Summer is here, and it’s the perfect season to throw some cookouts and host a barbecue party. But what’s a cookout without great appetizers?
They say that you can tell if the whole meal will be amazing just by the appetizers. So, if you want to impress your guests from the start, you need to make sure you have some delicious appetizers on hand.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing 35 must-try easy cookout appetizers that everyone will love.
35 Must-Try Easy Cookout Appetizers
1. Avocado Bruschetta
This appetizer is a tasty twist on a classic bruschetta. Instead of using tomatoes, use avocados and lime juice as your base.
2. Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon
This sweet and spicy appetizer is a hit among party-goers. All you need to do is grill some pineapple slices and sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top.
3. Jalapeño Poppers
These spicy poppers are perfect for those who love a little heat. Simply stuff them with cream cheese or cheddar cheese and wrap them in bacon for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Caprese Bites
These are a simple, yet delicious, appetizer that everyone will enjoy. Just skewer some cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese, and drizzle them with some balsamic vinaigrette.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
These are one of the easiest and quickest ways to make shrimp. Top them with some garlic, butter and lemon juice and you’ll have a dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.
6. Mini Pizzas
These bites of deliciousness are full of flavor and super easy to make. Simply use mini pre-made pizza crusts and top them with tomato sauce, cheese, and fresh basil. Pop them in the oven and you’re good to go.
7. Watermelon Feta Skewers
This savory and sweet appetizer is as refreshing as it is delicious. Just skewer some watermelon and feta cheese and top it off with some balsamic glaze.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn is a summer staple, and grilling corn on the cob is one of the easiest ways to up your cookout game. Add some butter and salt, and you’ll have a perfect appetizer.
Read More: 37 Easy Corn on the Cob Recipes
9. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
This dish is a perfect appetizer if you’re going for a more elegant vibe. Just wrap some asparagus in bacon, sprinkle with some garlic powder and pop them in the oven.
10. Buffalo Chicken Dip
This appetizer is a crowd-pleaser and is super easy to make. Just mix cream cheese, shredded chicken, hot sauce and top with cheddar cheese.
11. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A vibrant and delicious dip that is made with spinach, artichokes and cream cheese. Ideal for dipping veggies, pita chips, or even tortilla chips.
12. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
These skewers are marinated in teriyaki sauce which gives them an incredible flavor. Grill them and serve them as an appetizer.
13. Veggie Platter
This simple & healthy option is full of vibrant vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, celery, and peppers. Pair this with hummus or ranch dressing.
14. Mexican Street Corn Salad
This corn salad recipe is a total showstopper and one that you’ll want to make again and again. The combination of corn, onions, chili powder, and lime juice makes it absolutely irresistible.
15. Deviled Eggs
This classic appetizer never gets old. It’s the perfect combination of creamy and tangy and is super easy to make.
16. Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Scallops are a great and flavorful way to start off your cookout. Wrap them in bacon and grill them for a crispy, delicious bite.
17. Antipasto Skewers
These appetizers have a little bit of everything — olives, mozzarella cheese, salami, and cherry tomatoes. You can even add some artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
18. Meatball Sliders
This classic appetizer is easy to make and a real crowd-pleaser. Simply top a mini bun with meatballs, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
19. Stuffed Mushrooms
These mushrooms are loaded with cream cheese, garlic and parmesan cheese. Yum!
20. Black Bean and Corn Salsa
This colorful and delicious salsa mixes black beans, corn, onions, bell peppers, and lime juice to create a refreshing flavor.
21. BBQ Chicken Wings
With juicy chicken and a sauce that’s to die for, your guests won’t be able to get enough of these BBQ wings.
22. Grilled Zucchini with Herbed Olive Oil
Slice zucchini, brush with herbed olive oil, and grill for a light and flavorful veggie appetizer.
23. Cheddar Bacon Burger Bites
Make mini burger patties, top with cheddar cheese and bacon, and serve on slider buns for a delightful appetizer.
24. Guacamole Stuffed Mini Peppers
Halve mini bell peppers, stuff them with guacamole, and garnish with a sprinkle of cilantro.
25. BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Slow-cooked pulled pork, drizzled with BBQ sauce, and served on small slider buns is a BBQ classic.
26. Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers
Marinate chicken chunks in honey mustard sauce and grill them on skewers for a sweet and tangy appetizer.
27. Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Mayo
Serve crispy sweet potato fries with a spicy chipotle mayo dip.
28. Cucumber and Dill Greek Yogurt Dip
Combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, and garlic for a refreshing and healthy dip, perfect for veggies or pita chips.
29. Mushroom and Swiss Sliders
Create sliders with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese served on mini buns.
30. Grilled Veggie Platter
Grill a variety of veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, and serve them with a balsamic glaze.
31. Pineapple Salsa
Dice pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño for a sweet and spicy salsa to serve with tortilla chips.
32. Teriyaki Beef Skewers
Marinate beef in teriyaki sauce, skewer, and grill for a savory appetizer with an Asian twist.
33. Baked Mac and Cheese Bites
Make bite-sized mac and cheese balls, bread and bake them until crispy, and serve with a side of marinara sauce.
34. Mango and Chili Lime Shrimp
Marinate shrimp in a mixture of mango and chili lime sauce, then grill or broil until cooked through.
35. Caprese Salad Skewers
Create mini Caprese salads on skewers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Final Thoughts,
There you have it: 35 easy cookout appetizers that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, spicy, savory, or just plain delicious, these appetizers are sure to satisfy any crowd.
Remember, the key to a great appetizer is simplicity, and these dishes are all simple yet flavorful. So, the next time you’re throwing a party, consider adding one or two of these delicious appetizers to your menu. Your guests will thank you for it!
