52 Best New Year’s Eve Appetizers for Your Party

Whipped Feta Dip Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Whipped Feta Dip

Light and creamy, whipped feta makes a great dipper for the center of a colorful crudite platter. Herbaceous Greek seasoning and citrusy lemon cut through the salty richness of the whipped yogurt and feta mixture, and fresh mint adds a nice brightness.

“The base of this whipped feta dip is a fantastic blank canvas for different flavors. This version is flavored with garlic and lemon.” —Recipe contributor Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia

Crab Dip Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Crab Dip

If you’re really looking to impress, set out a seafood appetizer at your New Year’s Eve party. This crab dip only needs about 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes in the oven. After that, you’ll have a cheesy, warming crab dip that guests will stand over—tortilla chips in hand—all night.

“Made with lump crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, cream cheese and chives, this baked crab dip makes the perfect appetizer! Make it dairy-free using plant-based, non-dairy cream cheese and dairy-free cheddar cheese. If desired, top with diced green onions as a substitute for chives.” —Recipe contributor Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, Michigan

Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket

Every time I look at this recipe, I think of the next excuse I can use to bake it. Lucky for you, it’s perfect for a New Year’s Eve party. Made with buttery crescent dough, smoky sausages, nutty Gouda and sweet apples, this pigs in a blanket recipe is beautifully complex. The honey mustard dipping sauce ties it all together.

“For New Year’s Eve appetizers, I used to make pigs in a blanket with beef and cheddar. But now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration.” —Recipe contributor Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin

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Cheese Lover’s Fondue

If you made the effort to put out cheese fondue, congratulations: You just threw the best New Year’s Eve party ever! Gruyere and Swiss cheese are melted with dry white wine and flavored with aromatics. Make sure it sits in a fondue pot all night to stay warm and serve it with smoked sausages, dill pickles, crunchy pretzels and cubed bread.

“French bread cubes and apples are the perfect dippers for this classic fondue, made with white wine and Swiss and Gruyere cheeses. It’s a crowd pleaser.” —Recipe contributor Linda Vogel, Elgin, Illinois

Cinnamon Praline Nuts Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Cinnamon Praline Nuts

Holiday-spiced nuts are a nice little snack to have throughout the night. Don’t put them out on the buffet table; instead, place them on a coffee table or side table so guests can casually snack all night.

“Take these crunchy bites anywhere! Serve them at your holiday party, wrap up a batch for your favorite hostess, or sneak some for a midnight snack. They’ll get gobbled up so quickly that you’ll want to make several batches!” —Recipe contributor Amy Miller, Holstein, Iowa

Crumb-Topped Clams Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Crumb-Topped Clams

Shucking clams takes a little finesse at first, but you’ll quickly pick up on the technique after the first two. After they’re open, fill them with a bread crumb mixture and brown them under the broiler. If you can find them, serve the baked clams with tiny little forks, and these one-bite wonders will become one of the most memorable appetizers at your party.

“In my family, it wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve without baked clams. However, they make a special bite for any occasion and are easy to make and always a hit.” —Recipe contributor Annmarie Lucente, Monroe, New York

Puff Pastry Holly Leaves

For those who firmly believe Christmas festivities can extend to New Year’s Eve, this one’s for you! These holly-shaped little bites are assembled with premade puff pastry and a simple cheese, pesto and parsley filling. In my experience, this type of appetizer is usually gone within the first hour.

“These elegant appetizers get rave reviews at my office holiday party. The pastry leaves look as if they require hours in the kitchen, but the prep work takes just 30 minutes.” —Recipe contributor Angela King, Walnut Cove, North Carolina

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Pizza Muffins

Pizza is a hit no matter the holiday, and this handheld mini version makes mingling and snacking that much easier. If your other appetizers aren’t very filling, definitely make sure these are on the table.

“I just baked these mini pizzas and the kids are already demanding more. The no-cook pizza sauce and refrigerated dough make this meal a snap.” —Recipe contributor Melissa Haines, Valparaiso, Indiana

Finger-Licking Good Mini Cream Puffs Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Mini Cream Puffs

For a party that’s more of a soiree, fancier desserts will complement those Champagne cocktails. Cream puffs are also known as profiteroles in France, where they originated. They’re decadent right to their custard core, but they can also be filled with whipped cream or ice cream if you don’t want to mess with making custard. J’adore!

“This New Year’s Eve finger food is quick and easy to whip up and the kids will love it! They are perfect to pack for a picnic or to have as a snack for family game night. I guarantee you can’t eat just one… they are so addicting and they’re perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth!” —Recipe contributor Jennifer Erwin, Reynoldsburg, Ohio

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Mini Burgers with the Works

You can add as many or as few toppings as you’d like to these mini skewer burgers. Either way, they’re going to be a crowd favorite.

“I started preparing these mini burgers several years ago as a creative way to use up bread crusts accumulating in my freezer. They’re delicious.” —Recipe contributor Linda Lane, Bennington, Vermont

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Stuffed Mini Peppers

These bites are a cousin to jalapeno poppers but without the spicy kick that not everyone can handle. Instead, sweet peppers become the crunchy vessel for the cheesy broccoli filling.

“There’s plenty of both crunch and cream in these party appetizers. Fresh chives help them really stand out.” —Recipe contributor Jean McKenzie, Vancouver, Washington

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Red Velvet Cake Balls

Want to make these a bit more themed for the holiday? Once the chocolate has set, brush on food-grade edible gold paint or top each cake ball with a tiny edible gold leaf. Shimmer and shine are the staples of a festive New Year’s Eve party.

“Everyone loves red velvet, but any cake mix can work here. I’ve even rolled chopped macadamia nuts into pineapple cake and dipped them into white chocolate. Whatever you do, have fun!” —Recipe contributor Anne Powers, Munford, Alabama

Crispy Crab Rangoon Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Crispy Crab Rangoon

Ask anyone about their favorite Chinese takeout order, and they’ll almost always say crab rangoon. Well, it turns out they’re easy to make at home, too! If you love the idea but don’t want to pull out the deep fryer, try baked crab rangoon.

“My husband loved the appetizers we ordered at a Chinese restaurant so much that I was determined to develop a crab rangoon recipe to make them at home.” —Recipe contributor Cathy Blankman, Warroad, Minnesota

Taco Pinwheels Recipe photo by Nicole Perry for Taste of Home

Taco Pinwheels

Keep in mind that some people may show up to your New Year’s Eve party without any dinner in their stomachs. These taco pinwheels are a satiating snack, especially if you serve them alongside chile con queso.

“These pinwheels come together quickly when you start with leftover taco meat. They make an appealing New Year’s Eve party appetizer served with salsa, or a fun lunch option with a salad on the side.” —Recipe contributor Cindy Reams, Philipsburg, Pennsylvania

Jam-Topped Mini Cheesecakes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Mini Cheesecake

The great aspect of these cheesecakes—besides their handheld size—is that they taste better the day after they’re baked. That means you can knock out these cheesecakes a day or two before your party and take them out of the fridge whenever you’re ready to serve them.

“Presto! We turned cheesecake into irresistible bite-sized snacks with these cute little treats. Feel free to use your favorite flavor of jam.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Deviled Eggs

To be honest, I can’t think of a single party where deviled eggs wouldn’t be the star. From Fourth of July to New Year’s Eve, everyone loves to eat deviled eggs. You don’t have to make them plain, either; this recipe includes plenty of variations with fun flavor ideas!

“Herbs lend amazing flavor to these deviled eggs, which truly are the best you can make! The recipe includes tasty variations that feature bacon, chipotle peppers and crab.” —Recipe contributor Jesse & Anne Foust, Bluefield, West Virginia

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Ham and Cheese Sliders

Sliders toe the line between appetizer and meal, which is exactly what you want to have peppered in between dips and one-bite snacks. This unfussy recipe can be assembled in advance and baked 30 minutes before your guests show up.

“My next-door neighbor shared this recipe with me and I simply cannot improve it! You can make it ahead and cook it quickly when company arrives. The combo of flavors makes these sandwiches so delicious.” —Recipe contributor Iris Weihemuller, Baxter, Minnesota

Mini Cheese Balls Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Mini Cheese Balls

Talk about a grab-and-go delight: These little cheese balls are handheld, thanks to the rye crisp stuck into the top of each one. You can roll them in different coatings, too, so guests can have options.

“These mini cheese balls are the perfect quick appetizer for any party. Roll them in toasted sesame seeds, fresh rosemary and/or paprika to add even more flavor.” —Recipe contributor J. Spivey, Ennice, North Carolina

Miniature Peanut Butter Treats Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Miniature Peanut Butter Treats

To make this recipe go even quicker, buy unwrapped peanut butter cups—or call in help from tiny hands to help you unwrap each one. These cookies are akin to peanut butter blossoms, but baked in a muffin tin.

“This New Year’s Eve finger food is one of my family’s favorites, and I make the treats a lot, especially around New Year’s Eve. I have three children and eight grandchildren, and every one of them loves those “peanut butter thingies,” as the grandchildren call them!” —Recipe contributor Jodie McCoy, Tulsa, Oklahoma

Bacon Cheddar Potato Skins Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Bacon Cheddar Potato Skins

Potato skins are at the top of my list of all-time favorite appetizers. If you want to turn this recipe into a two-for-one, save all of the potato pulp to make potato croquettes.

“Wondering how to make potato skins taste great? Both crisp and hearty, this restaurant-quality snack is one that my family requests often.” —Recipe contributor Trish Perrin, Keizer, Oregon

Sausage Cheese Puffs Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Sausage Cheese Puffs

Cheese puffs are one of those gone-before-you-know-it party appetizers. But if you do end up with any leftovers after midnight, these puffs also taste fantastic for New Year’s Day brunch.

“People are always surprised when I tell them there are only four ingredients in this easy sausage ball recipe. Cheesy and spicy, the golden morsels are a fun novelty at a breakfast or brunch, and they also make yummy party appetizers.” —Recipe contributor Della Moore, Troy, New York.

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Fried Prosciutto Tortellini

Toasted ravioli, meet fried prosciutto tortellini. These two recipes are basically cousins, but this appetizer is a bit fancier because of the prosciutto ricotta tortellini and a homemade marinara dipping sauce. It even sounds fancy!

“My take on Italian street food, these fried tortellini are crunchy, gooey good. For the sauce, use the best quality tomatoes you can find.” —Recipe contributor Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey

Holiday Meringue Miniatures Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Holiday Meringue Miniatures

Yes, Christmas desserts are definitely allowed on New Year’s Eve! And a dessert as light, delicate and sweet as these mini holiday meringues is a welcome sight at any party.

“My kids love these light melt-in-your-mouth cookies, and we have fun making them. These were always a favorite New Year’s Eve finger food when I was a kid, and now the tradition continues.” —Recipe contributor Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Miniature Corn Dogs Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Mini Corn Dogs

The young and the young-at-heart will go wild for these mini corn dogs. To ensure they’re hot and crispy, fry them just before your guests arrive. Then, serve them with a variety of dipping sauces.

“Fun-sized corn dogs add a little “wow” factor to any cookout or get-together. Kids and adults equally love them, so expect them to disappear fast.” —Recipe contributor Deb Perry, Bluffton, Indiana

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Korean Wontons

One of our best hosting tips is to fill your buffet table with options, including different textures and a range of flavors. These crispy Korean wontons are filled with cabbage, bean sprouts, ground beef and a ton of aromatics. They will break up the monotony from any soft-textured, cheese-based dishes.

“Korean wontons (called mandoo) are not hot and spicy like many of the traditional Korean dishes. Filled with inexpensive vegetables and beef, the fried dumplings are very easy to prepare and so tasty!” —Recipe contributor Christy Lee, Horsham, Pennsylvania.

Spinach-Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Spinach-Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms

Here is a vegetarian and gluten-free recipe that’s elegant, easy and oh-so-delicious. Stir together the filling, stuff it into the mushrooms and bake. They’ll be ready to serve before you know it.

“I used this recipe when I was in a culinary-arts program and had to prepare an entire buffet by myself. It’s an impressive New Year’s Eve finger food, yet goes together so easily.” —Recipe contributor Amy Gaisford, Salt Lake City, Utah

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Garlic-Herb Mini Quiches

Using a packet of seasoned Boursin cheese and store-bought phyllo tartlet shells makes it easy to throw together these mini quiches. If you want to make them fancier, our recipe offers variations for a crab rangoon or a smoky apricot version.

“Looking for a wonderful way to impress guests? You’ve got it—and you need only five ingredients to make these tasty New Year’s Eve finger foods!” —Recipe contributor Josephine Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania

Miniature Almond Tarts Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Miniature Almond Tarts

A melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese shell, a marzipan filling and a light frosting are the main components of these mini almond tarts. Like any good dessert, they’re finished with a cherry on top.

“My family requests these adorable little tarts every New Year’s Eve. I always enjoy making them since the almond paste in the filling reflects our Dutch heritage. They’re super popular at special gatherings.” —Recipe contributor Karen Van Den Berge, Holland, Michigan

Brie-Leek Tartlets Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Brie-Leek Tartlets

Elegant appetizers start with fancy ingredients. Fresh leeks and Brie cheese are the main components, and the mini tart vessels will make people think your event was catered. No one has to know that the shells are from store-bought phyllo dough.

“My family is picky, but everyone loves these little bites. I make dozens of them at a time because they’re gone the second I turn my back.” —Recipe contributor Colleen MacDonald, Port Moody, British Columbia

Caprese Salad Kabobs Recipe photo by Eric Kleinberg for Taste of Home

Caprese Skewers

Caprese salad kabobs are, without a doubt, the easiest New Year’s Eve appetizer you can make. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a plate full of these grab-and-go kabobs that taste like an expensive appetizer at a genuine Italian restaurant.

“Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help.” —Recipe contributor Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California

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Stuffed Asiago-Basil Mushrooms

If you struggle to get vegetables on the appetizer table, these stuffed mushrooms have your back. They’re earthy and herbaceous but still warm and comforting since they’re baked with Asiago and Parmesan cheeses.

“Even if you don’t like mushrooms, you will have to try them again with these pretty appetizers, which taste divine. For a main dish, double the filling and use large portobellos.” —Recipe contributor Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario

Puff Pastry Danishes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Puff Pastry Danishes

These puff pastry danishes are a bit unexpected, making them all the more intriguing at a party. If a sweetened cream cheese and raspberry jam filling is too “brunchy” for you, replace it with Nutella. At that point, you’re basically bringing over chocolate-hazelnut croissants. Who could resist?

“Even though they’re simple to make, these jam-filled pastries are right at home in a New Year’s Eve finger food spread. They were my dad’s favorite, so the recipe will always be close to my heart.” —Recipe contributor Chellie Helmke, Jackson Center, Ohio

Marinated Mozzarella Recipe photo by Julia Hartbeck for Taste of Home

Marinated Mozzarella

Any recipe that needs to marinate is a great make-ahead recipe for a party. Prepare marinated mozzarella a day or two ahead of time, then take it out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving so the oil can come to room temperature.

“I always come home with an empty container when I bring this dish to a New Year’s Eve party. It can be made ahead to free up time later. I serve it with pretty frilled toothpicks for a festive look.” —Recipe contributor Peggy Cairo, Kenosha, Wisconsin

Zucchini & Cheese Roulades Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Zucchini & Cheese Roulades

Here’s another vegetarian, naturally gluten-free and low-carb appetizer for guests with special diets. For something similar and cozier (but no longer gluten-free), you could swap the zucchini for eggplant and bake eggplant rollatini with homemade tomato sauce.

“My husband enjoys this New Year’s Eve finger food so much that he even helps me roll up the roulades! You can change the filling any way you like—I have used feta instead of Parmesan, or sun-dried tomatoes in the place of the olives.” —Recipe contributor April McKinney, Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Mini Party Burgers

These little mini burgers are wrapped in puff pastry instead of being sandwiched in a bun, which makes them easier to hold in just one hand. Keep the filling simple with ranch-seasoned ground beef and Harvarti cheese, then set out several different dipping sauces so everyone can choose their own adventure.

“We love finger foods in the South. For parties, I make mini burgers in advance and then wrap them in pastry, bake them and serve them with assorted sauces.” —Recipe contributor Monica Flatford, Knoxville, Tennessee

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Meatball Sliders

This recipe captures the goodness of meatball subs but makes ‘em mini! Although premade meatballs would make this recipe quicker, the homemade ones make all the difference.

“These meatball sliders are a fun way to serve meatballs at your party without using a slow cooker. Made on mini Hawaiian rolls, they have a hint of sweetness to balance out all the wonderful Italian seasonings.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls

While you can certainly make Buffalo chicken dip and set out a bunch of crackers on the side, these Buffalo chicken crescent rolls are an all-in-one appetizer that only requires one hand to enjoy.

“My husband loves Buffalo wings, but they are so messy! These Buffalo chicken rolls are mess-free and always go fast at parties—and they’re much tastier than regular Buffalo wings, if you ask me.” —Recipe contributor Tiffinie Cichon, Gulfport, Mississippi

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Toasted Ravioli

Toasted ravioli is a St. Louis staple. Crispy, cheesy and savory, they’re especially delicious when skewered on a stick and dipped into marinara sauce or pesto. “Toasted” is code for “deep-fried,” although you can crisp them up in an air fryer if you prefer.

“While visiting a friend who had just moved to St. Louis, Missouri, I tried toasted ravioli at almost every restaurant! When I got home, I had to try to replicate them, and this New Year’s Eve finger food comes pretty close.” —Recipe contributor Cristina Carrera, Kenosha, Wisconsin

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Buttery Radish Baguette

The combination of radishes, butter and a tiny bit of salt is a classic French snack. Put it on a fresh baguette, and you’ll have a filling appetizer that will ensure your guests won’t leave hungry.

“My dad and brother are crazy for radishes, and this peppery baguette appetizer is a big-time favorite. Add a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley on top.” —Recipe contributor Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, Rhode Island

Garlic Pizza Wedges Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Garlic Pizza Wedges

These garlic pizza wedges are akin to flatbread, which is always welcome as a shared appetizer. The red onion, garlic and salty Parmesan create a pungent pizza, so don’t forget the Alfredo sauce for dipping.

“Our pastor made this for a New Year’s Eve party, and my husband and I just couldn’t stay away from the hors d’oeuvres table. The cheesy slices taste great served warm, but they’re still wonderful when they’ve cooled slightly.” —Recipe contributor Krysten Johnson, Simi Valley, California

Mini Chimichangas

These crispy mini chimichangas are filled with a hearty combination of ground beef, spicy green chilis and cheese, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Set out sour cream and salsa for dipping.

“Wish your guests a happy New Year with this south-of-the-border specialty! Hearty enough to serve as a meal, these flavorful and filling wraps draw raves whenever I serve them.” —Recipe contributor Kathy Rogers, Hudson, Ohio

Chicken Bites with Apricot Sauce Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Chicken Bites with Apricot Sauce

These chicken bites mimic the taste of fried chicken without having to deep fry a single thing. Instead, a cornflake breading gives the oven-baked chicken a crispy texture, meaning there won’t be any lingering deep-fried smells during your party.

“Satisfying a hungry crowd is simple with these oven-baked morsels. The bite-sized chicken pieces are served with an incredibly easy sauce that combines apricot preserves and mustard.” —Recipe contributor Michelle Krzmarzick, Redondo Beach, California

Nacho Triangles with Salsa-Ranch Dipping Sauce

The beauty of these handheld nacho triangles is that you get to enjoy the flavor of nachos without having to grab from a mountain of chips. You’ll never have to worry about unevenly dispersed toppings! Instead, each triangle is stuffed with ground beef, onions, cheese, jalapenos, tomatoes and corn, then lovingly wrapped in phyllo dough and baked to golden perfection.

“These nacho bites are a fun fusion of Greek appetizers and flavors of the American Southwest. The simple dipping sauce is a perfect match—the ranch balances out the heat of the jalapeno and chipotle peppers—and takes the recipe to the next level.” —Recipe contributor Angela Spengler, Niceville, Florida

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Baked potato rounds are a quicker and more appetizer-friendly version of a loaded baked potato. Load up the little rounds with your favorite baked potato toppings and set them out on a serving platter.

“This New Year’s Eve finger food is made with simple ingredients yet yields a sophisticated result. Feel free to get creative with the flavors. Try shredded white cheddar in place of mozzarella or thyme instead of the rosemary.” —Recipe contributor Amanda Digges, South Windsor, Connecticut

Mini Fruitcakes Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Mini Fruitcakes

Stop! Don’t scroll away because you saw the word “fruitcake.” These are not your average dense, heavy loaves that everyone avoids. Instead, this recipe omits the molasses, so the fruitcakes stay light and fluffy.

“Fruitcake always looked so festive to me but I did not like the hard citron fruit so I came up with my own recipe using dried fruits and nuts. I place these in Christmas-themed petit fours paper cups and give them to neighbors and friends along with the many other cookies and candies I bake. These keep well in the freezer in an airtight container. Just thaw to room temperature and they taste fresh baked and moist.” —Recipe contributor Lisa McDermith, Highland, California

Bacon Cheeseburger Balls Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Bacon Cheeseburger Balls

Grape jelly and chili sauce meatballs are a classic party appetizer, but they’re a little overdone. Instead, serve an unexpected equivalent: bacon cheeseburger balls. Ground beef is rolled with cheddar cheese and bacon, coated in saltine crumbs and browned to golden perfection.

“The first time I served these, my husband and kids thought we were having plain meatballs. Then they cut into the flavorful filling inside!” —Recipe contributor Cathy Lendvoy, Boharm, Saskatchewan

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Turkey Sliders

Most slider recipes are baked, but these turkey sliders are ready as soon as they’re assembled. Just cut them up, arrange them on a serving platter and watch them get gobbled up before the ball even drops.

“Turkey sliders with ginger, horseradish and cranberry sauce refrigerate well, so I keep them ready for a New Year’s Eve finger food.” —Recipe contributor Pamela Miller, Big Rapids, Michigan

Garlic Bread Bites

Would you believe us if we told you these mozzarella garlic bread bites are completely gluten-free? Thank you, almond flour!

“These garlic bread bites are ridiculously easy to make and insanely tasty! To make them extra cheesy, sprinkle the tops with more mozzarella cheese after taking them out of the oven the second time, and then return them to the oven until the cheese is melted. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.” —Recipe contributor Anna Bowden, Littleton, Colorado

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Spanakopita

Spanakopita is great because it can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the freezer until you’re ready to bake. The key to hosting a stress-free New Year’s Eve party is taking advantage of make-ahead recipes, so we recommend adding this appetizer to your menu.

“I love having appetizers on hand in the freezer, especially when the holiday season is fast approaching. This easy spanakopita recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Everyone loves them, they’re easy to prep and they bake up in about 20 minutes. —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta”

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Swiss Potato Puffs

Guests of all ages love cheesy potato bites! They’re perfect by themselves, but if you must serve it with a sauce, let it be a high-quality mustard.

“Encourage guests to mingle by serving this cute little New Year’s Eve finger food. They’re transportable, mess-free and easy to eat in a few bites.” —Recipe contributor Myra Innes, Auburn, Kansas.

Roasted Chicken and Brie Holly Mini Bites Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Roasted Chicken and Brie Holly Mini Bites

This is a fantastic option if you’re serving alcohol at your party, as this heavy appetizer will help to fill your guests’ stomachs. Made with Brie, fig and cranberries, these roasted chicken and cheese bites are as festive as they are filling.

“These scrumptious bites only take about 20 minutes, but taste like you spent hours; you can also make them a few days in advance, then warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving. They’re the perfect New Year’s Eve party appetizer!” —Recipe contributor Terri Gilson, Calgary, Alberta

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Portobello Mushroom and Cream Cheese Taquitos

Gone are the days of standing over the crudite board all night. Vegetarian guests will delight in these cheesy, mushroomy taquitos. Serve them with a chutney dipping sauce to round out the flavors.

“This New Year’s Eve party appetizer was inspired by a dish I saw on an episode of Top Chef. I simplified it a little and tweaked the flavors a bit. The taquitos can be made ahead and reheated in a 250°F oven for 10 minutes.” —Recipe contributor Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

New Year’s Eve Appetizers FAQ

How do you make easy appetizers for New Year’s Eve?

To make easy appetizers for New Year’s Eve, look for recipes with very few ingredients and little to no cooking. Try making creative pigs in a blanket ideas made with premade crescent dough, or whip up slow-cooker dips to create set-it-and-forget-it appetizers. Slider recipes are always a good idea, too, as they only need to be assembled and baked for a few minutes.

For a retro take, look to cheese balls, which only require a mixer and a little time for the cheese to set in the fridge. Don’t forget the crackers!

What are good ideas for elegant New Year’s Eve appetizers?

For a formal New Year’s Eve party, you may want to prepare elegant bites made with seafood or set out intricate charcuterie boards with fancy cheeses. I love making easy puff pastry recipes with store-bought puff pastry because they look fancy but are easy to pull off. The elegant app hero might just be bacon-wrapped scallops, but gougeres (also known as cheese puffs) aren’t far behind.

If you’re on dessert duty: truffles, truffles, truffles. You really can’t go wrong with chocolate desserts, so truffle recipes are the way to go.

What to eat for a New Year’s Eve party?

I like to serve appetizers at a New Year’s Eve party because, at this point in the year, people have already gorged on Thanksgiving dinner, Friendsgiving potlucks and elegant sit-down holiday gatherings. People will be thrilled to snack on finger foods and appetizers as they mingle at your party. Dips, crudites, bacon-wrapped recipes and bite-sized foods on skewers are all great options. Above all, make sure there are different textures and flavors on the table.