Hosting a party for a crowd? You’re probably thinking, “What delicious and easy-to-make foods can I serve to impress my guests?” Look no further! We’ve got you covered with our top 20 mouthwatering party food recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From savory snacks to sweet treats, we’ve gathered a collection of crowd-pleasing favorites that are perfect for any occasion.
From classic comfort foods like loaded nacho cheese bites and buffalo chicken sliders, to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki chicken skewers with pineapple and mini crab cake bites with remoulade, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make in large quantities, so you can focus on mingling with your guests instead of stuck in the kitchen.
Stay tuned for our top 20 party food recipes that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Mini Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized morsels of spicy delight, perfectly balanced between sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeños
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Stuff each jalapeño half with about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture.
5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
6. Place the mini poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your snacking game with this creamy, savory, and indulgent treat that combines the richness of spinach and artichoke dip with the earthy flavor of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the dip mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the mushrooms are tender.
6. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Nacho Cheese Bites
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these bite-sized cheesy treats! These loaded nacho cheese bites are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon of paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag of mini tortilla chips (about 30-40 chips)
– Optional: diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or crumbled cooked bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, half-and-half, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Arrange mini tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the cheese mixture onto each chip.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
These bite-sized Buffalo chicken sliders are perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy blue cheese crumbles, and spicy buffalo sauce will be a touchdown with your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot buffalo wing sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Add chicken breasts to the sauce mixture and coat evenly.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Assemble sliders by spreading blue cheese on bottom bun, topping with chicken, and finishing with top bun.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
These bite-sized Caprese skewers are a simple and elegant way to enjoy the flavors of Italy. Sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony, topped with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly caramelized.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Note: To make balsamic glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar on low heat for 30-40 minutes or until reduced and thickened.
Pulled Pork BBQ Meatballs
Pulled Pork BBQ Meatballs: A Twist on Classic Meatballs
Get ready to elevate your meatball game with these tender and juicy Pulled Pork BBQ Meatballs! Sweet and tangy, they’re perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Pulled Pork BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat Pulled Pork BBQ Sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and carefully place them into the BBQ sauce. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to coat evenly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Garlic Wings
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and savory wings! This simple recipe yields a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss wings with flour mixture until coated.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
5. Add olive oil to the bowl and stir until well combined.
6. Add floured wings to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
7. Line baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Arrange wings in a single layer.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pinwheels
A flavorful twist on traditional pinwheels, these Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pinwheels combine the savory goodness of bacon and ranch seasoning with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick snack or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of crescent roll dough (8-10 count)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon of softened butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the crescent roll dough on a floured surface.
3. Spread the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the top of the bacon and cheese mixture.
5. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling, then roll the pinwheel tightly.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Crab Cake Bites with Remoulade
These bite-sized crab cakes are packed with flavor and perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With a tangy remoulade dipping sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade dipping sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into small patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Place cooked crab cakes on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Remoulade Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve chilled.
Greek Yogurt Spinach Dip with Pita Chips
Discover the perfect blend of tangy and savory with this refreshing Greek yogurt spinach dip, served with crispy pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 bag pita chips
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, spinach, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve chilled with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time) + 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and spicy twist! These bite-sized treats combine the richness of beef with the bold flavors of sriracha and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, olive oil, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the sriracha sauce and honey over the meatballs, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Brie with Honey and Walnuts
This recipe combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the sweetness of honey and crunch of walnuts, perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 ounces)
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the honey over the brie, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the honey layer.
5. Dot the top of the brie with the softened butter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the walnuts are toasted.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Loaded Potato Skins with Cheddar and Chives
Elevate your snack game with these crispy potato skins loaded with cheddar cheese, chives, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let potatoes cool slightly, then slice in half lengthwise.
4. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. In a bowl, mix together cheese, chives, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each potato skin with the cheese mixture, dividing evenly among the four skins.
7. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Pineapple
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinners with these sweet and savory teriyaki chicken skewers, perfectly paired with juicy pineapple chunks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread chicken, pineapple chunks, and a few green onions (if using) onto skewers.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with additional teriyaki sauce on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Mini Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Mini Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: A Twist on a Classic!
These bite-sized egg rolls combine the flavors of a traditional Philly cheesesteak with the convenience of an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked steak (such as ribeye or top round)
– 1/4 cup sautéed onions and bell peppers
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the egg mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Add about 1/4 teaspoon of shredded cheese, 1/8 teaspoon of chopped steak, and 1/8 teaspoon of sautéed onions and bell peppers to the egg mixture.
5. Brush the edges of the wonton wrapper with a little water.
6. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the filling inside.
7. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
Cooking Time:
– Pan-fry the egg rolls in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
– Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Guacamole Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treasures that combine the richness of guacamole with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes and scoop out some of the insides to make room for the filling.
2. In a bowl, mix together the mashed avocado, chopped red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and salt.
3. Stuff each cherry tomato with about 1-2 teaspoons of the guacamole mixture.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Pesto Mozzarella Sticks
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy mozzarella sticks infused with the bright flavors of pesto. Perfect for parties or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch sticks
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the pesto sauce, coating evenly.
4. Roll the coated mozzarella stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with this sweet and savory combination of tender pulled pork, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing snack or main event.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb BBQ pulled pork
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spoon pulled pork over the chips, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pork.
5. Top with diced red onion and sliced jalapeño pepper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the nachos and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this indulgent yet effortless recipe that combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and crispy baguette slices.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. Brush baguette slices with remaining butter mixture. Top each slice with a shrimp, a sprinkle of parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Place crostini on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until bread is toasted and shrimp are heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake treats are the perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these mouthwatering morsels in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over baked crust. Top with sliced strawberries.
5. Dip tops of cooled cheesecakes in melted chocolate chips. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to impress your party guests with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes! From savory bites like Mini Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers and Spinach and Artichoke Dip Stuffed Mushrooms, to sweet treats like Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Bites, there’s something for everyone. These crowd-pleasing recipes are perfect for your next gathering or celebration. With flavors ranging from spicy buffalo chicken sliders to creamy pulled pork BBQ meatballs, you’ll have a party that will be remembered for years to come. So go ahead and get cooking!
