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On holidays like Thanksgiving, oven space is precious and time is tight. That’s why we’re all about simple starters that deliver big flavor without adding stress to your holiday prep. These 20 easy appetizers require just three ingredients each, making them perfect for grazing guests, hungry helpers, or last-minute additions to your menu.
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Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Grocery Addict
“Sometime I use blue cheese and sometimes use goat cheese. Both are delicious. The goat cheese gives a milder flavor that more people seem to enjoy.” —LoriJ
Easy 3-Ingredient Cheese Pinwheels
“This is my go-to finger food for any party — it’s super quick and easy to make and all you need is puff pastry, cheese, and herbed cream cheese.” —superchef
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms II
“Such a tasty recipe! And so simple! Everyone loved these. I made no changes to the original recipe. Thanks for sharing!” —Rayshelle
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS
“I make this exact recipe with the addition of 2tsp. cayenne pepper.Always a big hit and I have never heard anyone say it was too spicy. It gives just a hint of heat that complements the sweet and savory flavors. I also use parchment paper.” —Donald
Olive Puffs
“Made these as the recipe describes. SO GOOD, SO EASY! Will do these again and again, maybe with the addition of some grated cheese. So easy that I simply cut the strips, drained the olives, and then I had hubby roll and bake them. Keeps kids and spouses busy while they hover around me in the kitchen :)” —LAW
Tostones (Fried Plantains)
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
These fried plantains are a Latin American specialty that make a great light appetizer or side. For the crispiest exterior, make sure your plantains are completely dry before frying them the second time.
Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
AllRecipes / Julia Hartbeck
“I used up my leftover bacon for these and they were great… I did the wax paper and mixed the cheese and meat together, add the spices you like ❤️” —Hollmart
Light and Baked Mozzarella Sticks
To prevent the cheese from oozing out of the shell in the oven, freeze the sticks after breading for a couple of hours. Serve with marinara sauce and ranch for dipping!
Ham Rolls
“Has been our family go-to for years, along with knorr’s spinach dip and warm crusty bread.” —OregonDawn
Rolo-Ritz Sandwiches
Allrecipes/Julia Hartbeck
“They’re a two-ingredient sensation from the 1970s—and they’re ready in minutes.” —Robin Shreeves
Magic Pickle Dip
Sara Haas
Softened cream cheese, diced dill pickles, and thinly sliced dried beef come together to produce a zesty and savory dip for crackers and bagel chips.
Easy Appetizer Meatballs
Brown spicy pork meatballs and throw them in a slow cooker with frozen orange juice concentrate, which will simmer into a sweet-tangy glaze.
Salami, Cream Cheese, and Pepperoncini Roll-Ups
“These were super easy and fun to make with my daughter. They’re made with very accessible ingredients, we almost always have them all on hand. Perfect for a last minute appetizer or a get togetherwith family and friends. They are a great combination of salty and creamy with a spicy kick. We’ll be making these often.” —MaryLou
Ranch Mix Saltine Crackers
“I’ve made this a number of times and it’s also good if you add in pretzels and cheez-it crackers!” —Kay
3-Ingredient Parmesan Cookies
“These are phenomenal! So easy to make and they taste like something you’d pay a fortune for in a specialty shop. Perfect with wine for the adults, but my kids love them too! —Diana Moutsopoulos
Sugar Spanish Peanuts
Getty Images
These sugar-coated Spanish peanuts are pleasing addition to any appetizer spread. Add a little cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
The Best Dry-Roasted Chickpea Recipe
“Made these today for a snack. I doubled the recipe and followed directions to a “T” with one exception: I added 1/4 tsp garlic powder with the salt and pepper. I think I will add a 1/2 tsp garlic powder next time. Still, absolutely delish!” —Nana Polly
Bacon-Wrapped Peanut Butter Jalapeños
Allrecipes Member
“Very good. My company loved it. Next time I will precook bacon a little.” —Karen
3-Ingredient Swedish Meatballs
Frozen meatballs swim in a sauce made from condensed beef and mushroom soup and sour cream for a flavorful starter. Feel free to use regular cream of mushroom soup if you prefer.
2-Ingredient Rotel Bean Dip
Allrecipes / Qi Ai
This game-day favorite is also perfect for any holiday gathering. Pair it with a big platter of fresh veggie spears and tortilla chips.
