Schedules can fill up fast on Christmas Eve, so 19 make-ahead appetizers are a smart backup plan. No one wants to be stressed while guests arrive, and having choices that chill, reheat, or serve up cold helps. Everyone gets to choose what they like best while mingling and relaxing. Appetizers that work every way keep the holiday easy.
Crispy Party Crostini
Lively holiday gatherings call for this Crispy Party Crostini at the snack table. Crunch and flavor meet with every bite, encouraging return visits to the platter. People often reach for just one more, unsure which topping will be their favorite. Simple to serve, this appetizer brings style and ease to celebrations, no oven stress needed.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Party Crostini
Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites
Guests stop and stare when presented with these Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites. Bright color and melty texture invite curiosity, while a hint of tartness balances it all out. These tiny morsels belong at any holiday spread where conversation flows freely. Their irresistible combination of sweet and creamy always leaves the plate empty.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites
Creamy Hummus
There’s something so inviting about this Creamy Hummus on a chilly evening. Dippers disappear fast while the smooth dip brings warmth to any snack tray. The gentle flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, whether part of a veggie board or paired with crackers. Offering a comforting texture, this spread never fails to draw folks in one scoop at a time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Hummus
Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Bold guests love the excitement of these Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers. Each popper packs a gentle punch, bringing a thrill to the finger food lineup. Smoky and spicy team up for a classic bite that stands out at any Christmas Eve gathering. Friends keep an eye on the tray, knowing these never last long.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Holiday classics always shine, and this Classic Shrimp Cocktail is proof that simple works wonders. Chilled shrimp with a punchy dip fits right into festive traditions, bringing a splash of retro flair. A crisp bite keeps things refreshing between heavier dishes. Arranged with care, these shrimp become a centerpiece everyone circles back to.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites
Freshness takes the spotlight with this Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites plate. Juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and bright basil unite for a holiday appetizer that feels light yet festive. These bites are easy to grab and pop in your mouth, making them perfect for mingling. Colorful and inviting, they bring cheer to every holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites
Elegant Crostini Appetizers
If you’re looking for a hint of sophistication, these Elegant Crostini Appetizers bring it with ease. Brushed with flavor and topped with festive flair, every slice is a little package of crunch. These bites don’t require much fuss yet never fail to impress. Guests love sampling each version, returning for a second taste of what’s new.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Crostini Appetizers
Cheesy Potato Casserole
Comfort food has its moment with this Cheesy Potato Casserole as an appetizer option. Golden edges and creamy centers get everyone leaning closer for a helping. Warm casseroles hint at family memories and togetherness as laughter fills the room. Sharing this dish is almost as comforting as the flavor itself.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Smoked Mackerel Pate
Unique holiday spreads often include this Smoked Mackerel Pate for a taste you don’t find everywhere. Silky and smoky, it brings an adventurous option to the table. The spread pairs well with crusty bread or crackers, winning over even the curious skeptics. A little scoop is all it takes to spark conversations among appetizer fans.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate
Colorful Antipasto Skewers
Bright veggies and savory accents make these Colorful Antipasto Skewers a conversation starter. Each skewer is a mini adventure, offering something new in every bite. They fit easily on snack plates without any fuss, keeping the party moving along. Everyone finds at least one piece they want to take right away.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Skewers
Warm and Gooey Baked Brie
Holiday tables feel a little warmer when this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie arrives. The inviting aroma hints that comfort waits beneath the golden crust. As the cheese flows, excitement grows around the platter. One taste is all it takes for guests to come back, hoping for a repeat performance.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie
Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels
Appetizer trays reach new heights with these Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels. Each roll reveals eye-catching spirals loaded with familiar flavors and fun layers. They’re easy to pick up, which means guests never need to pause their conversations for a bite. Spirals disappear fast, so you might want to keep an extra tray nearby.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Crowd energy ramps up when this Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes hits the buffet. Edges snap with flavor while the center keeps things cozy. These small, crispy bites carry the aroma of comfort and familiarity but feel exciting enough for a holiday treat. Sharing these potatoes quickly becomes a highlight of the night.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Conversations turn to smiles as this Crispy Smashed Potatoes fills up the party platter. Snap and crunch mingle with soft interiors, creating a contrast that keeps guests curious. Each bite carries that homey, simply made feeling that people crave during Christmas celebrations. Sharing a plate means no one ever feels left out.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Savory Roast Beef Sliders
A platter of this Savory Roast Beef Sliders instantly makes the room buzz with excitement. Warm, hearty bites packed between rolls always win over a holiday crowd. They’re great for holding with one hand while catching up with old friends. After just one, everyone wonders how something so simple can taste so festive.
Get the Recipe: Savory Roast Beef Sliders
Cheesy Rotel Dip
Melty, crowd-pleasing fun happens with this Cheesy Rotel Dip in the mix. The bubbling surface draws eyes, while chips stand at the ready nearby. Once someone gets a taste, questions fly about how many batches you made. There’s a reason partygoers hope the bowl stays full all evening.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rotel Dip
Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
Vibrant color and a tickle of heat set this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip apart. It pairs sweetness with a gentle kick, making each bite surprising and new. Even those who don’t usually stray from tradition reach for a sample. Holiday stories start flowing once this dip makes its way around the group.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip
Crunchy Celery Salad
Holiday spreads benefit from a fresh counterbalance like this Crunchy Celery Salad. Each forkful delivers a lively crunch, setting it apart from the richer dishes nearby. Light and bright, it refreshes the palate and keeps everyone coming back for more greens. This dish lets you enjoy the holidays with something crisp between all the cozy bites.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad
Million Dollar Deviled Eggs
The appetizer table shines when this Million Dollar Deviled Eggs make an appearance. Smooth filling and a hint of special flavor catch guests off guard in the best way. It’s hard to take just one, since every bite feels both familiar and upgraded. Deviled eggs have always been a holiday favorite for a reason, but these make the moment extra memorable.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Deviled Eggs
