79 Housewarming Party Food Ideas You’ll Definitely Want to Serve

Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket

For New Year’s, I used to make beef and cheddar pigs in a blanket, but now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration. —Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin

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Mini Cheese Balls

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. —J. Spivey, Ennice, North Carolina

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Chipotle Berry Fruit Salsa

Not too hot, but with a bit of a kick, this salsa is a perfect topping for grilled fish or chicken. It’s also a delectable chip dip—just double the recipe and watch it disappear. The spice is quite mild, but cut down on (or increase!) the chipotle peppers to suit your taste. If you like, add lime zest for an added twist. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

Almond-Pecan Date Truffles

My daughter and I came across a date candy recipe when she was learning about ancient Egypt. We changed some of the spices and nuts to suit our taste. My dad was a beekeeper and Mom always made a coconut date ball for Christmas. The truffles remind me of past Christmases and are ideal for something quick yet festive on a holiday tray. —Lori Daniels, Beverly, West Virginia

Mango Bellini

Simple yet delicious, this mango Bellini is made with fresh mango puree and your favorite sparkling wine—I usually choose Prosecco for mine. You can easily turn it into a mocktail by using sparkling water in place of the champagne or Prosecco. —Ellen Folkman, Crystal Beach, Florida

Air-Fryer Ham and Brie Pastries

Fancy appetizers don’t have to be difficult. In fact, this recipe proves it’s easy to make something impressive. You can prep these pastries ahead of time and pop them into the air fryer just as your guests arrive. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California

Whipped Feta Dip

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

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Classic Margarita

A classic margarita recipe doesn’t need anything other than tequila, Triple Sec and fresh lime juice. When you’re making the cocktail, make sure you squeeze the limes correctly for the ultimate freshness. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

Skewered Ravioli with Creamy Tomato Dipping Sauce

I wanted to make an easy appetizer with my favorite pasta, cheese ravioli, but didn't want the mess of frying. I used pesto and bread crumbs for a crust, and broiled them for a little crunch. —Rebecca, Guffey, Apex, North Carolina

Banana Cream Chocolate Truffles

This truffle recipe was created from ripe bananas and my imagination, and the outcome blew my family and friends away! I don’t particularly like bananas, but I could eat these truffles all day long. —Michele Lassuy, Orlando, Florida

Summertime Tea

You can’t have a summer gathering around here without this sweet tea to cool you down. It’s wonderful for sipping while basking by the pool. —Angela Lively, Baxter, Tennessee

Thyme and Fig Goat Cheese Spread

When I started growing herbs in my garden it took me a while to find a good way to use thyme, but this easy appetizer spread lets it shine. I usually garnish it with a sprig of thyme, slivered almonds and chopped figs. —Laura Cox, Columbia, Missouri

Bourbon Meatballs

Kick-start your meatballs with a splash of bourbon and vinegar for punchy sweet-and-sour flavor. These Kentucky Derby bourbon meatballs are perfect to snack on while you watch the race. —Kimla Carsten, Grand Junction, Colorado

Paloma

Soon after I learned about this cocktail, I brought the ingredients to a family dinner at my parents'. The next time we got together, my dad had the fixings set out and ready to go. —Ian Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Crudite Dip

To bring out the crudite dip’s tangy flavor, chill it before serving. This will allow the flavors time to blend. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Cinnamon-Spice Brownies

Gail Mehle of Rock Springs, Wyoming submitted the original recipe for these brownies with a secret ingredient: cinnamon. The spicy chocolate cinnamon cane sugar was a perfect fit for her recipe, adding just a hint of heat. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This is my take on California Pizza Kitchen’s Hot Spinach Dip. I added artichoke hearts for extra flavor & texture plus Hatch chilis for a kick.I always use a flavored salt (in this case Celery) for more flavor.

Greek Shrimp Canapes

I grew up by the ocean and then moved to a landlocked state. I wanted to show people in my area how to easily cook seafood, and this is the recipe I came up with. I think it’s safe to say it has become a neighborhood favorite. —Amy Harris, Springville, Utah

Powered-Up Molasses Cookies

These tender cookies are so soft and flavorful. You'd never guess they're also lower in fat! —Jean Ecos, Hartland, Wisconsin

Easy Irish Cream

Stir up this fast and easy recipe for a potluck brunch. There’s plenty of coffee flavor in every cozy cup.—Anna Hansen, Park City, Utah

Chipotle Mexican Street Corn Dip with Goat Cheese

I was craving Mexican street corn that I had during a recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, so I came up with this fabulous dip. It blends the traditional profile of the popular street food with updated flavors for a tasty twist. —Joseph A Sciascia, San Mateo, California

Bacon-Wrapped Avocado Wedges

We all know that almost everything is improved with bacon—and avocado is no exception. Since it’s made in an air fryer, this appetizer is one to remember. It will definitely impress your friends! —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

Sage & Prosciutto Pinwheels

I love, love, love to make appetizers and I especially like this recipe because I can make the rolls ahead, freeze them, and then slice and bake when needed. —Kate Dampier, Quail Valley, California

Spiced White Sangria

I've been making this recipe for more than 20 years. My husband and I are in the wine and spirits business and we served it at one of our first dinner parties after we were married. It's a refreshing change from traditional red sangria. —Ellen Folkman, Crystal Beach, Florida

Mini Beef Tourtieres

Here's a twist on the traditional tourtiere recipe. Ground beef replaces pork, and cream cheese pastry takes the place of pie pastry. The filled mini cups make a melt-in-your-mouth addition to a buffet. —Cheryl Bruneau, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Mini Blueberry Tarts

I served this recipe to my family while we were on vacation and they were all amazed! The best part: I didn't spend tons of time on it thanks to refrigerated pie crust. Watch your mini tarts around the 13-minute mark to make sure they don't brown too quickly. If you'd like, sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.—Allison Bell, Hillsdale, New Jersey

Smoked Pimiento Cheese Crostini

Pimiento cheese has long been a favorite in our family, so these bite-sized appetizers are a treat! I add Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce to give them a little kick. Caramelized onions create another layer of flavor. You can make the cheese and onions three to five days in advance; they store well. If you need to save time, you can use premade jalapeno pimiento cheese. —Caitlyn Bunch, Trenton, Georgia

Portobello Mushroom and Cream Cheese Taquitos

This 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° oven for 10 minutes. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia

Pumpkin Spice White Russian

This pumpkin spice White Russian is a quick and easy twist on the classic drink. The pumpkin mixes well with vodka and Kahlua. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

Coffee Lover's Mini Cheesecakes

Everyone in my family knows how much I adore cheesecake. Anyone who wants one made comes to me because they know I have a lot of tried and tested recipes. But I was getting bored with the standard chocolate or cherry. And then I had an idea—mocha cheesecake! After lots of experiments, I came up with this recipe. It's really good, even if I do say so myself. —Holly Sharp, Warren, Ontario

Roasted Chicken and Brie Holly Mini Bites

I got the idea for these appetizers from my favorite sandwich at a local restaurant—a symphony of sweet fig, roasted apple, melted brie and tangy garlic mayonnaise. I re-created this delectable combination in a quick appetizer with bright red cranberries and green spinach to give it a holiday twist. 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 party appetizer! —Terri Gilson, Calgary, Alberta

Chilean Monkey Tail Punch

Stories vary surrounding the origins of this punch’s unique name. Some say it was initially served in a bottle depicting a monkey with a long tail, but others suggest it was named after a funny incident with a Chilean president in the early 1900s. Whatever the origin, coffee and spirits will make this sweet chilled drink warm you right up this Christmas. It also goes by “cola de mono.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Hawaiian Kielbasa

Salty, savory sausage teams up with juicy, tangy pineapple for a winning combination that you can prep in a flash. The sweet barbecue-style sauce is a tasty way to tie them together.

Dill Pickle Dip

My love for pickles led me to create this Dill Pickle Dip. It’s so easy to whip together. But be warned, it’s addicting! —April Anderson, Forest Lake, Minnesota

Healthy Greek Bean Dip

This crowd-pleasing appetizer is healthy to boot! Folks will love to eat their veggies when they can dip them in this zesty, fresh alternative to hummus. —Kelly Silvers, Edmond, Oklahoma

Sweet Pea Pesto

I made a healthier spin on pea pesto by subbing in vegetable broth for some of the oil and going easy on the cheese. For use on pasta, add more broth for a saucelike consistency. —Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas

Mixed Nut Clusters

Serve these little candies with hot chocolate to keep everyone happy and warm. They also make standout gifts—box them up with each cluster in its own foil or paper candy cup. —Ida Tuey, South Lyon, Michigan

Houlihan’s Copycat Shrooms

I enjoyed this appetizer at Houlihan’s restaurant, and had them every time I went. When the restaurant closed in my area, I was determined to recreate it at home. These might even be better than theirs! Besides baking them, I have also cooked via a grill or toaster oven set on Broil. Consistently delicious, and enjoyed by everyone that has tried them.—Jo Hart, Flippin, Arkansas

Shrimp in Phyllo Cups

I almost didn’t make these appetizers for last year’s Christmas party because I was running out of time, but I knew they’d be a tasty hit. Simple to make, the cups have few ingredients and look beautiful on the plate—very gourmet! This turned out to be one of the night’s favorites, and they just flew off the plate. —Terri Edmunds, Naperville, Illinois

Flourless Peanut Butter Thumbprints

I had been searching for a dessert to make for my brother's girlfriend (who is gluten intolerant), and I came across a naturally gluten-free dessert—a flourless peanut butter cookie. After tweaking the recipe a bit and adding Nutella and a sprinkling of sea salt, I finally found the perfect cookie for her. —Dana Hinck, Pensacola, Florida

Minty Pineapple Rum

This delicious drink is a fabulous way to use fresh mint and celebrate summer. If the pineapple isn't overly ripe, add a bit more sugar. Save any leftover pineapple-mint syrup in an airtight glass container, or freeze the mixture in ice cube trays to use later. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Tomato-Goat Cheese Spread

A good friend shared this recipe with me. It is super easy and so delicious. Guests will love it! It's best served with crackers that aren't strongly seasoned. —Linda Alexander, Madison, Wisconsin

Fig and Goat Cheese Air-Fried Meatballs

Around the holidays, saucy cocktail meatballs are always the first appetizer from the buffet to be eaten. In this dish, the sweet flavor of the fig glaze goes perfectly with the pork and tangy goat cheese. —Kim Banick, Turner, Oregon

Air-Fryer Sausage Bacon Bites

Try surprising your family one Sunday morning by pulling these out of the air fryer as they head to breakfast and get ready for oohs and aahs. They’re equally delicious as a party appetizer. —Pat Waymire, Yellow Springs, Ohio

Peanut Pretzel Toffee Bark

My toffee has been a traditional must-make treat for my family and friends for over 40 years. My Dad taught me to make great fudge from scratch but my toffee was his favorite candy and each time I make it, I think of him. —Barbara Estabrook, Rhinelander, Wisconsin

Roasted Brussels Sprouts & 3-Cheese Crostini

Brussels sprouts for a snack? Oh, yes. Combine these roasted goodies with cheese for the ultimate toast topper. —Athena Russell, Greenville, South Carolina

Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread

We love hazelnut flavor and cookies that aren’t too sweet, so this recipe is perfect for us! If you like your cookies on the sweeter side, bake up these crisp beauties and slather some Nutella between two to create an extra-special sandwich cookie. —Karla Johnson, East Helena, Montana

Finnish Mulled Wine

I found this recipe stuck in the pages of my Finnish grandmother’s Bible. It takes 24 hours to make. Store tightly bottled in the fridge for up to two weeks. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida

Nana Reba’s Potato Knishes

I grew up eating these potato knishes every holiday. My grandmother had to show up with at least four dozen because they were devoured within minutes! I haven’t changed her recipe other than to use ready-made pie crusts. You can use cooked ground beef or lamb as well. —Ellie Brandon, Tucson, Arizona

Artichoke Spread with Garlic Bread

I've tried several different artichoke dip recipes, but this one is the absolute best! I serve it at nearly every family gathering and there are never any leftovers. This is probably my most-requested recipe. —Heidi Iacovetto, Phippsburg, Colorado

Mushroom and Smoked Gouda Puff

It's so very easy, but it looks and tastes gourmet. Dinner party guests will be impressed with this perfect starter course. Serve with a spicy mustard for dipping if desired. —Christina Singer, Bellefontaine, Ohio

Jellied Champagne Dessert

This refreshing dessert looks just like a glass of bubbling champagne.—Vickie McLaughlin, Kingsport, Tennessee

Baked Figs

Here’s a nice change from the traditional savory offerings. To keep the flavorful figs warm during your party, serve them in a chafing dish.— Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri

Pear & Ginger Sparkler

I created this twist on a Bellini when a friend gave me some Asian pears she grew in her backyard. If you like ginger and want more of a kick, try substituting ginger liqueur for the vodka. —Jacyn Siebert, San Francisco, California

Arugula Pizza

This arugula pizza is great served as an appetizer for get-togethers with family or friends. My girlfriends and I love it because it has that sophisticated gourmet touch, and it's healthy, too! This also serves four as a main course. —Annette Riva, Naperville, Illinois

Lemon Curd Cheesecake

This creamy lemon cheesecake has a lovely soft texture and cuts nicely. The curd adds a fresh, tangy flavor. —Becky West, Statesboro, Georgia

Coconut Chicken and Shrimp

I was looking for a fun, easy weeknight dinner based on our favorite shrimp dish that was healthier than fast food. This has become a favorite! —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New York

Wonton Ravioli

I created this recipe as a quick yet elegant meal. But it works well as an appetizer, too. You can substitute ingredients to your liking.—Jenny Johnson, White Bear Lake, Minnesota

Mixed Berry Sangria

This is a light, tasty beverage to serve with spoons so everyone can enjoy the fresh berries once the sangria is gone. — Linda Cifuentes, Mahomet, Illinois

Caprese Salad Kabobs

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. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California

Spanakopita Pinwheels

I'm enthralled with spanakopita, and this spinach and feta pinwheel recipe was a quick and easy way to enjoy the pie. I have used it for get-togethers and family events with great success. —Ryan Palmer, Windham, Maine

Roasted Grape Crostini

A trip to Spain introduced me to its culinary treasures, like Manchego cheese and sherry. This appetizer always impresses folks who’ve never tasted roasted grapes. They're amazing. —Janice Elder, Charlotte, North Carolina

Chocolate Mocha Dusted Almonds

I love to make recipes with nuts. These are chocolaty with a hint of coffee—elegant and addictive! I give them away as gifts; I’ve even made them for wedding favors. —Annette Scholz, Medaryville, Indiana

Pesto Twists

Use pesto made straight from your garden if you make these in the summer or purchase it prepared from the grocery store to fill these easy appetizers. —Jaye Beeler, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Oreo Rice Krispies Treats

These Oreo Rice Krispies Treats are chewy on the inside with a crispy, crunchy cookie top. Not only are they tasty, but the crumbled cookies make for a sweet presentation. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Festive Turkey Meatballs

Turkey gives a different twist to these slightly sweet and spicy meatballs. For the holidays, I serve them on a tray lined with parsley and garnished with red pepper or pimientos. —Audrey Thibodeau, Gilbert, Arizona

Mimosa Butter Cookies

You can add many different flavors to butter cookies to make them your own. Try an alternate type of citrus zest, or add an alternate liquid to change things up. —Sara Lark, Raton, New Mexico

Savory Potato Skins

For a simple hot snack that really hits the spot on a cool fall evening, put together a plate of these crisp potato skins. —Andrea Holcomb, Torrington, Connecticut

Chicken Salad Caprese

This unique, flavorful salad and bread combo will get rave reviews—guaranteed. —Frances Pietsch, Flower Mound, Texas

Baked Spinach Dip Loaf

Any round loaf works as a serving bowl for this cream-cheesy dip, with spinach, cheddar, water chestnuts and, yes, bacon. Scoop the dip with the extra bread and veggies—then eat the bowl! —Frieda Meding, Trochu, Alberta

Mulled Wine

This mulled wine is soothing and satisfying with a delightful blend of spices warmed to perfection. Refrigerating the wine mixture overnight allows the flavors to blend, so don't omit this essential step. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Zippy Curry Dip

Everyone eats their vegetables when this creamy dip is served alongside them. The curry flavor gets stronger the longer the dip stands, so I like to make it in advance. —Priscilla Steffke, Wausau, Wisconsin