What are the best appetizers to serve at Thanksgiving?

The best appetizers are bite-sized, seasonal, and easy to prep ahead. Think baked brie, stuffed mushrooms, butternut hummus, or a beautiful cheese board.

What do people eat before Thanksgiving dinner?

Before the big feast, guests often enjoy light appetizers like dips, skewers, deviled eggs, or soups in small portions. It’s all about keeping hunger at bay — without spoiling the meal.

Can Thanksgiving appetizers be made ahead of time?

Yes! Many appetizers can be made 1–3 days in advance, including hummus, dips, meatballs, deviled eggs, and even some baked items like mini muffins.

What are some vegetarian Thanksgiving appetizer ideas?

Try beet hummus, sweet potato crostini, whipped ricotta with cranberry, or stuffed mushrooms. These are festive, flavorful, and 100% meat-free.

Should you serve appetizers before Thanksgiving dinner?

Absolutely! Appetizers give guests something to enjoy while you finish the meal. They help keep the energy up, especially if dinner runs a little late. 🍷

25 Irresistible Thanksgiving Appetizers to Wow Guests ✅

Name: Thanksgiving Appetizers
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese (chilled); 2 tablespoons honey; 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans; 1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish); Apple slices, grapes, crackers, or baguette (for serving)

Description

This baked brie is a festive, crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving appetizer. Warm, melty cheese topped with honey, pecans, and herbs—ready in 15 minutes and served with fruits and crackers.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (8 oz) wheel of brie cheese (chilled)
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Apple slices, grapes, crackers, or baguette (for serving)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking tray with parchment paper.
Place the cold brie wheel in the center and bake for 8–10 minutes until soft but not oozing.
Carefully transfer to a serving plate.
Drizzle with honey and sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
Garnish with rosemary or thyme.
Serve immediately with sliced apples, grapes, or crackers.

Notes

Brie should be cold from the fridge before baking to hold its shape.
You can substitute the honey with cranberry sauce for a tangier finish.
Optional: bake inside puff pastry for a more decadent version.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 190
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg