Looking for the perfect grill-side starters that will impress your friends and family? Check out these 27+ BBQ appetizers that are sure to get the party fired up! From smoky bites to tangy dips, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while waiting for that main course to sizzle. Let’s get cooking!
Stuffed Mushrooms with BBQ Sausage Filling
Stuffed mushrooms are a classic appetizer that never disappoints. These little bites are packed with flavor and are perfect for any gathering. The image shows a tray of mushrooms, each filled with a savory BBQ sausage mixture, topped with a rich sauce and garnished with fresh herbs.
To make these delicious treats, you’ll need some fresh mushrooms, BBQ sausage, cream cheese, and your favorite seasonings. Start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing the stems. Then, mix the sausage with cream cheese and spices to create a tasty filling.
Once filled, bake them until golden and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sampling one before serving. These stuffed mushrooms are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or party!
Mini BBQ Meatballs with Tangy Sauce
Mini BBQ meatballs are a fantastic choice for any gathering. They are bite-sized, packed with flavor, and perfect for dipping. The image shows a tempting platter of these meatballs, glistening with a tangy sauce that makes them irresistible.
To make these delicious treats, you’ll need ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a mix of spices. Form the mixture into small balls and bake or fry them until golden. The tangy sauce, made from ketchup, vinegar, and a hint of brown sugar, adds a delightful kick.
Serve them warm with toothpicks for easy snacking. They pair well with crunchy sides like breadsticks, which are also visible in the image. These meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or party!
Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Herb Marinade
Grilled vegetable skewers are a colorful and tasty addition to any BBQ spread. These skewers are packed with a variety of fresh veggies, making them a healthy choice that everyone can enjoy.
The image shows vibrant pieces of bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant, all beautifully arranged on wooden skewers. The bright colors not only make them appealing but also hint at the delicious flavors that come from grilling.
To make these skewers, you’ll need some fresh vegetables, olive oil, and a mix of herbs for the marinade. A simple blend of garlic, parsley, and lemon juice can elevate the taste. Just toss your veggies in the marinade, let them soak up the flavors, and then grill them until they’re tender and slightly charred.
These skewers are perfect as appetizers or as a side dish. They pair wonderfully with dips or sauces, adding a fresh crunch to your BBQ feast. Plus, they’re easy to customize based on your favorite veggies!
Smoky Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These smoky bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers are a must-try for any BBQ gathering. The image shows these delicious bites, perfectly wrapped in crispy bacon, ready to be devoured. The vibrant colors of the jalapeños and the golden-brown bacon create an eye-catching dish that’s hard to resist.
To make these poppers, you’ll need fresh jalapeños, cream cheese, shredded cheese, and, of course, bacon. Start by slicing the jalapeños in half and removing the seeds. Then, mix the cream cheese with shredded cheese and fill each half generously. Wrap them in bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
Once wrapped, bake or grill them until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melty. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or barbecue sauce, for an extra kick. These poppers are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ!
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Blue Cheese Dip
Buffalo cauliflower bites are a fantastic twist on the classic buffalo wings. These bites are crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect appetizer for any gathering. The image shows a vibrant plate filled with golden, crispy cauliflower bites, ready to be enjoyed.
Accompanying the cauliflower are two bowls of creamy blue cheese dip, which adds a rich and tangy contrast to the heat of the buffalo sauce. Fresh celery sticks sit nearby, providing a refreshing crunch that balances the dish.
To make these tasty bites, you’ll need cauliflower, buffalo sauce, and a few simple ingredients for the batter. Start by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Dip them in a mixture of flour and spices, then bake or fry until crispy. Toss them in buffalo sauce for that signature kick!
Serve with blue cheese dip for dipping and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors. These bites are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ or game day party!
Crispy Chicken Wings with Spicy Glaze
Crispy chicken wings are a classic appetizer that everyone loves. They are perfect for any gathering, especially barbecues. The wings in the image look mouthwatering, coated in a shiny spicy glaze that hints at a kick of flavor.
These wings are not just about taste; they also bring a fun, casual vibe to your table. Pair them with crunchy celery sticks, as shown, for a refreshing crunch that balances the heat. The combination is irresistible!
To make these wings, start with fresh chicken wings, toss them in your favorite spices, and bake or fry until crispy. Then, coat them in a spicy glaze made from hot sauce, butter, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Serve them hot and watch them disappear!
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Shrimp
Sweet and spicy BBQ shrimp are a delightful treat for any gathering. The vibrant colors of the shrimp, combined with the zesty lime and fresh cilantro, make this dish visually appealing. The shrimp are coated in a rich, tangy sauce that balances sweetness with a kick of heat.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh shrimp, BBQ sauce, honey, and a hint of chili powder. Start by marinating the shrimp in the sauce for at least 30 minutes. Then, grill or sauté them until they’re perfectly cooked. Serve them hot, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro for that extra pop of flavor.
This appetizer is not just tasty; it’s also quick to prepare. Perfect for summer BBQs or casual get-togethers, sweet and spicy BBQ shrimp will surely impress your guests!
Pulled Pork Sliders with Coleslaw
These pulled pork sliders are a must-try for any BBQ gathering. Picture a soft sesame seed bun piled high with tender pulled pork, topped with crunchy coleslaw. The vibrant colors and textures make them irresistible.
The combination of sweet and tangy BBQ sauce drizzled over the pork adds a delightful kick. The coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the meat. It’s the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion.
To make these sliders, you’ll need pulled pork, sesame seed buns, coleslaw mix, BBQ sauce, and your favorite toppings. Assemble them by layering the pork and coleslaw on the bun, and don’t forget to add extra sauce if you like it saucy!
These sliders are not just tasty; they’re also easy to serve. Set them out on a platter, and watch your guests dig in. They’re sure to be a hit!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a fantastic choice for a fun appetizer. They combine tender chicken with smoky BBQ sauce, all wrapped in crispy tortillas. The quesadillas are grilled to perfection, giving them a delightful crunch.
On the side, the fresh avocado salsa adds a burst of flavor. Diced avocado, cilantro, and a hint of lime create a refreshing contrast to the rich quesadillas. This dish is perfect for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
To make these quesadillas, start by cooking the chicken and mixing it with your favorite BBQ sauce. Place the mixture between two tortillas and grill until golden brown. Serve with the avocado salsa for a tasty dip.
Savory Cheddar and Chive Biscuits
These Savory Cheddar and Chive Biscuits are the perfect appetizer for any BBQ gathering. They’re fluffy, cheesy, and packed with fresh chives, making them a delightful treat. The golden hue and soft texture invite everyone to grab one (or two!).
To make these biscuits, you’ll need simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, shredded cheddar cheese, fresh chives, baking powder, butter, and milk. Start by mixing the dry ingredients, then cut in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cheese and chives, followed by the milk to form a dough.
Once your dough is ready, drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake until golden. The aroma of baking biscuits will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist tasting them right away. Serve warm, and watch them disappear!
Crispy Onion Rings with BBQ Dipping Sauce
Onion rings are a classic favorite, and these crispy delights are no exception. Stacked high, they look golden and crunchy, ready to be enjoyed. The BBQ dipping sauce beside them adds a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the savory flavor of the rings.
To make these tasty treats, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with fresh onions, sliced into rings. For the batter, mix flour, cornmeal, and spices to give it that extra crunch. Dip the onion rings in the batter and fry them until they are golden brown.
Once cooked, serve them hot with the BBQ sauce for dipping. This combination is perfect for any gathering or just a fun snack at home. They’re sure to be a hit!
Savory Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Chips
This spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavors of spinach and artichokes makes it a perfect appetizer. Served with crispy chips, it’s a delightful snack that everyone will enjoy.
To make this dip, you’ll need fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of cheeses. Start by sautéing the spinach until wilted, then mix it with the other ingredients. Bake until bubbly and golden. Serve it warm with a generous pile of chips for dipping.
The combination of the warm dip and crunchy chips creates a satisfying contrast. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Grilled Pineapple with Honey Glaze
Grilled pineapple with honey glaze is a delightful treat that adds a sweet twist to any BBQ. The image shows perfectly grilled pineapple rings, caramelized and glistening with a honey glaze. This dish is simple yet impressive, making it a great appetizer for gatherings.
To make this tasty treat, you’ll need fresh pineapple, honey, and a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor. Start by slicing the pineapple into rings and brushing them with honey. A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the taste even more. Grill the rings for a few minutes on each side until they have beautiful grill marks and are slightly softened.
These grilled pineapple rings can be served on their own or as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt. They bring a refreshing sweetness that balances savory BBQ dishes perfectly. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, making them a go-to option for any summer cookout!
Zesty Corn on the Cob with Lime Butter
This dish is a summer favorite that brings a burst of flavor to any BBQ. The image showcases beautifully grilled corn on the cob, slathered with creamy lime butter. The vibrant yellow corn is topped with a sprinkle of herbs, making it look as good as it tastes.
To make this zesty treat, you’ll need fresh corn, butter, lime juice, and a few herbs for garnish. Start by grilling the corn until it’s perfectly charred. While it’s grilling, mix softened butter with lime juice and zest. Once the corn is ready, spread the lime butter generously over each ear. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds an extra zing!
This appetizer is not just tasty; it’s also easy to prepare. It’s perfect for gatherings and pairs well with other BBQ dishes. Serve it alongside some refreshing drinks, and you’ve got a hit on your hands!
Cheesy BBQ Stuffed Potato Skins
Cheesy BBQ stuffed potato skins are a perfect appetizer for any gathering. These tasty bites are loaded with creamy cheese, savory BBQ sauce, and a sprinkle of green onions for that extra zing.
To make them, start with some baked potato halves. Scoop out the insides, mix them with cheese and your favorite BBQ sauce, and then stuff them back into the skins. Top with more cheese and pop them in the oven until golden and bubbly.
These potato skins are not just delicious; they are also visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the toppings make them a hit at any BBQ or party. Serve them hot, and watch them disappear!
