35 Quick and Easy Party Food Ideas to Serve a Crowd

We have gathered a collection of popular party food ideas that are easy to make and guaranteed to be crowd-pleasers. These dishes are perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations.

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Ham and Cheese Sliders recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

This easy-to-make recipe combines the classic comfort of ham and cheese sliders. Perfect for foodies and anyone craving a tasty treat.

Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Italian Hoagie Dip

Italian Hoagie Dip recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Discover the perfect party dip with our authentic Italian hoagie dip recipe. Impress your guests with this easy-to-make and delicious dip.

Get the Recipe: Italian Hoagie Dip

Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings

Frozen Air Fryer Chicken Wings recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

This Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken wings from frozen in just 30 minutes with your air fryer.

Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings

Tuna Cakes

Tuna Cakes recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to serve tuna, you’ll want to try these savory Tuna Croquettes. Each croquette is crispy on the outside, bursting with flavor on the inside, and perfect with a side of Cucumber Salad or German Potato Salad.

Get the Recipe: Tuna Cakes

Warm Crab Dip

Crab Dip recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

This cheesy Crab Dip is so easy to make; it makes the perfect quick and elegant party appetizer. Made with lump crab meat baked in a cream cheese base with cheddar and parmesan cheese mixed through green onions and gentle seasonings that give this dip just enough flavor without being too overpowering.

Get the Recipe: Warm Crab Dip

Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken Sliders

Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Discover the secret to delicious Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken Sliders. Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. A family favorite.

Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken Sliders

Smoked Salmon Dip (3 Ingredients)

Smoked Salmon Dip recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Our elegant, flavorful, creamy Smoked Salmon Dip will be the hit at your next party. In less than 5 minutes and with just 3 simple ingredients, you’ll have an elegant party appetizer to impress your guests.

Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Dip

Spinach Dip

Spinach Dip recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

There’s a reason hot spinach dip is such a popular party dip. It’s deliciously creamy, cheesy, and perfect for dipping bread or chips.

Get the Recipe: Spinach Dip

German Potato Pancakes

German Potato Panckakes (Kartoffelpuffer) recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Classic German Potato Pancakes are made from freshly grated potatoes fried to golden brown perfection. They can be served as a main course or an appetizer.

Get the Recipe: German Potato Pancakes

Roasted Red Pepper Cream Cheese Dip

A bowl of pumpkin dip with crackers on a wooden table.
Photo Credit: xoxoBella.

Although most grocery stores carry sweet pepper dip and other dipping options, this homemade roasted red pepper cream cheese dip is well worth the effort. It’s a Mediterranean inspired dip with bell peppers, basil, garlic, shallot, and more.

Get the Recipe: Roasted Red Pepper Cream Cheese Dip

Shrimp Salad

Shrimp Salad recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Shrimp Salad is delightfully light and refreshing. It’s made with perfectly cooked shrimp, onion, celery, cucumber, dill, and mayonnaise.

Get the Recipe: Shrimp Salad

Easy Crockpot BBQ Meatballs Recipe

Crockpot BBQ Meatballs recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Discover the ultimate Crockpot Barbecued Meatballs recipe, featuring tender homemade meatballs smothered in savory barbecue sauce. This dish is perfect for parties, gatherings, and get-togethers.

Get the Recipe: Easy Crockpot BBQ Meatballs

Air Fryer Shrimp

Air Fryer Shrimp recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Ditch the oven! Tender Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp is in 15 minutes. Easy recipe, no thaw, endless dip and serving options.

Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo Chicken Sliders recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Try our mouthwatering buffalo chicken sliders recipe for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. Perfect for foodies and anyone looking for a delicious option.

Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Impress your Game Day guests with these quick and delicious Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks. Perfectly crispy and ideal for snacking or entertaining.

Get the Recipe: Homemade Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

French Onion Dip

French Onion Dip recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Our creamy, easy, homemade French Onion Dip will make your next Thanksgiving an event to remember. A creamy, tangy base and deliciously sweet caramelized onions result in rich flavors that never disappoint.

Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Rotel Dip

Rotel Dip recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Indulge in a quick and delicious Rotel Dip, perfect for parties or gatherings. Just cook, mix, and serve with your favorite dippers.

Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Salami Rolls

Salami Roll-Up recipe by Cheerful Cook.
Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

Salami Roll-Ups is one of our favorite starter recipes! Salami Roll-Ups are always crowd-pleasers, from church events to birthday parties, New Year’s Eve, and any other events.

Get the Recipe: Salami Rolls

Strawberry Baked Brie

Strawberry Baked Brie recipe by Lemon Blossoms.
Photo Credit: Lemon Blossoms.

Baked brie is always an easy yet elegant option for parties. This recipe uses diced strawberries for a delicious and vibrant addition to melty cheese. Serve with crusty bread rounds or crackers for a melty, good appetizer.

Get the Recipe: Strawberry Baked Brie

Cheesy Asparagus Tarts

Cheesy Asparagus Tarts recipe by Mae’s Menu.
Photo Credit: Mae’s Menu.

Who could resist a cheesy asparagus tart on New Year’s Eve? These blend textures and flavors, from puff pastry to ricotta and roasted asparagus, for a tasty starter.

Get the Recipe: Cheesy Asparagus Tarts

Salmon Bruschetta 

Salmon Bruschetta recipe by A Full Living.
Photo Credit: A Full Living.

Bring an awesome twist to classic bruschetta for New Year’s Eve. This recipe uses salmon for a delectable combination of fresh flavors that your guests are going to love.

Get the Recipe: Salmon Bruschetta

Raspberry Goat Cheese Bites

Raspberry Goat Cheese Bites recipe by Quiche My Grits.
Photo Credit: Quiche My Grits.

These goat cheese bites couldn’t be easier or tastier for a party. Use crescent rolls to make little cups, and fill them with goat cheese and fresh berries for a treat that tantalizes the tastebuds.

Get the Recipe: Raspberry Goat Cheese Bites

Goat Cheese Honey Bites

Goat Cheese Honey Bites recipe by Suburban Simplicity.
Photo Credit: Suburban Simplicity.

New Year’s Eve appetizers don’t have to take all night to prepare. This recipe is elegant enough for a party but so easy to make that you can have a few batches ready in just a few minutes.

Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Honey Bites

Simple Charcuterie Board

Simple Charcuterie Board recipe Seanna’s Kitchen.
Photo Credit: Seanna’s Kitchen.

A charcuterie board is always a good idea for party food. While this is artfully arranged, it is the easiest appetizer option. It offers a variety so everyone can grab their favorite combination of meat, cheese, fruits, and nuts.

Get the Recipe: Simple Charcuterie Board

Ham and Cheese Empanadas

Ham and Cheese Empanadas recipe by Britney Breaks Bread.
Photo Credit: Britney Breaks Bread.

These pastry pockets have savory ham and melty cheese for a portable appetizer that guests can snack on as they catch up with everyone; no silverware is required!

Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Empanadas

Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels

Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels recipe by Homemade Hooplah.
Photo Credit: Homemade Hooplah.

This recipe for pinwheels is perfect for a party. It combines cool and creamy cheeses with spicy jalapeno peppers and bacon for a snack that satisfies anyone and everyone.

Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Popper Pinwheels

Slow Cooker Spicy Corn And Jalapeño Cheese Dip

A bowl of nachos with cheese, bacon and jalapenos.
Photo Credit: xoxoBella.

Spicy corn and jalapeño cheese dip makes great party food. You can make this jalapeño corn dip in the crockpot and make it as spicy (or not) as you choose.

Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Spicy Corn And Jalapeño Cheese Dip

Air Fryer Pigs in Blanket

Air Fryer Pigs in Blankets recipe by Homemade Interest.
Photo Credit: Homemade Interest.

Let your air fryer do the work of making a simple and tasty appetizer. These little sausages in crescent roll dough will be a hit at your NYE gathering. Offer several sauces and varieties of mustard for your guests to dip into.

Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pigs In Blanket

Puff Pastry Cheese Straws

Puff Pastry Cheese Straws recipe by So Yummy Recipes.
Photo Credit: So Yummy Recipes.

Cheese straws are a must-make for any party. They are so easy and so delicious. Use puff pastry to make short work of this appetizer. These are so yummy that you might want to make a double batch!

Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Cheese Straws

Cheese Babka

Cheese Babka recipe by Britney Breaks Bread.
Photo Credit: Britney Breaks Bread.

This cheese babka is the perfect option to offer as a New Year’s Eve starter. It is buttery and garlicky and so good!  Your guests will love this and likely ask for the recipe.

Get the recipe: Cheese Babka

Potato Skins

Potato Skins recipe by i Heart Nap Time.
Photo Credit: i Heart Nap Time.

Potato skins are a classic starter everyone loves, so why not make a batch as party food? With so much melty cheese and crispy bacon, your guests won’t resist grabbing a second one!

Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Smoked Salmon Bites

Smoked Salmon Bites recipe by Masala Herb.
Photo Credit: Masala Herb.

Smoked salmon with dill makes for such a wonderful appetizer. These are small in size but deliver big, delicious flavors! The sour cream offers the best creaminess to pair with the smokiness of the fish.

Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Bites

Sausage Rolls

Sausage Rolls recipe by In the Kitch.
Photo Credit: In the Kitch.

Sausage tucked into pastry and baked to golden brown perfection sounds like a great party food! This recipe couldn’t be easier or tastier for a filling appetizer option. Top these with sesame seeds, and offer a few dips for your guests to enjoy.

Get the Recipe: Sausage Rolls

Grape Jelly Meatballs

Grape Jelly Meatballs recipe by Spend with Pennies.
Photo Credit: Spend with Pennies.

Pull out your slow cooker to make this easy party appetizer. Grape jelly meatballs are so simple yet so delicious. Your guests can grab a few toothpicks for a munchie they can enjoy as they mingle.

Get the Recipe: Grape Jelly Meatballs

Maike Corbett is the founder and food blogger of Cheerful Cook, a popular recipe website featuring comfort food recipes from the US and Germany. She has been featured in numerous media outlets, including the AP Wire and MSN.

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