15 Party-Ready Appetizers For New Year’s Eve

Did you know that nearly 80 million people in the U.S. celebrate New Year’s Eve with a party? If you want to be the life of the celebration, our blog post on 15 Party-Ready Appetizers for New Year’s Eve is just what you need! Get ready to delight your guests with a variety of tantalizing bites, from glazed bacon-wrapped dates to a zesty bruschetta bar, ensuring your festivities are memorable and delicious!

Sparkling Savory Bites

This Sparkling Savory Bites recipe is special for its delightful combination of crunchy textures and vibrant flavors that make it an irresistible appetizer for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup sparkling water
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like dill or parsley), chopped
• ½ cup finely chopped vegetables (like bell peppers or green onions)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated cheese, flour, softened butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until crumbly.

3. Gradually add the sparkling water to the mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms.

4. Fold in the fresh herbs and chopped vegetables until evenly distributed.

5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, experiment with different cheeses or add spices like paprika or red pepper flakes.
• These bites can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli for an extra treat.

Midnight Mashed Potato Bites

These Midnight Mashed Potato Bites are special for their creamy texture and rich flavors, making them the perfect late-night snack that satisfies cravings with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and egg, mixing until well incorporated.

2. Shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.

4. Carefully place the potato balls into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

5. Remove the bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

6. Serve warm and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

Tips:

• For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits to the mixture.
• If you prefer baking, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the bites on a greased baking sheet for about 20 minutes, or until golden.
• These bites can be made ahead of time and frozen; just cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Festive Stuffed Mushrooms

These Festive Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful blend of savory flavors and creamy textures, perfect for any holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

• 24 large cremini mushrooms
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Clean the mushrooms and carefully remove the stems, setting them aside.

3. Finely chop the mushroom stems and sauté them in olive oil in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes.

4. In a bowl, mix the sautéed mushroom stems, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

5. Stuff each mushroom cap generously with the cream cheese mixture.

6. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

7. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

• You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to use it.
• For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the stuffing mixture.
• Experiment with different herbs such as basil or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.

Champagne Infused Shrimp Cocktail

This Champagne Infused Shrimp Cocktail elevates the classic appetizer with a sparkling twist, combining fresh shrimp with zesty flavors and effervescent champagne.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup champagne or sparkling wine
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, then add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are pink and opaque.

2. Drain the shrimp and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes, then drain again.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the champagne, lemon juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the cocktail sauce.

4. Toss the cooled shrimp in the cocktail sauce until well coated.

5. Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.

Tips:

• Choose a high-quality champagne for the best flavor impact.
• For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preference.
• Chill the shrimp cocktail in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal freshness.

Cheese and Charcuterie Extravaganza

This Cheese and Charcuterie Extravaganza brings together a delightful array of flavors, textures, and colors that are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz assorted cheeses (cheddar, brie, gouda)
• 6 oz assorted cured meats (salami, prosciutto, chorizo)
• 1 cup assorted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• 1 cup fresh fruits (grapes, figs, apple slices)
• 1/2 cup olives (green and black)
• 1/2 cup pickles or gherkins
• 1 cup crackers or breadsticks
• 1/4 cup honey or fig jam
• 1 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme) for garnish

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Instructions:

1. Select a large serving board or platter to arrange your ingredients.

2. Start by placing the assorted cheeses on the board, spacing them out for visual appeal.

3. Add the cured meats around the cheeses, folding or rolling them for texture.

4. Scatter the nuts and fresh fruits around the board, filling any gaps.

5. Incorporate the olives and pickles in small bowls or directly on the board.

6. Arrange the crackers or breadsticks along the edge of the board.

7. Drizzle honey or add fig jam in a small bowl for dipping.

8. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips:

• Choose cheeses of varying textures and flavors to create contrast.
• Include seasonal fruits for freshness and variety.
• Pair with your favorite wines for an enhanced tasting experience.
• Consider dietary preferences by providing vegetarian options among the meats and cheese.

Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Dates

These Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Dates combine the sweet richness of dates with the savory crunch of bacon, making them an irresistible party appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 20 Medjool dates
• 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make a small slit in each date and remove the pit.

3. Stuff each date with a half slice of bacon, wrapping the bacon tightly around the date.

4. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and garlic powder.

5. Brush the glaze over each bacon-wrapped date and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.

Tips:

• For an extra kick, add a sliver of jalapeño inside each date before wrapping with bacon.
• Feel free to experiment with other types of bacon, such as maple or peppered, for varied flavor profiles.
• These can be made ahead of time; simply reheat in the oven before serving.

Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists

These Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Twists are a delightful blend of flaky pastry, savory spinach, and creamy feta, making them a perfect appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 package puff pastry sheets
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, then add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

3. In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well.

4. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into rectangles.

5. Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta mixture on one half of each rectangle, then fold the other half over and seal the edges.

6. Cut each sealed rectangle into strips and twist them gently before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Brush the tops of the twists with the beaten egg to give them a golden shine while baking.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Tips:

• For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like dill or oregano.
• Serve with a yogurt dip or tzatziki for an extra layer of taste.
• Feel free to use frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.

Mini Quiches for a Crowd

This recipe for Mini Quiches for a Crowd is special because it combines creamy eggs with a variety of savory fillings, making it perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
• 24 mini pastry shells or phyllo cups

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with olive oil.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined.

3. Stir in the cheese, ham, spinach, bell peppers, and onions until evenly mixed.

4. Place the mini pastry shells or phyllo cups into each slot of the prepared muffin tin.

5. Carefully pour the egg mixture into each pastry shell, filling just below the rim.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the quiches are puffed and golden brown.

7. Let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin.

8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences; mushrooms, broccoli, or cooked bacon work great too.
• To save time, you can prepare the egg mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• These mini quiches can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.

Zesty Bruschetta Bar

This Zesty Bruschetta Bar offers a delightful mix of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for entertaining or a simple appetizer at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf Italian ciabatta bread
• 2 cups diced ripe tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Slice the ciabatta bread into 1/2 inch thick pieces and place on a baking sheet.

3. Brush each slice with olive oil and bake for about 5-7 minutes until lightly toasted.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper; mix well.

5. Remove toasted bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.

6. Spread a layer of ricotta cheese on each toasted slice, followed by a generous spoonful of the tomato mixture.

7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.

Tips:

• For added flavor, drizzle a little extra balsamic vinegar over the top before serving.
• Feel free to customize the toppings with other ingredients like olives, roasted peppers, or arugula.
• Prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time to allow the flavors to marry before serving.

Crispy Coconut Chicken Bites

These Crispy Coconut Chicken Bites combine succulent chicken with the rich flavors of coconut and a crunchy coating, making them a delightful snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.

2. In a shallow dish, mix the flour, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.

3. In another bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.

4. In a third dish, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.

5. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the coconut and panko mixture.

6. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

7. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken bites in batches, cooking them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

8. Remove the chicken bites from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

9. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips:

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in coconut milk for 30 minutes before breading.
• Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be around 350°F for best frying results.
• Serve with sweet chili sauce or a tangy mango dip for an extra flavor kick.

Elegant Goat Cheese Truffles

These Elegant Goat Cheese Truffles are a delightful blend of creamy goat cheese, fresh herbs, and savory nuts, creating a perfect bite for entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz goat cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup crushed walnuts
• 1/2 cup crushed pecans

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chives, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth.

2. Using your hands, form the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

3. Roll each truffle in crushed walnuts or pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. Place the truffles on a serving plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to firm up.

5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Tips:

• For added flavor, experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme.
• Make ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Consider serving with a selection of crackers or bread to complement the truffles.

Sweet and Spicy Meatballs

This Sweet and Spicy Meatballs recipe is a delightful blend of savory meat and a tangy sauce, making it a perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to create the sauce.

5. Pour half of the sauce over the meatballs and bake for 15 minutes.

6. After 15 minutes, remove the meatballs, brush them with the remaining sauce, and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

7. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve warm.

Tips:

• For extra heat, add more sriracha or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
• These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen; simply cook from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
• Pair the meatballs with rice or noodles to make it a complete meal.

Deconstructed Sushi Rolls

Deconstructed Sushi Rolls take the vibrant flavors of traditional sushi and present them in a fresh and fun way, allowing you to savor every bite of deliciousness created from fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sushi rice
• 1 ¼ cups water
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup carrots, julienned
• ½ cup avocado, sliced
• ½ cup cooked shrimp or crab meat
• 2 sheets nori, cut into strips
• soy sauce for dipping
• wasabi for serving (optional)
• pickled ginger for serving (optional)

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions:

1. Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.

2. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.

3. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved, then gently fold the mixture into the warm rice.

5. To assemble the deconstructed sushi rolls, place a portion of seasoned rice on a plate and top with diced cucumber, julienned carrots, avocado slices, and shrimp or crab meat.

6. Garnish with nori strips and serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger on the side.

Tips:

• Experiment with additional fillings like cream cheese or scallions to customize your rolls.
• Make sure to let the rice cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
• If you’re not a fan of seafood, feel free to substitute with tofu or other protein options.

Classic Spanakopita Triangles

These Classic Spanakopita Triangles are special for their flaky layers of phyllo dough filled with a savory blend of spinach, feta, and herbs that create a delightful taste explosion in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, feta cheese, ricotta cheese, dill, onion, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the filling.

3. Take one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it lightly with olive oil. Place another sheet on top and brush it with oil again.

4. Cut the layered phyllo dough into strips about 3 inches wide.

5. Place a tablespoon of filling at one end of each strip and fold the dough over to form a triangle. Continue folding the triangle up the strip until you reach the end, brushing with oil as needed to seal.

6. Place the finished triangles on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with more olive oil.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Tips:

• Work quickly with phyllo dough to prevent it from drying out. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth.
• You can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• For extra flavor, add some grated nutmeg to the spinach filling.

Roasted Vegetable and Hummus Platter

This Roasted Vegetable and Hummus Platter is a vibrant medley of flavors that brings together sweet, savory, and earthy tones for a delightful appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup hummus
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and carrots.

3. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables, and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.

4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.

5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

7. Arrange the roasted vegetables on a platter and serve with a bowl of hummus in the center. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference and seasonal availability.
• For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the roasted vegetables just before serving.
• This platter can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.