Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving with your family or having a cozy dinner for two, you want some time to sit back and relax on Turkey Day – even to enjoy some fun holiday games and activities while you wait for the turkey to brown. Make the day way easier by whipping up any of these easy make-aheadThanksgivingappetizer recipes and give yourself an actual Thanksgiving break.
Brit + Co
Bread Cornucopia and Cheese
Nothing says Thanksgiving like a cornucopia, so a bread cornucopia is the perfect appetizer centerpiece for your pre-feast party. (via Brit + Co)
Half Baked Harvest
Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic Thanksgiving appetizer. With this recipe, you can prep a creamy, buttery batch ahead of the big day and have it ready to go when your guests gather together. (via Half Baked Harvest for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Mac + Cheese Donuts
Not every appetizer has to be high rent. Whether you're prepping for Friendsgiving or an Turkey Day with your closest family, these delicious edibles will be a crowd pleaser. (via Brit + Co)
The Cafe Sucre Farine
Rosemary Pecan Goat Cheese Truffles
These babies are actually pretty darn classy, and they showcase all the flavors of the spectrum. There's rosemary for herb lovers, pecan to add some nuttiness, and even Sriracha for a bit of heat. Pro tip: Serve with a basic crispy wafer so as not to detract from the spread. (via The Cafe Sucre Farine)
Nerds With Knives
Crostini With Bleu Cheese and Roasted Grapes
This recipe takes almost no time to make. Slice up some blue cheese and add grapes to your favorite baguette. (via Nerds With Knives)
Little Spice Jar
Gruyere, Mushroom, and Caramelized Onion Bites
Add Gruyere, mushrooms, and caramelized onions to puffed pastry for a simple and delicious appetizer. And the best part is, you can make this up to 48 hours ahead of time, giving you plenty of wiggle room for your Turkey Day prep. (via Little Spice Jar)
Better Homes & Gardens
Cran-Sage Rolls
Not only is there nothing wrong with using frozen dough once in a while, but it's actually kind of a perfect Thanksgiving treat. These rolls are flavored with cranberries and sage for an elegant holiday version of trust crescent rolls. (via Better Homes & Gardens)
Hello Little Home
Ranch Pumpkin Seeds
These pumpkin seeds are both salty and tangy, plus you get a nice crunch from baking them for a bit. (via Hello Little Home)
I Will Not Eat Oysters
Kabocha and Havarti Pockets
Prepare these hearty pockets a few days before Thanksgiving, stick them in the fridge, and bake on the day of. (via I Will Not Eat Oysters)
Real Housemoms
Onion, Cranberry, and Pecan Cheese Ball
Cheese balls are a classic appetizer. Add onion, cranberries, and pecans to make yours next-level. (via Real Housemoms)
Well Plated
Cranberry Baked Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Brie can get super messy. Make bites instead and pop some cranberry in them to Thanksgiving-ify. Serve with fresh cranberries or — our personal favorite — sweet cranberry sauce. (via Well Plated)
How Sweet Eats
Pomegranate Jeweled White Cheddar, Toasted Almond, and Crispy Sage Cheeseball
This big bundle of flavor is so cheesy. It's coated in pomegranate seeds, which makes it super festive and sweet. (via How Sweet Eats)
The Suburban Soapbox
Tomato Jam and Cheddar Palmiers
TBH the thought of tomato jam is a little scary. But, once you try this recipe, you and your fam will be totally hooked. Add a little cheddar to make these extra flavorful. (via The Suburban Soapbox)
Recipe Rebel
Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini
These tiny crostinis take the idea of bruschetta and turn it on its head. Instead of light, summery toppings, you'll be treated to festive cranberries, savory bacon, and gooey cheese. (via Recipe Rebel)
Home Is Where the Boat Is
Cha-Cha Chicken Salad
There's an unexpected sweetness to this chicken salad, and it comes from pineapples and cranberries. Top with a fresh sprig of rosemary. (via Home Is Where the Boat Is)
Chew Out Loud
Pumpkin Bacon Dip
Nothing says Thanksgiving more than pumpkin-flavored everything, and that doesn't stop at chips and dip. Top this dip with bacon and green onions for extra flavor. (via Chew Out Loud)
Gimme Some Oven
5-Ingredient Caprese Phyllo Cups
Caprese is one of those crowd-pleasing dishes that you really can't go wrong with. Drizzle these with pesto or balsamic vinaigrette for extra flavor, but wait to do that part until you're ready to serve — otherwise they may get soggy. (via Gimme Some Oven)
Deliciously Sprinkled
Pumpkin Dip
When it comes to dips, what could be more Thanksgiving-y than a concoction made with pumpkin? Serve with crackers, apples, or lightly sweetened cookies to tide your guests over until the big meal. (via Deliciously Sprinkled)
Food & Wine
Prosciutto-Fontina Pinwheels
Thinly sliced prosciutto, Fontina cheese, and puff pastry are just about all you need to make these pinwheels. The best part is that they totally make you into the best ever Turkey Day hostess. (via Food & Wine)
The Suburban Soapbox
Sweet and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Go for a not-so-traditional Thanksgiving food and cook up a batch of stuffed mushrooms. The sweet and spicy flavors of this app will make it go fast. (via The Suburban Soapbox)
Pip and Ebby
Antipasto Skewers
Assemble these skewers a day ahead of schedule. Put them on a tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate until ready to serve. (via Pip and Ebby)
Amy in the Kitchen
Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp Dip
Dip toast points, pita chips, and breadsticks into this indulgent dip, which you can make a day before Thanksgiving and pop in the oven to warm up when you're ready to eat. We won't judge if you decide to toss the leftovers with some warm pasta and call it a meal. (via Amy in the Kitchen)
My Gorgeous Recipes
Quick Chicken Liver Pâté
Go old school this Thanksgiving, serving chicken liver pâté and toast points as an appetizer. The pâté will keep for a few days in the fridge; just let it sit for 20 minutes at room temperature before you dig in. (via My Gorgeous Recipes)
Tara's Multicultural Table
Bavarian Cheese and Beer Spread
A robust cheese spread, made with beer, is an appropriately hearty start to your Thanksgiving feast. (via Tara's Multicultural Table)
Savory Tooth
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
We all have that family member who claims they don't like Brussels sprouts. Change their mind with these bacon-wrapped versions, which you can make ahead and heat in the oven just before serving (though they're delish at room temperature too). (via Savory Tooth)
The Home Cook's Kitchen
Mushroom Goat Cheese Bruschetta
Earthy mushrooms and tangy goat cheese create a balanced bite with this bruschetta recipe. Make sure your bread is extra toasty, so you can prep it without worrying about it getting soggy. (via The Home Cook's Kitchen)
No Spoon Necessary
Roasted Sweet Potato Harissa Hummus
Ditch the candied sweet potatoes and serve up this creamy hummus instead. It'll keep for at least a couple of days in the fridge, freeing up time for you to work on the rest of your seasonal cooking. (via No Spoon Necessary)
Sweet Peas and Saffron
Lasagna Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Make these stuffed mushrooms, freeze them, then pop 'em into the oven on Thanksgiving. Just try to resist eating so many you lose your appetite before the big meal. (via Sweet Peas and Saffron)
Spicy Southern Kitchen
Spicy Marinated Cheese
The cheese is marinated in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and spices, and gets better if you make it a day or two in advance. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)
Lisa's Dinnertime Dish
Italian Sausage and Bean Bruschetta
Loaded with Italian sausage and white beans, this take on bruschetta is hearty enough for colder weather. Warm it up slightly before serving with toasted baguette slices. (via Lisa's Dinnertime Dish)
Cathy's Gluten Free
Sweet Potato Salad with Bacon
A little sweet, a little salty, this paleo salad is a satisfying but healthy starter. Top it with toasted pecans to add some crunch to each bite. (via Cathy's Gluten Free)
Garlic & Zest
Prosciutto and Date Palmiers
Flaky, cheesy, and sweet, palmiers will definitely stimulate your tastebuds. (via Garlic & Zest)
Food Meanderings
Caesar Twice-Baked Potatoes
Mini potatoes seasoned with Caesar dressing are twice-baked for this recipe. You can assemble them ahead of time, then bake them for the second time right before they're served! (via Food Meanderings)
Half Baked Harvest
Baked French Onion Meatballs
Talk about yum. Beef up your classic French onion soup recipe with a few meatballs to add a hearty touch, and top them off with a bit of gruyere. Trust us: your guests are going to thank you. (via Half Baked Harvest)Barley & Sage
Goat Cheese Risotto with Cherry Tomato Confit
This easy-peasy recipe is actually pretty darn classy and showcases all the flavors on the spectrum. There's basil for herb lovers, plump cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor, and a mix-in of goat cheese for an elevated flavor. (via Barley & Sage)
Whole and Heavenly Oven
Caprese Bruschetta with Basil Pesto
This recipe takes almost no time to make. Slice up some mozzarellaslices, tomatoes, and drizzle some vinaigrette and pesto to your favorite baguette. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)
Where is My Spoon?
Puff Pastry Nibbles
Add sliced tomatoes, pesto (store-bought or homemade!), and sprinkle on some hard cheese to puff pastry pieces for a simple and delicious Thanksgiving appetizer. And the best part is, you can make this up to 48 hours ahead of time, giving you plenty of wiggle room for your Turkey Day prep. (via Where is My Spoon?)
Two Peas & Their Pod
Stuffed Mushrooms
We get it: either you love mushrooms or you hate them with a passion, but this recipe is bound to convert any hater. These mushrooms are jam-packed with parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs for a delectable Thanksgiving finger food. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)
Culinary Hill
2-Ingredient Italian Sausage Rolls
These 2-ingredient rolls are sure to please both the kids and adults tables this year. Make them ahead of time, then easily heat them back up once Thanksgiving Day rolls around. (via Culinary Hill)
A Spicy Perspective
Bacon Kalamata Cheese Puffs
For those who don't already know, kalamata is a type of olive… which makes these appetizers perfect for your vegetarian guests. Prepare these pockets a few days before Thanksgiving, stick them in the fridge, and bake the day of. (via A Spicy Perspective)The Fast Recipe
Spicy Cajun Deviled Eggs
What *doesn't* sound good about these deviled eggs? Cajun seasoning and hot sauce give these otherwise totally traditionalfinger foods a savory, rich layer of flavor. (via The Fast Recipe)
The Bossy Kitchen
Cheese Straws with Feta and Poppy Seeds
To make these cheese straws, twist together some feta and a homemade dough, then bake. These taste ahh-mazing all on their own, but you can get creative with the toppings if you're feeling frisky. (via The Bossy Kitchen)
Takes Two Eggs
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread
Cheese bread is a classic appetizer. The cream cheese and honey butter in this recipe takes this to the next level. (via Takes Two Eggs)Half Baked Harvest
Mini Pastry Wrapped Cranberry Baked Brie Bites
Brie can get super messy. Make some tiny bites instead, and pop some cranberry in them to Thanksgiving-ify. Serve with fresh cranberries or — our personal favorite — sweet cranberry sauce. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Averie Cooks
Dill Pickle Cheese Ball
While the term “cheese ball" might not sound particularly refined, this big bundle of flavor actually kinda is. It's coated in cheddar cheese, for one thing, which makes it a total crowd-pleaser. We recommend adding pickle slices to this bad boy for extra oomph. (via Averie Cooks)The Endless Meal
Crispy Boursin Arancini
Crispy Boursin arancinis the perfect make-ahead appetizer that you can reheat in the oven. Once you try this recipe, you and your fam will be totally hooked. The Boursin center make these extra flavorful! (via The Endless Meal)Cozy Cravings
Spinach and Ricotta Puff Pastry Pinwheels
These spinach and ricotta pinwheels take pre-dinner bread to a whole other level. Enjoy a swirl of buttery puff pastry, salty parmesan, and gooey ricotta for the ultimate savory treat. (via Cozy Cravings)
The Bossy Kitchen
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Nothing says Thanksgiving more than cranberry-infused everything, and that doesn't stop at chips and dip! Top this dip with slivered almonds and green onions for extra flavor. (via The Bossy Kitchen)
Hello Little Home
Baked Brie with Cranberries & Pecans
There's an unexpected sweetness to this baked brie, and it comes from the cranberries. Prep ahead then bake to experience the ooey-gooey center. (via Hello Little Home)
The First Mess
Roasted Carrot & Harissa Chickpea Dip
When it comes to prepping ahead, dips of any kind are a crowd-pleasing dish that you really can't go wrong with. Top this spread with pine nuts and pomegranate pearls for extra flavor, but wait to do that part until you're ready to serve it — otherwise, it may all get mixed in. (via The First Mess)
Live Eat Learn
Leek Quiche Recipe with Goat Cheese
One of the best things about a quiche is that you can eat it at any time of year. Full of leeks and cheesy goodness, this recipe is a great way to sneak in some vegetables ahead of the big feast. (via Live Eat Learn)
The Endless Meal
Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip
This Thanksgiving, indulge in the traditional decadence that is a spinach and artichoke dip. The best part about a tried and true favorite like this is that it'll totally make you the best-ever Turkey Day hostess! (via The Endless Meal)
Rachel Mansfield
Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups
Speaking of spinach artichoke dip, opt for these lil' cups to avoid the mess. You definitely won't have to worry about forgetting the chips! (via Rachel Mansfield)
Two Peas & Their Pod
Cherry Arugula Farro Salad
Go for a not-so-traditional Thanksgiving food and whip up a light, yet filling salad. The sweet and crunchy texture of this appetizer will make it go fast. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)
Salt & Lavender
Easy Antipasto Skewers
Assemble these skewers a day ahead of schedule. Put them on a tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate until you're ready to serve them. (via Salt & Lavender)Join our newsletter for more make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizers and other delicious recipe ideas!
This article has been updated with additional reporting by Maggie McCracken, Justina Huddleston, and Meredith Holser.
