50 Best Finger Foods and Easy Appetizer Ideas

From chips and dip to breadsticks, pizza, and stuffed peppers, these finger food recipes offer a little bit of everything.

Technically, anything can be finger food if it’s small enough! It’s so nice to eat with your hands without having to worry about making a mess. 

I love to have lots of different kinds of delicious appetizers whenever I have people over.

With these simple finger foods, you won’t need to worry about people struggling with a knife and fork on their laps.

I guarantee you’ll find something that tickles your fancy on this list of 30 of the best finger food recipes.

1. Parmesan Bread Bites

Is there a person on the planet that doesn’t love warm, garlicky bread? I mean, it doesn’t get much better in my eyes. 

I love that this recipe uses pizza dough to bake these bread bites. That way, you can make extra and have a complete pizza feast at your next party.

2. Italian Sausage Dip Recipe

I long for the days when we could meet up and share a big bowl of chips and dip a few drinks and some laughs. (Soon, I hope!)

But just because we can’t gather (yet!) doesn’t mean we can’t indulge. This easy sausage dip is perfect for your next movie night in.

3. Buttery Garlic Breadsticks

Whatever you do, don’t leave me alone with the bread basket! You’ve been warned!

The best thing about this recipe is that you won’t need to mold the dough. Just roll it out and cut it into strips.

The twist gives the breadsticks a bit of character, and they’re best served with some warm marinara.

4. Herb Cream Cheese Dip

Dips can be sweet, savory, creamy, spicy, thick, thin, hot, or cold. And of course, you can get some that are a combination of those. 

I like to opt for this thick, creamy, savory, cheesy dip when serving crackers. The texture is so much more satisfying.

Add cheese slices and deli meats on the plate for more delicious party food!

5. Homemade Potato Chips

If you haven’t made crispy potato chips at home, I’m sure it’s because you don’t have a deep fryer.

But did you know you can make these finger foods right in the microwave? I know, crazy!

To get your slices uniform, use a mandolin to cut the potatoes, and be sure to dry them thoroughly on paper towels. 

6. Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Sriracha Dipping Sauce

Fries are the best finger foods, right? Each bite is salty, crispy, and perfect with everything from ketchup to curry sauce.

These golden brown sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative, with just as much flavor and crispy goodness. 

To be sure they’re crispy, try tossing them in cornstarch before the oil mixture. 

7. Rosemary Garlic Crackers

Making your own crackers is a fantastic way to add some excitement to your Super Bowl party spread while avoiding any unhealthy preservatives.

These rosemary and garlic crackers are a perfect addition to your snack table, with their satisfying taste and crunch.

You can whip them up in just 20 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy game day!

8. Bacon Cranberry Brie Bites

Serve a tray of these gorgeous brie bites, and they won’t last five minutes.

Between the golden pastry, salty bacon, and sweet-tart cranberry, they’re impossible to resist.

Better yet, you can easily modify this recipe with different fillings. That way, you can have a few different options.

9. Detroit-Style Pizza Recipe

Detroit-style pizza is rectangular, crispy, and is made with the sauce layered on top of the melty cheese. 

Another unique thing about this pizza is that it calls for cubes of cheese rather than shredded.

I love this version because each bite has big pockets of gooey cheese and a lovely tender crust.

10. Gougères (French Cheese Balls or Puffs)

Have you ever tried savory choux pastry? You’re about to!

These cheese balls incorporate the delicious taste and texture of the choux with the salty goodness of cheese.

Feel free to throw in some bacon bits or chopped jalapeños, and serve with whipped garlic veggie cream cheese.

11. Grilled Apple, Cream Cheese, and Bacon Sandwiches

This is not your average grilled cheese sandwich. First of all, it’s full of cream melty cheese and mayo, making it a creamy and decadent snack. Then there’s the bacon and apple. 

If you’ve never tried apple in a savory sandwich before, I can’t recommend it enough.

The sweet and crispy fruit pairs so well with the creamy, salty filling, creating the perfect bite.

12. Blooming Onion Bites with Dipping Sauce

I know the steaks are good, and the drinks are great, but I go to Outback for the crispy bloomin’ onion. Tell me I’m not alone?

This recipe is so simple; I can’t believe I didn’t think of it before. A bloomin’ onion is, after all, one giant onion ring, right?

13. Warm Oven Brie With Pesto

Brie has such a unique flavor.

It’s creamy and bold enough to stand alone in a dish. But then, it’s also mild enough to pair with everything from pesto to caramelized onions. 

Since I would put pesto on pretty much anything, this is a no-brainer.

The color is fantastic, and the nutty, garlicky sauce makes this warm bowl of cheese a dream.

14. Homemade Everything Bagels

I have a confession: I have a pretty severe addiction to everything bagels. As in, I’ll eat one for breakfast, one for lunch, and then maybe half as a pre-dinner snack.

If they’re in my house, they won’t last long.

Though I may not have the willpower to make a batch of these, I seriously recommend that you try it.

15. Tomato + Butter Bean Dip

Calling this a dip seems odd considering the texture. I mean, it’s a delicious bowl of beans, but is it a dip? I’ll let you decide!

I guess it gets the name because it’s typically served with crackers or bread.

No matter what you call it, it beats that old jar of onion dip you stashed away in the pantry.

16. Party Pinwheels

When I’m planning a dinner party or BBQ, I like to offer a variety of party foods to my guests, and finger food just makes it so much easier to mingle!

These pinwheels are an easy appetizer that you can serve up on a platter, letting people pick and choose as they go. 

They might be simple, but they’ll definitely be a hit at your next party.

17. Pan con Tomate (Spanish Tomato Toast)

I’m pretty sure I lived off pan con tomate and sangria on my last trip to Spain. It’s quick, warm, and delicious.

In general, this dish is made up of toasted bread that gets rubbed with garlic before adding a layer of grated tomato on top. 

Most places will add a drizzle of olive oil and sea salt to boot.

18. Easy Goat Cheese Appetizer

The best finger foods are also the easiest to make. This easy appetizer will look like it took hours to create when really, it’s super simple.

You’ll only need six ingredients! Once you have the lightning-fast dressing chopped and mixed, just pour it right over the cheese and serve.

See, I told you it was easy.

19. Veggie Pizza

Clever and colorful, this veggie pizza is a great way to introduce vegetables to your kids.

It starts with a crescent roll base, which is fluffy and as easy as opening a can.

Rather than a tomato sauce, this has a creamy ranch mix and cream cheese spread to hold all the veggies down.

20. The Best Homemade Fresh Tomato Salsa

This recipe has everything you’d expect in salsa, such as tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro (leave it out if you hate it), and then some crunchy extras, like cucumber and peppers.

This is actually more of a pico de gallo since you’re using raw ingredients, and it’s chunky. It’s perfect for your next Taco Tuesday!

21. Easy Ranch Party Crackers

Why pay for a box of seasoned crackers when you can just make these golden brown munchies at home? I’m betting you already have the ingredients needed.

22. 3-Ingredient Mini-Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Stuffed peppers are normally more of a dinner dish than party food, but these bites are a little different.

I love peppers, and these minis are just the thing to serve on a plate as a perfect appetizer that’s crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Not only are they super colorful, but all you’ll need are peppers, cheese, and some honey. 

23. Caramel Apple Dip

Be very careful with this recipe: make it once, and there goes your diet!

This luscious, golden brown dip has a faux-cheesecake layer, topped with sultry caramel and toffee bits for crunch. Really? How can anyone say no to that??

Serve it with apple slices so you can pretend to be healthy, or just go all-out and serve it with graham crackers and cookies.

24. Tomato Basil Bruschetta with Balsamic Drizzle

Bruschetta is almost like the Italian version of pan con tomate – crispy toasted bread slices rubbed with garlic and topped with a tomato mix.

This differs in that the tomatoes are diced and typically mixed with basil and onions. When it comes to the balsamic, remember that a little goes a long way.

25. Easy Garlic and Herb Veggie Dip

Is it still baseball season? Super Bowl? Beats me! I just bring the best finger foods when I’m invited to “watch” a game.

It’s easy to open a jar of Ranch dip, but why not try making your own?

This dip has many of the same ingredients, and you can better control the level of garlic – apparently, not everyone’s a fan (weird, right?).

26. Greek Veggie Tartlets

Phyllo pastry gets a bad rap for how much attention it needs while baking. It dries out pretty quick if you don’t keep it covered with a damp cloth.

But every bite is so crisp and flaky, so it’s worth every extra step it takes!

And for this recipe, you can even opt for store-bought phyllo cups, taking away any stress.

27. The Ultimate Mediterranean Appetizer Platter

Charcuterie boards have recently taken over social media, and I’ve seen so many variations all over my feeds.

This delicious appetizer platter is full of veggies, dips, fruits, and cheese and can be served up to meat-eaters and vegan at the same time.

Just keep the bacon off the broccoli, please! 

28. Jalapeño Popper Party Dip

The beauty of the jalapeño popper is that it gives you just the right amount of heat and a nice creamy inside to mellow it out. 

This dip gives you all that, along with a crunchy top made out of breadcrumbs.

I think it’s great with just the jalapeños, but adding in some chopped tomatoes would make it really pop.

29. Smoked Salmon Appetizer Bites

These might look dainty and fiddly to make, but I have a trick up my sleeve: using tortillas to make this en masse, and once it’s chilled, slice it into perfect little cubes. 

I’ve tried this delicious appetizer with white bread, but you can’t get the same neatness when cutting it. You can also use flavored tortillas for a bit of color.

30. Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe

Is there anything better than a big bite of this bubbling spin’ dip? I think not!

For this recipe, you’ll need six ingredients and about twenty minutes. Yes, really! By using garlic and herb cheese, you’ll skip a couple of steps from the get-go.

The key is to use canned artichokes and frozen spinach.

31. Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

Give these air fryer stuffer mushrooms a try for a delicious appetizer that’s ready in minutes.

Each shroom is stuffed with sausage, cream cheese, and parmesan for a rich and savory bite. 

The air fryer cooks these little bites to perfection in no time, making the mushrooms nice and tender on the outside, and ridiculously creamy on the inside.

32. Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

If you’re a fan of shrimp cocktail, then you definitely need to try this easy appetizer. 

Bursting with shrimp flavor, these golden brown fritters are the ultimate seafood comfort food!

They’re loaded with shrimp, mozzarella, and mayo, creating an explosion of flavor and texture with every bite. 

33. Jalapeño Poppers

Time to kick up your next party with the easy appetizer: jalapeño poppers! 

Stuffed with a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and chives, then topped with a crispy breadcrumb and butter topping, jalapeño poppers are the perfect combination of crunchy and melty-gooey goodness. 

With just the right amount of kick from the jalapeños, these poppers are a certified crowd pleaser your guests will love.

34. Easy Coconut Shrimp

If you’re on the hunt for more seafood finger food ideas, look no further than coconut shrimp. These crispy bites are the perfect addition to any party platter or game day spread. 

Thinks of it as an elevated version of the shrimp cocktail, with a crunchy coconut coating and sweet-spicy dipping sauce. 

Prepare to be amazed!

35. Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Looking for healthy finger food ideas? Air fryer popcorn chicken is a great way to enjoy classic chicken nuggets without the guilt.

These morsels are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. 

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, air fryer popcorn chicken will surely impress. 

36. Antipasto Skewers

You can’t go wrong with antipasto skewers. 

These colorful sticks are loaded with a variety of tasty treats, from olives and tomatoes to salami and mozzarella. 

And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance – delicious cheese tortellini.

Grab a skewer and take a bite.

37. Grilled Shrimp Skewers

These grilled shrimp skewers are a smokey twist on the classic shrimp cocktail. 

Here, the shrimp is marinated in a zesty lemon and herb dressing, giving them a bright flavor that’s perfect for summer barbecues. 

Simply skewer them up and toss them on the grill for a few minutes – the result is sweet, juicy shrimp with a nice charred flavor. 

38. Sausage and Pepper Skewers

These skewers are loaded with juicy Italian sausage, sweet red onions, and colorful tri-color bell peppers, making them a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. 

While it looks intricate, this appetizer is surprisingly a cinch to make.

Simply grill them up until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and charred to perfection. 

39. Fruit Kabobs 

Fruit kabobs are a fun and colorful way to enjoy fruits. 

With strawberries, cantaloupe, pineapple, kiwi, grapes, blackberries, and/or whatever fruit you have on hand, you can create a beautiful display sure to wow your guests. 

40. Individual 7 Layer Dip Cups 

Time to fiesta with these delicious and easy-to-make 7-layer dip cups! 

With layers of taco beans & cream cheese mixture, guacamole, cheese, and tomatoes, these cups are the perfect party appetizer or snack. 

Whether you’re hosting a game day or a potluck, this appetizer is sure to be a hit with everyone. 

Grab some tortilla chips and dip in.

41. Easy Meatball Bites

Crispy puff pastry cups filled with marinara sauce, meatballs, and parmesan cheese, these bites are simply to die for. 

Bite-sized and bursting with flavor, these savory treats are the perfect way to enjoy your favorite meatballs in a fun new way. 

42. Deviled Eggs

Get ready for a blast from the past with classic deviled eggs! 

These creamy, tangy bites are the perfect throwback appetizer for any occasion. 

With a little bit of mayo, mustard, and a sprinkle of paprika, deviled eggs are a delectable and savory snack. 

Indulge in these nostalgic little bites and let the good times roll.

43. Fried Mac and Cheese Balls

Just when you think this classic comfort food couldn’t get any better, this recipe takes it up a notch.

These fried mac & cheese balls are crisp on the outside, creamy on the inside, and simply irresistible.

Each bite takes you on a nostalgic journey to your childhood days, but with an added twist. 

Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one. 

44. Fried Pickles

I was a bit skeptical to try fried pickles at first, but just one bite, and I was hooked. 

There’s just something about its crispy exterior and tangy pickle inside that hits the spot. 

Plus, you can dip them in just about anything – ranch, barbecue sauce, honey mustard – you name it. If you haven’t tried fried pickles yet, what are you waiting for?

45. Bacon Wrapped Brown Sugar Smokies

Meat lovers, say hello to these mouth-watering bacon-wrapped brown sugar smokies. 

These sausage rolls are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with juicy little smokies hugged by crispy bacon and topped off with a sprinkle of brown sugar. 

But be warned, these little guys are highly addictive and may disappear faster than you can imagine.

46. Pigs in a Blanket

Delight your guests with a delicious crowd pleaser that is pigs in a blanket!

These little bites of heaven are made with sausage wrapped in flaky puff pastry, all rolled up and baked to golden perfection. 

These sausage rolls are so irresistible, you’ll want to make them again and again.

47. Franks Redhot Buffalo Wings

Spice up your snack game with Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Wings! 

These crispy and juicy chicken wings are coated in a fiery sauce that packs a serious kick.

Once you start, you won’t be able to stop. So why settle for boring chicken when you can have Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Wings? 

48. Air Fryer Dumplings

Air fryer dumplings to the rescue! These delicious bites are a lifesaver when it comes to last-minute party preparations. 

Delicious and ready in no time, they’re sure to save the day and impress your guests. 

Forget the stress of party planning and let these air fryer dumplings be your hero.

49. Sausage Rolls

Sausage rolls are a classic snack that never disappoints. 

The flaky, golden puff pastry on the outside perfectly complements the savory pork mince and crispy bacon on the inside. 

They’re tasty, filling, and easy to make in large batches, making them a crowd-pleasing addition to any party. 

50. Fryer Mozzarella Sticks 

I might’ve saved the best for last. There’s no denying that fryer mozzarella sticks are the ultimate comfort food, so it’s no surprise they made it onto this list.

Crispy on the outside and rich & gooey on the inside, these golden sticks of goodness are delightfully decadent.