Barbecues are all about good food, great company, and enjoying the outdoors. While the grill usually takes center stage, having a few simple appetizers ready keeps guests happy while the main course cooks. The best BBQ apps are easy to make, flavorful, and easy to eat with your hands or a small plate.
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Whether you're feeding a crowd or hosting a small backyard gathering, these appetizers are sure to be a hit. Here are 15 easy BBQ-friendly appetizers that are perfect for any summer cookout.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic party snack and always go quickly at BBQs. They’re creamy, tangy, and easy to eat with your hands. You can keep it simple with mustard and mayo or spice things up with paprika or hot sauce. Make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until guests arrive. They’re a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are fresh, colorful, and full of flavor. Just thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto small skewers or toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness. They look fancy, but take only minutes to put together. This no-cook option is perfect for hot days.
Grilled Veggie Platter
A platter of grilled vegetables will add color and crunch to your BBQ spread. Slice zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, then season and grill until tender.
Serve them with a dipping sauce like hummus or ranch. They’re healthy, flavorful, and can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s a great way to balance out heavier BBQ dishes.
Sliders
Sliders are always a hit because they’re fun to eat and easy to customize. You can use ground beef, pulled pork, chicken, or even veggie patties.
Serve them with small buns, cheese, pickles, and condiments so everyone can build their own. These sandwiches are great for hungry guests while they wait for the grill to heat up. Plus, they’re easy to make in batches.
Cornbread Muffins
Cornbread muffins bring a little sweetness and crunch to your BBQ table. They’re easy to bake ahead and go great with grilled meats and smoky sauces.
For extra flavor, you can add extras like jalapeños or cheddar cheese. Serve warm with butter or honey for a tasty treat. They also pack well for outdoor gatherings.
Fruit Kabobs
For a refreshing bite, try making fruit kabobs. Skewer a mix of fruits like pineapple, strawberries, grapes, and melon for a colorful and healthy snack.
You can chill them in the fridge before serving or drizzle them with a bit of honey or lime juice. These are perfect for kids and adults alike. They add a sweet touch to your appetizer table.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A warm, creamy dip like spinach and artichoke is always welcome. You can make it ahead of time and heat it up in a small baking dish or slow cooker. Serve with chips, pita bread, or sliced baguette. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This one’s perfect for guests who love comfort food.
Watermelon Feta Bites
These little bites are sweet, salty, and super refreshing. Cube some watermelon and top each piece with a small chunk of feta and a mint leaf. Secure with a toothpick for easy serving. This quick, no-cook recipe adds a fancy touch to your BBQ spread. The flavors are light and perfect for warm weather.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Spicy, smoky, and cheesy, jalapeño poppers are BBQ favorites. Slice the jalapeños in half, remove the seeds, and stuff them with cream cheese. Wrap each one in a strip of bacon and bake or grill until crispy. They’re packed with flavor and always disappear quickly. Just be sure to make enough because people always want seconds.
Pasta Salad Cups
Instead of one big bowl, serve pasta salad in individual cups for easy snacking. Use short pasta like rotini and toss it with veggies, cheese, and dressing. The cups make it easy for guests to grab and go. You can make it classic with Italian dressing or try a creamy version. It’s a portable, mess-free way to enjoy a BBQ staple.
Chips and Guacamole
Few things are more satisfying than a bowl of fresh guacamole and a pile of tortilla chips. Make your guac with ripe avocados, lime juice, diced tomato, and a little onion or garlic. It’s a simple, no-cook option that’s always popular. Keep it chilled until serving and refresh it as needed. Guests will keep coming back for more.
Meat and Cheese Skewers
Create quick meat and cheese skewers with cubes of cheddar, salami, pepperoni, or ham. Add extras like olives or cherry tomatoes for more color and flavor. These little bites are easy to prep ahead and offer a low-mess, protein-packed snack. They’re perfect for grazing before the grill is ready. Plus, they look great on a serving tray.
Mini Quesadillas
Cut quesadillas into small triangles and serve them with salsa or sour cream. Use a mix of cheese, beans, and cooked chicken or veggies for the filling. Grill them ahead and keep warm in foil until it’s time to serve. They’re crispy, cheesy, and easy to grab and go. Great for feeding a hungry crowd.
Stuffed Mini Peppers
Mini bell peppers are the perfect size for stuffing with cream cheese, goat cheese, or a savory spread. You can prep them the day before and store them in the fridge until it’s time to eat. They’re crunchy, colorful, and easy to eat in one or two bites. Add herbs or spices to change up the flavors. These are great for guests who want a lighter bite.
Classic Deviled Egg Potato Salad
Combine two favorites into one by mixing creamy potato salad with chopped deviled eggs. It’s rich and tangy, perfect for BBQs. Serve it chilled in small bowls or cups for easy access. The flavors pair perfectly with grilled meats. It’s a hearty side that also works as a starter.
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