Memorial Day gatherings are all about good food, great company, and keeping things simple. These 15 appetizer recipes check every box. They’re easy to prep, full of flavor, and perfect for kicking off your cookout without adding stress to your day.
Whether you’re headed to a backyard BBQ or hosting at home, these bites are made to be shared and enjoyed.
Bite-Sized Caprese Skewers
Bite-Sized Caprese Skewers are a fresh and flavorful appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze, these mini skewers are a perfect addition to any gathering.
Get the Bite-Sized Caprese Skewers recipe.
Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers
What sets Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers apart is their perfect balance of flavors. The bourbon adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness that complements the savory notes of garlic and soy sauce, while a hint of spice rounds out the profile.
Get the Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers recipe.
Chili Cornbread Muffins
Chili Cornbread Muffins combine two comfort food favorites into one delicious, portable bite. These savory muffins are packed with hearty chili flavors, tender cornbread, and just the right amount of toppings.
Get the Chili Cornbread Muffins recipe.
Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers
Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them a must-try for your next cookout. Juicy shrimp and caramelized pineapple are grilled to perfection, creating a smoky, tropical flavor in every bite.
Get the Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers recipe.
Rainbow Fruit Skewers
When it comes to entertaining, a beautifully arranged fruit platter can be a showstopper that adds color and freshness to your table. Imagine a vibrant array of seasonal fruits, artfully arranged on skewers and presented in a dramatic circular display.
Get the Rainbow Fruit Skewer recipe.
S’mores on a Stick
By skewering marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers, you can create an easy-to-eat version of this iconic dessert that’s perfect for parties. Not only do they make for a delightful treat, but they also add a playful element to your dessert table.
Get the Simple S’mores Skewers recipe.
Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs
Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs are a fun and easy way to enjoy the classic dessert in a handheld form. Juicy strawberries, fluffy cake, and sweet whipped cream come together on skewers for a delightful treat.
Get the Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs recipe.
Mini Cheeseburger Cups
If you’re on the hunt for an appetizer that combines the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger with a fun, bite-sized presentation, look no further than Mini Cheeseburger Cups! These delightful morsels are ideal for parties, game days, or family gatherings, and they’re guaranteed to wow your guests with their deliciousness and charming appearance.
Get the Mini Cheeseburger Cup recipe.
Cobb Salad Skewers
Cobb Salad Skewers take everything you love about the classic salad—crispy bacon, juicy turkey, creamy avocado, and hard-boiled eggs—and put it on a stick for the perfect party-friendly appetizer or light meal.
Get the Cobb Salad Skewers recipe.
Honey BBQ Riblets
These Honey BBQ Riblets are a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness. The tender, juicy riblets are coated in a luscious honey barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully as they cook, creating a sticky glaze that’s simply irresistible.
Get the Honey BBQ Riblets recipe.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers
Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers are one of those dishes that always tastes like summer, no matter when you make them. The zesty, garlicky cowboy butter packs so much flavor to this juicy, crave-worthy chicken.
Get the Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewer recipe.
Grilled Street Corn Jalapeno Poppers
The combination of flavors in Grilled Street Corn Jalapeño Poppers is nothing short of magical. The heat from the jalapeños is perfectly balanced by the creamy filling, which is inspired by the traditional toppings of street corn—think cotija cheese, lime, and cilantro.
Get the Street Corn Jalapeno Popper recipe.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Few combinations are as crave-worthy as chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch—and when you pack them into a slider, you get the perfect bite-sized sandwich. Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are a guaranteed hit for game days, parties, or an easy weeknight meal.
Get the Chicken Bacon Ranch Slider recipe.
Mini Meatball Subs
Mini Meatball Subs are the perfect bite-sized twist on a classic comfort food! These irresistible little sandwiches are packed with juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melty cheese, all nestled in soft, toasty buns.
Get the Mini Meatball Subs recipe.
Southwestern Pinwheels Appetizer
Southwestern Pinwheels are vibrant, bite-sized finger food packed with bold flavors and colorful ingredients. Loaded with smoky spices, creamy cheeses, and fresh ingredients like avocado, black beans, and jalapeños, these pinwheels are perfect for parties, game days, or anytime snacking.
Get the Southwestern Pinwheel recipe.
Angela’s passion for discovering and experimenting with new flavors and recipes is at the heart of her culinary philosophy. Residing in a quaint Oregon town, she finds joy and inspiration in her kitchen. Angela has a lot of expertise in cooking and she eagerly shares her discoveries and unique creations with you.