Pre-dinner bites shouldn’t taste like warm-ups, and these appetizers refuse to play it safe. We pulled together 19 recipes that kick off the meal with real attitude, big seasoning, and flavors that demand attention before the main even shows up. We lean on easy prep, strong textures, and ingredients built to get people circling back for another bite. These appetizers don’t just start the night—they set the bar high.
Easy Chorizo Cheese Dip
Chorizo renders down spicy and crisp before the cheese melts smooth. The skillet keeps heat steady so the dip stays pourable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chorizo Cheese Dip
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Hot grill marks crisp the bacon while the asparagus stays tender. We keep the spears spaced so everything cooks evenly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
The air fryer creates crisp skin while the garlic-parm coating sticks tight. The fast cook keeps the wings juicy inside.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
Bagna Cauda
Warm oil and garlic simmer gently for a rich, savory dip. The low heat protects the flavor and keeps the texture silky.
Get the Recipe: Bagna Cauda
Clams Casino
Broiling browns the topping while the clams stay tender underneath. The method adds smoky edges without overcooking the shellfish.
Get the Recipe: Clams Casino
Air Fryer Pickle Brined Chicken Wings
Brining keeps the wings juicy before the air fryer crisps the skin. We rely on strong airflow for even browning.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pickle Brined Chicken Wings
Smoked Brie
Low smoke softens the brie into a warm, gooey center. The rind holds shape, making it easy to serve straight from the grill.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brie
Smoked Chicken Wings
Steady smoke tightens the skin and keeps the meat juicy. A short burst of heat at the end adds crisp bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Wings
Four Cheese Hot Lobster Dip
Lobster warms through gently as the cheeses melt into a smooth base. Oven heat keeps the mixture bubbling without breaking.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Hot Lobster Dip
Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon renders slowly, wrapping the scallops in smoky, crisp edges. Controlled heat keeps the seafood tender, not rubbery.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites
The air fryer locks in crisp coating while keeping the chicken moist. The quick toss in sauce adds heat without softening the crust.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
High grill heat gives the shrimp a clean char and firm snap. We flip fast to keep them from overcooking.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Sriracha Honey Sticky Wings
The glaze reduces sticky and hot while the wings stay tender. Broiling at the end sharpens the caramelized edges.
Get the Recipe: Sriracha Honey Sticky Wings
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Bacon crisps around the jalapeños while the filling melts smooth. The hot grill keeps everything tight and easy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Crispy Fritto Misto with Lemon Dill Tartar Sauce
A quick fry gives the seafood a light, crisp shell. The high heat keeps the interior tender and clean-tasting.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fritto Misto with Lemon Dill Tartar Sauce
Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Dry seasoning clings to the wings as the skin crisps evenly. The hot cook keeps moisture locked in for a firm, juicy bite.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Bloody Mary Shrimp Cocktail
Cold-poached shrimp stay firm while the Bloody Mary sauce adds sharp heat. We chill the shrimp fast to keep the texture tight.
Get the Recipe: Bloody Mary Shrimp Cocktail
Sriracha and Bourbon Chicken Wings
High heat caramelizes the bourbon glaze while keeping the wings juicy. The spice stays bold thanks to a quick, hot finish.
Get the Recipe: Sriracha and Bourbon Chicken Wings
Chicken Piccata Meatballs
A fast sear forms a firm crust before the lemon sauce brightens the meatballs. The pan keeps moisture sealed in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata Meatballs
