornucopia and Cheese Mac + Cheese Donuts Rosemary Pecan Goat Cheese Truffles Crostini With Bleu Cheese and Roasted Grapes Gruyere, Mushroom, and Caramelized Onion Bites Cran-Sage Rolls Kabocha and Havarti Pockets Mushroom, Herb, and Gruyere Cheese Mini Turnovers Onion, Cranberry, and Pecan Cheese Ball Cranberry Baked Brie Puff Pastry Bites Pomegranate Jeweled White Cheddar, Toasted Almond, and Crispy Sage Cheeseball Tomato Jam and Cheddar Palmiers Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini Cha-Cha Chicken Salad Pumpkin Bacon Dip 5-Ingredient Caprese Phyllo Cups Pumpkin Dip Prosciutto-Fontina Pinwheels Sweet Potato Tartlets Sweet and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms Antipasto Skewers Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp Dip Quick Chicken Liver Pâté Bavarian Cheese and Beer Spread Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta Roasted Sweet Potato Harissa Hummus Lasagna Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms Spicy Marinated Cheese Italian Sausage and Bean Bruschetta Sweet Potato Salad With Bacon Prosciutto and Date Palmiers Caesar Twice Baked Potatoes Baked French Onion Meatballs Goat Cheese Risotto With Cherry Tomato Confit CAPRESE BRUSCHETTA WITH BASIL PESTO Puff Pastry Nibbles Stuffed Mushrooms 2-Ingredient Italian Sausage Rolls Bacon Kalamata Cheese Puffs Spicy Cajun Deviled Eggs Cheese Straws With Feta and Poppy Seeds KOREAN CREAM CHEESE GARLIC BREAD Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie Bites Dill Pickle Cheese Ball Crispy Boursin Arancini Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Pinwheels Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip Baked Brie With Cranberries And Pecans Roasted Carrot & Harissa Chickpea Dip Leek Quiche Recipe With Goat Cheese Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups (gluten-free) Cherry Arugula Farro Salad Easy Antipasto Skewers References

Whether you're celebrating with your family or having a cozy dinner for two, you want some time to sit back and relax on Turkey Day -- even enjoy some fun holiday games and activities while you wait for the turkey to brown. Make the day easier by whipping up any of these make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizer recipes and give yourself an actual Thanksgiving break.

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (1)

Bread Cornucopia and Cheese

Nothing says Thanksgiving like a cornucopia, so a bread cornucopia is the perfect appetizer centerpiece for your pre-feast party. (via Brit + Co)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (2)

Mac + Cheese Donuts

Not every appetizer has to be high rent. Whether you're prepping for Friendsgiving or an Turkey Day with your closest family, these delicious edibles will be a crowd pleaser. (via Brit + Co)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (3)

Rosemary Pecan Goat Cheese Truffles

These babies are actually pretty darn classy, and they showcase all the flavors of the spectrum. There's rosemary for herb lovers, pecan to add some nuttiness, and even Sriracha for a bit of heat. Pro tip: Serve with a basic crispy wafer so as not to detract from the spread. (via The Cafe Sucre Farine)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (4)

Crostini With Bleu Cheese and Roasted Grapes

This recipe takes almost no time to make. Slice up some bleu cheese and add grapes to your favorite baguette. (via Nerds With Knives)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (5)

Gruyere, Mushroom, and Caramelized Onion Bites

Add Gruyere, mushrooms, and caramelized onions to puffed pastry for a simple and delicious appetizer. And the best part is, you can make this up to 48 hours ahead of time, giving you plenty of wiggle room for your Turkey Day prep. (via Little Spice Jar)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (6)

Cran-Sage Rolls

Not only is there nothing wrong with using frozen dough once in a while, but it's actually kind of a perfect Thanksgiving treat. These rolls are flavored with cranberries and sage for an elegant holiday version of trust crescent rolls. (via Better Homes and Gardens)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (7)

Kabocha and Havarti Pockets

For those who don't already know, kabocha is a type of squash… which makes these appetizers perfect for your vegetarian guests. Prepare these pockets a few days before Thanksgiving, stick them in the fridge, and bake on the day of. (via I Will Not Eat Oysters)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (8)

Mushroom, Herb, and Gruyere Cheese Mini Turnovers

Mushrooms, herbs, and Gruyere cheese. What *doesn't* sound good about these turnovers? Cremini mushrooms and white wine give these otherwise totally casual finger foods an elegant, rich layer of flavor. (via Kendall-Jackson)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (9)

Onion, Cranberry, and Pecan Cheese Ball

Cheese balls are a classic appetizer. Add onion, cranberries, and pecans to make yours next-level. (via Real Housemoms)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (10)

Cranberry Baked Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Brie can get super messy. Make bites instead and pop some cranberry in them to Thanksgiving-ify. Serve with fresh cranberries or — our personal favorite — sweet cranberry sauce. (via Well Plated)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (11)

Pomegranate Jeweled White Cheddar, Toasted Almond, and Crispy Sage Cheeseball

While the term “cheeseball" might not sound particularly refined, this big bundle of flavor actually kinda is. It's coated in pomegranate seeds, for one thing, which makes it super festive and sweet. We recommend making this bad boy with mascarpone cheese for extra oomph. (via How Sweet It Is)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (12)

Tomato Jam and Cheddar Palmiers

TBH the thought of tomato jam is a little scary. But, once you try this recipe, you and your fam will be totally hooked. Add a little cheddar to make these extra flavorful. (via The Suburban Soapbox)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (13)

Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini

These tiny crostinis take the idea of bruschetta and turn it on its head. Instead of light, summery toppings, you'll be treated to festive cranberries, savory bacon, and gooey cheese. (via Recipe Rebel)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (15)

Pumpkin Bacon Dip

Nothing says Thanksgiving more than pumpkin-flavored everything, and that doesn't stop at chips and dip. Top this dip with bacon and green onions for extra flavor. (via Chew Out Loud)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (16)

5-Ingredient Caprese Phyllo Cups

Caprese is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes that you really can't go wrong with. Drizzle these with pesto or balsamic vinaigrette for extra flavor, but wait to do that part until you're ready to serve — otherwise they may get soggy. (via Gimme Some Oven)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (17)

Pumpkin Dip

When it comes to dips, what could be more Thanksgiving-y than a concoction made with pumpkin? Serve with crackers, apples, or lightly sweetened cookies to tide your guests over until the big meal. (via Deliciously Sprinkled)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (18)

Prosciutto-Fontina Pinwheels

Thinly sliced prosciutto, Fontina cheese, and puff pastry are just about all you need to make these pinwheels. The best part is that they totally make you into the best ever Turkey Day hostess. (via Food + Wine)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (19)

Sweet Potato Tartlets

Sweet potatoes are Thanksgiving's #1 fans. Add a candied pecan to the top of these tartlets to kick them up a notch. (via My Recipes)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (20)

Sweet and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

Go for a not-so-traditional Thanksgiving food and cook up a batch of stuffed mushrooms. The sweet and spicy flavors of this app will make it go fast. (via The Suburban Soapbox)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (21)

Antipasto Skewers

Assemble these skewers a day ahead of schedule. Put them on a tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate until ready to serve. (via Pip and Ebby)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (22)

Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp Dip

Dip toast points, pita chips, and breadsticks into this indulgent dip, which you can make a day before Thanksgiving and pop in the oven to warm up when you're ready to eat. We won't judge if you decide to toss the leftovers with some warm pasta and call it a meal. (via Amy in the Kitchen)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (23)

Quick Chicken Liver Pâté

Go old school this Thanksgiving, serving chicken liver pâté and toast points as an appetizer. The pâté will keep for a few days in the fridge; just let it sit for 20 minutes at room temperature before you dig in. (via My Gorgeous Recipes)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (24)

Bavarian Cheese and Beer Spread

A robust cheese spread, made with beer, is an appropriately hearty start to your Thanksgiving feast. (via Tara's Multicultural Table)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (25)

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

We all have that family member who claims they don't like Brussels sprouts. Change their mind with these bacon-wrapped versions, which you can make ahead and heat in the oven just before serving (though they're delish at room temperature too). (via Savory Tooth)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (26)

Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Earthy mushrooms and tangy goat cheese create a balanced bite with this bruschetta recipe. Make sure your bread is extra toasty, so you can prep it without worrying about it getting soggy. (via The Home Cook's Kitchen)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (27)

Roasted Sweet Potato Harissa Hummus

Ditch the candied sweet potatoes and serve up this creamy hummus instead. It'll keep for at least a couple of days in the fridge, freeing up time for you to work on the rest of your seasonal cooking. (via No Spoon Necessary)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (28)

Lasagna Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Make these stuffed mushrooms, freeze them, then pop into the oven on Thanksgiving. Just try to resist eating so many you lose your appetite before the big meal. (via Sweet Peas and Saffron)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (29)

Spicy Marinated Cheese

The cheese is marinated in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and spices, and gets better if you make it a day or two in advance. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (30)

Italian Sausage and Bean Bruschetta

Loaded with Italian sausage and white beans, this take on bruschetta is hearty enough for colder weather. Warm it up slightly before serving with toasted baguette slices. (via Lisa's Dinnertime Dish)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (31)

Sweet Potato Salad With Bacon

A little sweet, a little salty, this paleo salad is a satisfying but healthy starter. Top it with toasted pecans to add some crunch to each bite. (via From Our Hideaway)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (32)

Prosciutto and Date Palmiers

Flaky, cheesy, and sweet, palmiers will definitely stimulate your tastebuds. (via Garlic and Zest)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (33)

Caesar Twice Baked Potatoes

Mini potatoes, seasoned with Caesar dressing, are twice-baked in this recipe. You can assemble them ahead of time, then bake them for the second time right before they're served. (via Food Meanderings)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (34)

Baked French Onion Meatballs

Talk about NOM. Beef up your classic French onion soup recipe with a few meatballs to add a hearty touch, and top them off with a bit of gruyere. Trust us; your guests are going to thank you. (via Half Baked Harvest)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (35)

Goat Cheese Risotto With Cherry Tomato Confit

This easy-peasy recipe is actually pretty darn classy and showcases all the flavors of the spectrum. There's basil for herb lovers, plump cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor, and a mix-in of goat cheese for an elevated flavor. (via Barley and Sage)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (36)

CAPRESE BRUSCHETTA WITH BASIL PESTO

This recipe takes almost no time to make. Slice up some mozzarella slices, tomatoes, and drizzle some vinaigrette and pesto to your favorite baguette. (via Whole and Heavenly Kitchen)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (37)

Puff Pastry Nibbles

Add sliced tomatoes, pesto (store-bought or homemade), and sprinkle on hard cheese to puff pastry for a simple and delicious appetizer. And the best part is, you can make this up to 48 hours ahead of time, giving you plenty of wiggle room for your Turkey Day prep. (via Where is My Spoon)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (38)

Stuffed Mushrooms

We get it. Either you love mushrooms or you hate them with a passion, but this recipe is bound to convert. These mushrooms are jam-packed with parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs for a delectable finger food (via Peas & Their Pod)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (39)

2-Ingredient Italian Sausage Rolls

2-Ingredient Italian Sausage Rolls are sure to please kids and adults alike. Easily heat them back up once Thanksgiving rolls around. (via Culinary Hill)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (40)

Bacon Kalamata Cheese Puffs

For those who don't already know, kalamata is a type of olive… which makes these appetizers perfect for your vegetarian guests. Prepare these pockets a few days before Thanksgiving, stick them in the fridge, and bake on the day of. (via A Spicy Perspective)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (41)

Spicy Cajun Deviled Eggs

What *doesn't* sound good about these deviled eggs? Cajun seasoning and hot sauce give these otherwise totally traditional finger foods a savory, rich layer of flavor. (via The Fast Recipe)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (42)

Cheese Straws With Feta and Poppy Seeds

To make these straws, twist together feta and a homemade dough, then bake. Yes, we said * feta cheese.* These taste AMAZING all on their own, but you can get creative with the toppings if you're feeling frisky. (via The Bossy Kitchen)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (43)

KOREAN CREAM CHEESE GARLIC BREAD

Cheese bread is a classic appetizer. The cream cheese and honey butter takes this to the next-level. (via Takes Two Eggs

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (44)

Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie Bites

Brie can get super messy. Make bites instead and pop some cranberry in them to Thanksgiving-ify. Serve with fresh cranberries or — our personal favorite — sweet cranberry sauce. (via Half-baked Harvest)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (45)

Dill Pickle Cheese Ball

While the term “cheeseball" might not sound particularly refined, this big bundle of flavor actually kinda is. It's coated in cheddar cheese, for one thing, which makes it a crowd-pleaser. We recommend adding pickle slices to this bad boy for extra oomph. (via Averie Cooks)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (46)

Crispy Boursin Arancini

Crispy Boursin Arancinis the perfect prep-ahead dish that you can reheat in the oven. Once you try this recipe, you and your fam will be totally hooked. The Boursin center make these extra flavorful. (via The Endless Meal)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (47)

Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Pinwheels

The spinach and ricotta pinwheels take pre-dinner bread to another level. Enjoy a swirl of buttery puff pastry, salty parmesan, and gooey ricotta for the ultimate savory treat.(via Cozy Cravings)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (48)

Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

Nothing says Thanksgiving more than cranberry-infused everything, and that doesn't stop at chips and dip. Top this dip with slivered almonds and green onions for extra flavor. (via The Bossy Kitchen)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (49)

Baked Brie With Cranberries And Pecans

There's an unexpected sweetness to this baked brie, and it comes from the cranberries. Prep ahead then bake to experience the ooey gooey center. (via Hello Little Home)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (50)

Roasted Carrot & Harissa Chickpea Dip

When it comes to prepping ahead, Dips of any kind are a crowd-pleasing dish that you really can't go wrong with. Top this spread with pinenuts and pomegranate pearls for extra flavor, but wait to do that part until you're ready to serve — otherwise, it may all get mixed in. (via The First Mess)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (51)

Leek Quiche Recipe With Goat Cheese

One of the best things about quiche is that you can eat it at any time. Full of leeks and cheesy goodness, this quiche is a great way to sneak in some vegetables. (via Live Eat Learn)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (52)

Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

Indulge in the traditional decadence that is spinach and artichoke dip. The best part about a tried and true favorite is that they totally make you into the best-ever Turkey Day hostess. (via The Endless Meal)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (53)

Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups (gluten-free)

Speaking of spinach artichoke dip, opt for these cups to avoid the mess. You definitely won't have to worry about forgetting the chips. (via rachlmansfield)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (54)

Cherry Arugula Farro Salad

Go for a not-so-traditional Thanksgiving food and whip up a light yet filling salad. The sweet and crunchy texture of this app will make it go fast. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (55)

Easy Antipasto Skewers

Assemble these skewers a day ahead of schedule. Put them on a tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate until ready to serve. (via Salt & Lavendar)

Join our newsletter for more make ahead Thanksgiving appetizers and other ideas or explore our cooking and baking classes!

Header image via The First Mess

Additional reporting by Maggie McCracken and Justina Huddleston.

This article has been updated.

From Your Site Articles

  • 12 Scrumptious Appetizers to Kick Off Your Thanksgiving ... ›
  • 18 Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes Guests Will Want to Gobble Up ... ›
  • 15 Easy Last-Minute Fall Appetizer Recipes for Your Thanksgiving ... ›
  • 20 Easy Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes to Get the Party Started ... ›
  • 37 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes to Make Your ... ›
  • 21 One-Bite Appetizer Recipe Ideas for Your Big Game Party - Brit + Co ›
  • Thanksgiving Tablescape DIY — Brit + Co - Brit + Co ›
  • How To Make A Turkey — Brit + Co - Brit + Co ›
  • 20 Tasty Rolls for Your Thanksgiving Breadbasket - Brit + Co ›
  • Go-To Vegan Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes: The Butter Board - Brit + Co ›
  • 13 Thanksgiving Desserts You Won’t Believe Are Healthy - Brit + Co ›
  • Paleo Scone Recipe - Brit + Co ›
  • 20 Easy Appetizers For Your Next Get Together - Brit + Co ›
  • 21 Easy Thanksgiving Finger Foods For 2023 - Brit + Co ›
  • How To Cook A Turkey That Isn't Dry - Brit + Co ›
  • Our Top 19 Recipes for Appetizers Served on Sticks - Brit + Co ›
  • 22 Make-Ahead Appetizers To Make Hosting A Breeze - Brit + Co ›
  • Kraft Mac and Cheese Recipe Upgrades - Brit + Co ›
  • 20 Epic Cheese Ball Appetizer Recipes - Brit + Co ›
  • Your Make-Ahead Guide to Thanksgiving Dinner - Brit + Co ›
  • 54 Easy Holiday Dinner Party Recipes for the Lazy Chef - Brit + Co ›
  • The Top Thanksgiving Recipes from All 50 States - Brit + Co ›

Samantha Tagher

Sammy was born and raised in the great state of Kentucky and attends the University of Kentucky, where she studies Marketing and Merchandising, Apparel + Textiles. She loves a great DIY project, is a loyal Apple customer and has a *slight* obsession with nail polish, office supplies and, of course, her seven pound toy poodle, Buddy.

55 Easy Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizer Recipes (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Corie Satterfield

Last Updated:

Views: 5334

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (62 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Corie Satterfield

Birthday: 1992-08-19

Address: 850 Benjamin Bridge, Dickinsonchester, CO 68572-0542

Phone: +26813599986666

Job: Sales Manager

Hobby: Table tennis, Soapmaking, Flower arranging, amateur radio, Rock climbing, scrapbook, Horseback riding

Introduction: My name is Corie Satterfield, I am a fancy, perfect, spotless, quaint, fantastic, funny, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.