Full-Fat Dairy Is Healthier for You Than You Think

Contrary to what you might think, fat is not to be feared. In fact, it can even be your friend, as evidenced by the current obsession with avocados and the rise in popularity of the keto diet. And this holds true when it comes to dairy too. A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that full-fat dairy, long believed to contribute to heart issues due to its higher saturated-fat content, can help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly stroke.

Still need a little convincing that full-fat dairy is actually healthy? Melissa Majumdar, MS, RD, senior bariatric dietician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, advises women to “not be afraid of full-fat dairy.” And she breaks down the differences between all the various options so you’ll be able to make an informed decision the next time you’re in the dairy aisle at the grocery store.

For an eight-ounce serving, she tells us that whole milk, low-fat milk (one and two percent), and fat-free (skim) milk have the same amount of protein (eight grams) and natural sugars (12 grams), but different amounts of calories and fat. The calories range from about 80 in an eight-ounce glass of skim milk to 150 for whole milk. “Whole milk contains 3.5 to four percent fat, and has around eight grams of fat. Low-fat milk is usually one to two percent fat, and contains around two grams of fat. And fat-free milk has zero percent fat,” Majumdar explains.

And full-fat dairy has lots of added benefits compared to low- and non-fat options. Obviously, with added fat comes added calories… but it’s actually sugar that you need to be wary of.

“A lot of times when including dairy in our diets, it’s hard to avoid added sugars. Sugar and fat both improve the flavor of foods, and oftentimes when one is removed, as is the case with fat-free yogurt, salad dressing, or even peanut butter, more sugar is added in,” Majumdar says. “I am a proponent for a little bit of fat to help with mouthfeel, and [getting] sweetness from a natural source, like fresh fruit. I personally choose two percent yogurt or one percent cottage cheese. If a little more dairy-based fat helps reduce added sugars, it can be a good choice.”

Since you need fat in your diet anyway, you might as well get it from a comparatively healthy source like full-fat dairy, versus reaching for that cheeseburger piled high with every greasy topping imaginable. “The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend keeping calories from saturated fat under 10 percent of total calories. We can choose those calories to be from full-fat dairy and reap a lot of benefits,” says Majumdar. “Dairy, in general, is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients don’t change with skim versus full-fat dairy, and compared to other foods that are high in saturated fats like snack foods or marbled meats, we gain a lot of nutritional benefits.”

Another benefit of choosing full-fat dairy is that can help your body absorb more nutrients. “Having fat alongside fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K helps us absorb them. In other words, dairy is nutrient-dense and a great way to spend our saturated-fat calories, and having a little fat with the dairy helps us reap more of the benefits,” she says.

It also has more flavor than low- or non-fat alternatives, which can help stave off cravings and help prevent over-consuming to make up for lack of taste. “Full-fat dairy may be more satisfying and help curb extra calories from larger portions or added sugars,” Majumdar points out. “If full-fat dairy helps people eat more dairy and less added sugar, and can be chosen within overall calorie and saturated fat guidelines, then full-fat is a good choice.”

What’s your favorite dairy option? Let us know @BritandCo!

(Photo via Getty)

Admit it: when the weather turns cooler, your diet basically becomes that of Buddy the Elf. That means candy, candy corns, candy canes, and syrup will be your main food groups. Instead of pouring maple syrup all over your spaghetti like he does, try mixing it into your favorite cocktails! Whether they’re bourbon-based or laced with rum, the sticky sweetener, maple syrup, is perfect for fall and winter libations. If you still need convincing, check out the maple cocktails below that are like having a maple tree tapped in your backyard all year long.

A Beautiful Mess

Maple Pumpkin Martini

This cocktail combines two of the most iconic fall flavors for a whole new taste that we love. Not only is it delicious, but it's also non-dairy, which makes for a great option if you or your guests need to opt for coconut or oat milk anyway. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Clean Cuisine

Brandy Lemon Drops

Citrusy and sweet, these brandy-filled maple cocktails are sure to get any holiday party going. (via Clean Cuisine)

Half Baked Harvest

Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz

The bourbon, citrus flavors, and homemade (!) maple syrup in this sip are out-of-this-world delicious, but topping the drink off with champagne really takes it to the next level. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Cookie + Kate

Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

Give your typical whiskey sour a sweet and spicy twist with cinnamon and a splash of maple syrup. Truth be told, you may not be able to go back to regular simple syrup again. (via Cookie + Kate)

Lemon Blossoms

Cranberry Maple Bourbon Cocktail

This holly-jolly cranberry maple cocktail is perfect for all of your holiday get-togethers. Garnish this drink with sugared cranberries and an orange wedge to make it extra festive. (via Lemon Blossoms)

Crumb

Spiced Maple Manhattan

The maple syrup echoes the sweetness of the rye in this cocktail, and the slight warming spices are truly like autumn in a glass. (via Crumb)

How Sweet Eats

Maple Honeycrisp Margaritas

You shouldn’t have to give up your margarita nights when the seasons change. The next time you go apple picking, whip up these margs afterward to enjoy the fruits of your labor. (via How Sweet Eats)

Earthly Provisions

Blanton's Old Fashioned

With just 4 ingredients and 5 minutes, you can have this strong (and a bit sweet) maple cocktail ready to sip. Cozy weeknights just got a whole lot better! (via Earthly Provisions)

Cookie + Kate

Maple New York Sour

If you’ve never had a New York sour, now is the time. You don’t have to choose between a whiskey sour or a glass of wine, because this drink combines the two for a sweet and tangy nightcap. (via Cookie + Kate)

Cheese and Chocolate

Figgy Maple Bourbon Fizz

This maple cocktail gets its fizz from ginger beer, sweetness from syrup, and a nice kick from the bourbon. (via Cheese and Chocolate)

Gastronom

Cold Brew Bourbon Cocktail

There are times when you need a pick-me-up, but you also want a second to chill. Those moments call for a stout cold brew cocktail that’s spiked with bourbon and sweetened with a hint of maple syrup. (via Gastronom)

Food Fanatic

Maple 43 Cocktail

When a cocktail is garnished with a maple-soaked mini waffle, you happily accept and don’t ask questions. (via Food Fanatic)

Just a Little Bit of Bacon

Pear Bourbon Smash

Winter fruits like pears and apples are perfect to pair with maple syrup and bourbon. This bourbon smash has half of a pear in each glass and is full of whole fruit flavor. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)

Feasting At Home

A Long Winter’s Nap

You’ll feel like a snooze is on the horizon with this aromatic drink. Flavor it with everything from whole allspice pods to pine needles. (via Feasting At Home)

Mixop

Gingerbread Latte

This creamy and frothy latte can be made with alcohol for a yummy caffeinated treat. (via Mixop)

Follow us on Pinterest for more cocktail ideas and fall recipes!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

As much as we love talking about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce...Jason Kelce and his wife Kylie Kelce deserve their time in the spotlight too! They have a loving and hilarious dynamic that's somehow made room for not one, but three kids. And guess what? They recently announced that baby number 4 is coming soon! From their very funny announcement to everything they've said since, there's a lot of fun to unpack here.

Here's everything to know about Jason Kelce & Kylie Kelce's exciting pregnancy!

When did Jason and Kylie announce she's pregnant?

Amazon Prime

Kylie Kelce shared the huge news on Instagram November 22nd! Of course grandma Donna Kelce was the first to leave a comment. She wrote, "🔥🔥🔥🔥😍😍😍 Love it!!!" Brittany Mahomes also commented by writing, "Ahhhhhh Congrats you guys!!!🥹🤍."

How did Jason and Kylie's other daughters react?

Amazon Prime

In Kylie's same Instagram post, her and Jason's daughters can be seen expressing a range of emotions. There's an 'Eek' expression from their oldest daughter Wyatt, a happy look from their middle daughter Elliott, and pure tears from baby girl Bennett. Kylie wrote, "I feel like we captured a very accurate representation of how each of the girls feel about getting another sister. At least Ellie, mom and dad are on the same page! 🤷♀️"

When is Jason and Kylie's fourth baby due?

Amazon Prime

That's TBD! Since the couple just announced their fourth pregnancy, only time will tell when baby girl will arrive. Knowing Jason and Kylie's willingness to be open about their lives, we wouldn't be surprised if they decide to share a due date.

How are Jason and Kylie preparing to be a family of six?

Amazon Prime

Jason Kelce is taking the news of being an official girl dad like a champ. He told E! Newshe's "got it pretty easy" because "the clothes are all going to be hand-me-downs or already bought." Not only that, but they've already secured a baby crib! However, Jason was quick to add Kylie's also getting ready for their daughter's arrival. "Kylie's definitely preparing more than I am, because she's actually growing the human being."

“I love my kids so much, and especially my daughters,” he added. "I was telling somebody out there because they're expecting their first — and they look at you. They smile at you. There's just a way that kids have to warm your soul in a way that nothing else can.”

He's also excited to watch his daughters grow up with a new sibling. "And hopefully we'll welcome a fourth into this world, and we'll be able to watch them fight and tear each other apart and all the good stuff."

He even appeared on The Rich Eisen Show where he joked, "I'm screwed [in] like in 10 years. The moment they’re all in middle school, I feel like it’s just gonna be chaos." He also hopes Wyatt "can start helping out a little bit more." But, he's still looking forward to it! "I obviously have not had a son, but there is something about a daughter in the way I think as a dad, you feel an extra amount probably of protection and love toward that child," he shared.

Follow us on Facebook for more updated about this cute family!

This post has been updated.

Sometimes you just want your cocktail to bite back – and with more than just vodka. When herbal drinks and floral concoctions just don’t do it for you, think about adding a little bit of chili to your libations! You’ve experienced savoriness in your Bloody Mary (and even your margarita from time to time), but how about a gin and tonic or a Moscow mule? It’s time to step out of your comfort zone and try some spicy cocktails with your next brunch feast or happy hour get-together. Scroll down for 14 spicy cocktails that’ll definitely get you sweatin'.

Cozy Cravings

Spicy Watermelon Margaritas

Watermelon is just the refreshing flavor note you need to balance out the jalapeño in these spicy cocktails. (via Cozy Cravings)

Tito's Vodka

Pickle & Jalapeño TitoRita

Pickles and jalapeños go surprisingly well together in this delightfully briny concoction. (via Tito's Vodka)

A Spicy Perspective

Spicy Micheladas

You haven't lived until you've tried a michelada. This iteration works in some extra spice to get the party goin'! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Gastroplant

Jade Mezcal Margarita

These spicy cocktails are like a hybrid between your favorite green juice and a classic marg. Packed with kale, ginger, and orange juice, they're an equally healthy and boozy sip! (via Gastroplant)

Mixop

Mango Habanero Margaritas

Mango and habanero will always be a match made in heaven. You'll get a swig of spicy, fruity, sweet, and sour with these gorgeous spicy cocktails! (via Mixop)

Heather Christo

Spicy BLT Green Bloody Marys

There’s a good chance you’ll never buy store-bought Bloody Mary mix ever again after having these spicy sips. Plus, bacon as a garnish? Yes, please! (via Heather Christo)

Jonathan Melendez

Spicy Tomato Gin + Tonics

Put that cocktail muddler to work with this serrano and tomato-infused gin and tonic. Serve 'em ice-cold with cucumber and a salt, pepper, and cayenne-dipped rim. (via Jonathan Melendez)

Nerds With Knives

Hibiscus Cocktail with Mint & Jalapeño

You may not be surprised to see hibiscus in a cocktail, but you might be shocked to drink it with jalapeño. Don’t knock it ’til you try it, because the flavor is *fire.* (via Nerds With Knives)

Inspired by Charm

Sweet Heat

If you’re intimidated by adding peppers to your spicy cocktails, try adding a small amount to a sweet drink to balance it out. This one has jalapeño suspended in a mixture of vodka, pineapple juice, and simple syrup. (via Inspired by Charm)

Cooking For Keeps

Mango & Serrano Chili Daiquiris

Take your stay-cation seriously by lounging outside with a pitcher of these spicy mango daiquiris. You might want to have a glass of water nearby, because these puppies pack a punch. (via Cooking For Keeps)

Cookie + Kate

Pineapple Cilantro Serrano Cocktails

Make these spicy cocktails at home to serve a whole crowd of happy tequila drinkers. (via Cookie + Kate)

Best Friends for Frosting

Pineapple Jalapeño Sangria

Your sangria isn’t immune to the power of peppers. Go for a ripe Chardonnay with tropical flavors to best match up with the pineapple juice and jalapeño! (via Best Friends for Frosting)

Cake ‘n Knife

Spicy Jalapeño Gimlet

You don’t need a ton of frills to enjoy a zesty, spicy cocktail. This gimlet requires only good quality vodka, lime juice, and jalapeño simple syrup to create a strong sip. (via Cake ‘n Knife)

Foolproof Living

Cilantro-Infused Spicy Jalapeño Margaritas

This little number is not for the faint of heart. Thankfully, the sweet and sour flavor of the margarita mix and the cooling effect of cilantro diffuse the spiciness, so it doesn’t totally overwhelm the palate. (via Foolproof Living)

Hello Little Home

Spicy Grapefruit Paloma

If you’re over the classic margarita, a paloma is a great tequila cocktail to take its place! (via Hello Little Home)

Vintage Kitty

Spicy Thai Basil Cucumber Cocktail

Use cucumber and basil to create a cooling base to saturate this bev with spicy flavor. (via Vintage Kitty)

Check out our complete list of hot cocktails for more drink inspiration!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Whipping up Christmas dinner for your squad this year? If it's your first time hostessing, there's no need to panic. You can scour the internet for holiday kitchen tips and embark on a house-cleaning frenzy — or you can take comfort in the simple fact that good food creates full bellies and happy people, and that's the only goal you need to meet.

Kick back with a plate of Christmas cookies and a mug ofhot chocolate – here are 37 comforting Christmas dinner ideas and recipes, from appetizers to desserts, that will take the headache out of building your dream holiday dinner menu.

Scroll on for delicious Christmas dinner ideas!

Christmas Appetizer Ideas

Brit + Co

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese

While cradling a cocktail in one hand, an easy-to-grab appetizer is essential. These flaky, cheesy bacon twists are both easy and delicious to dunk in a three-cheese beer dip. (via Brit + Co)

Well Plated by Erin

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Bites

A red and green holiday treat without sugary sprinkles? Count us in. These phyllo shells are filled with whipped pesto cream cheese and topped with basil and sun-dried tomatoes for some yummy Christmas food. (via Well Plated by Erin)

Chef Genevieve

Cranberry Goat Cheese Balls

These cranberry goat cheese balls are the perfect balance of salty and sweet — a definite crowd-pleaser for any Christmas dinner! (via Chef Genevieve)

The Baking Fairy

Holiday Crostini Trio

Spread avocado, mascarpone, and provolone onto toasted baguette slices for a tasty appetizer, and top away for three versatile holiday food ideas that will please any palate at your holiday party. (via The Baking Fairy)

The Seasoned Mom

Honey Almond Baked Brie

Add this this gooey, sweet, and salty baked brie to your Christmas dinner menu and guests will gather around it like it's a fireplace on a cold day. (via The Seasoned Mom)

Christmas Food Ideas For Side Dishes

Brit + Co

Sesame Shrimp Pastry Puffs

The seafood lover in your home will be elated to munch on these sweet and umami-rich (thanks to the oyster sauce) sesame shrimps blanketed in buttery puff pastry. You'll definitely want to add this dish to your best Christmas recipes list! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cheesy Sweet Potato Gratin

This savory combination of sage, gruyère cheese, and heavy cream is here to make sweet potato casserole even more indulgent. This is definitely one of our favorite Christmas dinner ideas. (via Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Healthy Butternut Squash Salad

Fill your guests' bellies with the seasonal flavors of butternut squash, apple cider, and pecans. The bacon is just the icing on the cake, so to speak. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Romanesco Christmas Trees with Parmesan "Snow"

Turn Romanesco broccolis into snow-capped trees with just six ingredients in this healthy yet cheesy dish for your next party. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Nothing will warm you to your toes quite like a good soup, and whipping one up in the slow cooker can save you time, mess, and energy. This French onion creation is a perennial favorite. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Waffle Iron Latkes

These latkes make the perfect addition to any celebration, and the best part is how easy they are! From an apple butter topping to pomegranate and Greek yogurt, there's something for everyone. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cornmeal Biscuits with Cheddar, Chives, and Jalapeños

These slightly spicy biscuits are ideal for soaking up all that gravy goodness. (via Brit + Co)

The Girl on Bloor

Taco Salad

Okay, you might be thinking, "why in the world would someone serve taco salad at Christmas?" But hear us out – this recipe is full of delicious veggies, and it's just brimming with color. Keep things red and green to stay festive, or go all-out with every color of the rainbow. (via The Girl on Bloor for Brit + Co)

Rasa Malaysia

Crispy Leaf Potatoes with Rosemary Butter

If ever there were a bulletproof case for buying a mandoline, it's these potatoes, which are sliced chip-thin, layered upright in a baking dish, and gloriously bathed in salty rosemary butter. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Sarah Anderson

Cozy Pumpkin Curry

If you're looking for vegan Christmas recipes, look no further than this warming, insanely delicious, and seasonal pumpkin curry. Just leave out the fish sauce to make it fully plant-based! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

My Kitchen Love

5-Ingredient Christmas Salad

A complicated salad is the last thing you need to worry about when picking out Christmas dinner recipes. This palate-cleansing dish is simply butter lettuce, pomegranate seeds, and a white wine vinaigrette. (via My Kitchen Love)

Main Dish Ideas For A Christmas Feast

Brit + Co

If you're tasked with cooking the bird this holiday season, look no further than this foolproof roast turkey recipe. (via Brit + Co)

Baldacci Family Vineyards

Beef Short Ribs with Vegetables

Make a statement with a delicious short rib recipe that's cozy, filling, and features an unbelievable wine sauce. Everyone will be talking about it until next Christmas. (via Baldacci Family Vineyards for Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Cranberry Glazed Turkey

Make your turkey extra-special with a delicious cranberry-pomegranate glaze everyone is sure to adore. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Simply Recipes

Roasted Chicken with Carrots

For a Christmas dinner or otherwise, every home cook needs a roast chicken recipe in their back pocket. Start with this step-by-step recipe, which shows you how to stuff, truss, roast, and baste the bird until juicy and golden brown. (via Simply Recipes)

Host The Toast

Prosciutto-Wrapped Pork Loin with Apple and Rice Stuffing

This dish combines a classic holiday side with a crowd-pleasing main, and it's wrapped in prosciutto for a show-stopping finish. (via Host The Toast)

Half Baked Harvest

Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup

Pasta doesn't get enough credit when it comes to holiday recipes, but nothing's cozier than a delicious bowl of warm tortellini. Except tortellini soup, that is! (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Roast Beef Tenderloin with Mushrooms and White Wine Cream Sauce

This melt-in-your-mouth holiday meal is cooked in one pan in under an hour. Sauté mushrooms in an oven-safe skillet, put the beef on top, roast, rest, and make a cheesy, herby cream sauce with the pan drippings. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Boulder Locavore

Turkey Roulade with Apple Cranberry Stuffing

This dish is all about texture, from the crispy bacon coat to the tender turkey in the middle and soft stuffing interior. This is one Christmas dinner recipe you won't want to miss out on. (via Boulder Locavore)

Delicious Christmas Dessert Ideas

Kurt Andre

Keto Eggnog

Got guests who are committed to the low-carb lifestyle? This keto eggnog is the perfect dessert to serve the carb-conscious. (via Annelies Zijderveld for Brit + Co)

Jessica Smith Wall

Peppermint Bark

This easy peppermint bark recipe is so simple to make, you'll have plenty of time on your hands for more ambitious endeavors — like cooking the turkey. (via Jessica Smith Wall for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Holiday Puppy Chow

Your go-to sweet treat gets a festive upgrade when you add in red and green candy! Bonus points if you have a red or green bowl to put it in. (via Brit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Jacques Torres' Chocolate Chip Cookies

No surprise here: the secret to Torres' high-quality chocolate chip cookies is high quality ingredients, like butter, flour, and chocolate. Letting the dough age for 24 hours and sprinkling it with sea salt at the end doesn't hurt, either. (via Jacques Torres for Brit + Co)

Chris Andre

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

When it's your first year hostessing, the simpler you can keep your Christmas dinner recipes, the better. That's why we're huge fans of these 3-ingredient vegan Christmas cookies. (via From Eat Your Feelings by Lindsey Smith for Brit + Co)

Half Baked Harvest

Baked Hot Chocolate Donuts

Donuts are an all-purpose treat that can serve as Christmas breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This baked hot chocolate-inspired version doesn't require any special tools to make and is uber delicious. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Dulce de Leche Cream-Filled Churro Donuts

These six-ingredient donuts, made with biscuit dough, have a cinnamon-y exterior and a rich dulce de leche filling that pairs wonderfully with Mexican hot chocolate. (via Brit + Co)

St Pierre Bakery

Eggnog French Toast

Another recipe you can serve as a Christmas dinner or brunch is this sweet French toast. The secret to nailing that 'nog flavor is the nutmeg and vanilla combo. Yum. (via St Pierre Bakery for Brit + Co)

Justina Huddleston

Easy Vegan Slow Cooker Hot Cocoa

Give your oven and your plates a break and add this dairy-free hot chocolate to your easy Christmas dinner menu, or enjoy with Christmas waffles! Add all ingredients to the slow cooker, and let the gadget do the rest for you. (via Justina Huddleston for Brit + Co)

Kurt Andre

Champagne Ice Cream

This egg-free, celebration-worthy holiday dinner idea gets its creaminess from cream cheese and, better yet, its booziness from sparkling wine. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Cinnamon Roll Pecan Pie

We call this pie holiday crack for a reason (or two): the pie crust is made of mini cinnamon rolls and the pecan filling is buttery on the verge of illegal, which definitely makes it one of our favorite holiday dishes. (via Brit + Co)

Cotter Crunch

Easy Spiced Hot Fruit Bake

Hear that? That's a scoop of ice cream begging to top this sweet tray of apple, pear, cranberry, pineapple, and gluten-free dessert. (via Cotter Crunch)

Check out our newsletter for more seasonal recipes!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Justina Huddleston and Paige Johnson.

Since cooking a Thanksgiving dinner takes a hot minute, it's not a bad idea to have some appetizerson-hand to serve your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving guests. Of course, you don’t want to have to spend a ton of time making snacks when you’re also preparing a feast – but that’s where these last-minute bites come in! These Thanksgiving appetizers will keep your guests satisfied until dinner, and they’re so easy to make, you won’t have to deal with any extra kitchen drama.

Without further ado, let's dive into these quick and easy Thanksgiving appetizers!

Fresh Eggs Daily

Baked Eggs in Butternut Squash Rings

Yummy Thanksgiving Appetizers can be as cute as they are scrumptious — like these Baked Eggs in Butternut Squash Rings recipe form Lisa Steele, author of The Fresh Eggs Daily Cookbook. Here's how you make it:

Ingredients:

  • 1 large butternut squash
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 eggs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh sage for garnish
Directions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash the squash and cut crosswise into six 3/4- to 1-inch slices. Scoop out the seeds and hollow out the middle of each slice to allow room for an egg.
  2. Arrange the squash on the baking sheet and brush each ring with olive oil inside and out, then season with salt and pepper. Bake on the center rack of the oven for 20 minutes, until the squash has softened. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and gently crack and slide 1 egg into the center of each squash ring. Season with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and return to the oven. Bake about 8 minutes, until the egg whites are set and the yolks are firm but not fully set.
  3. Use a spatula to slide the squash rings onto plates. Top with Parmesan, garnish with fresh sage, and drizzle with olive oil.

Sarah Anderson

Easy Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are such a reliable crowd-pleaser when it comes to Thanksgiving appetizer, or starters for any occasion, really! These 'shrooms in particular take inspiration from Greek cuisine and include tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, feta cheese, and salami.

Plant Provisions

Italian Savory Hand Pies

These hand pies are 100% vegan, so you can confidently serve them to a party of all diets. They're meaty, cheesy, herby, and definitely filling if you need to prep a decent snack ahead of your fancy Thanksgiving feast.

Parmigiano Reggiano

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

Chocolate and cheese work surprisingly well together, and these creative dipped bites will certainly have all the foodies at the function buzzing.

Snixy Kitchen

Butternut Squash and Bacon Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are such a classic snack, but they can easily become yummy Thanksgiving appetizers when you add butternut squash and bacon to the centers!

The Pioneer Woman

Perfect Fall Cheese Board

Transform your famous charcuterie board with fall accents to make a Thanksgivingappetizer that'll hit all the right taste buds.

Nutmeg Nanny

Sausage, Spinach and Mushroom Phyllo Cups

Don't you just love a bite-sized snack that's super quick to make?

The Home Cook's Kitchen

Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Should your guests craves something that's creamy and crunchy, serve them these bready Thanksgiving appetizers.

Half Baked Harvest

Baked French Onion Meatballs

What do you get when you combine the savory flavors of French onion soup and meatballs? We'll give you a hint — it has something to do with being irresistible.

Half Baked Harvest

Cheesy Bacon Holiday Crack

Warning: biting into these sweet, spicy, crispy, and cheesy chips is the point of no return, but it's so worth it.

Savory Tooth

Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts

Two-ingredient appetizers are always a winner in our book, and this one is extra hearty.

Pizzazzerie

Candied Walnut Bruschetta

Candied walnuts are excellent on their own, so imagine how they taste with pears and goat cheese on toast.

The Blond Cook

Crock-Pot Honey Garlic Little Smokies

Soy sauce and brown sugar coat these mini hot dogs, and a touch of Sriracha makes them even more spice-tastic.

Sunkissed Kitchen

Roasted Carrot Hummus

Carrots and cinnamon are blended with classic hummus ingredients for a healthy dip to pair with pita chips. The pomegranate and pumpkin seed garnish really ups the presentation of this Thanksgiving appetizer.

Recipe Tin Eats

Caesar Salad Wonton Cups

Keep a package of wonton wrappers in the fridge, and you’ll never have to worry about what snacks to prep next for your party guests! This recipe stuffs the wraps with Caesar salad fixings, but the options are endless.

The Real Food Dietitians

Chili and Rosemary Roasted Nuts

Even if you don’t have a ton of time, you can easily roast up a batch of these smoky mixed nuts before your guests arrive.

Tara's Multicultural Table

French Onion Soup Toasts

Turn French onion soup into a convenient appetizer with crusty bread, sautéed onions, and smoky cheese! Yummm.

The Recipe Critic

Raspberry Baked Brie

Smooth goat cheese and tart raspberry preserves are a match made in snack heaven. The crispy puff pastry layer makes it all worth it.

Lavender and Lovage

Smoked Cheese and Onion Straws

If you have cheese lingering in your deli drawer, it’s the beginning of a tasty appetizer. Sprinkle it into some puff pastry for a twisty "straw" you'll reach for again and again.

The Seasoned Mom

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

The combo of chicken, bacon, and barbecue sauce results in a Thanksgiving appetizer that's almost impossible to stop eating.

Savory Tooth

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Bacon and Cheddar

Smokey bacon and salty, nutty cheddar top some earthy mushrooms for a new version of this classic stuffed app.

The Baking Fairy

Garlic-Stuffed Olives-in-a-Blanket

If you have vegetarian guests coming to your party, you’ll want to have a tasty option for them. These olives in a "blanket" do the trick nicely! As a bonus, most store-bought crescent roll dough is vegan.

The Cookie Rookie

Best Cheese Ball

There's a reason why sharp cheddar cheese balls are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. Serve them with buttery Ritz crackers to reach total snack nirvana.

Half Baked Harvest

Whipped Goat Cheese with Warm Candied Bacon and Dates

Sweet and savory, this goat cheese dip is perfect for dipping crostini and vegetables in.

Live Eat Learn

Savory Roasted Cranberry Salsa

Top a cracker with sour cream (or brie or goat cheese) and spread on this cranberry salsa for a light, yet spicy-sweet bite.

Amanda Wilens

Pear and Gouda Puff Pastry

Pear really finds its life's purpose when it's tucked into a square of puff pastry and topped with salty gouda cheese.

Get more ideas and inspiration for your Thanksgiving appetizers and other festive holiday entertaining tips by following us on Pinterest or joining our newsletter.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Sara Cagle,Jasmine Williams, and Meredith Holser.