Let’s be honest, the main course isn’t always the star of the barbecue.
It’s that time before the burgers are even on the grill, when everyone is mingling and looking for that first delicious bite.
This is where the appetizers REALLY shine.
You need snacks that are easy to make, simple to eat while you’re chatting, and of course, AMAZINGLY good.
I put together a list of the best summer BBQ appetizers to make sure you have the perfect thing ready to go.
You’ll find everything from cheesy dips and grilled skewers to fresh, no-cook bites.
So whether you’re hosting a huge backyard party or just a small family cookout, these appetizers are the perfect way to get things started.
1. Veggie Dip
This Veggie Dip is packed with delicious garlic and herb flavors, ready to enjoy. It’s a super quick vegetable dip that takes just 5 minutes to make, perfect for pairing with fresh vegetables at any party or potluck.
2. Chipotle Chili Lime Almonds
These Chipotle Chili Lime Almonds offer a delightfully zesty and smoky crunch.
They are an incredibly easy snack to make, perfect for a quick grab-and-go or for entertaining.
Enjoy these flavorful chili lime almonds as a naturally gluten-free and low-carb option.
3. Slow Cooker Salsa Pulled Chicken Sliders
Slow Cooker Salsa Pulled Chicken Sliders are your go-to for effortless flavor.
These tender pulled chicken sliders, brightened with zesty salsa and creamy avocado lime crema, are perfect for any gathering.
They’ll be the star dish, especially when cheering on your team during the big game.
4. Cheese Crackers with Apples and Honey Walnuts
Elevate your snacking with Cheese Crackers with Apples and Honey Walnuts. This simple recipe takes the beloved combination of crackers with cheese and apples to new heights. It’s a quick, delicious, and versatile appetizer perfect for any occasion.
5. Slow Cooker Queso
This Slow Cooker Queso is a smooth, creamy, and perfectly spicy dip everyone will love.
It’s incredibly easy to make right in your slow cooker, ensuring a delicious hit for any gathering.
6. Artichoke And Pesto Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Enjoy the fresh taste of the Mediterranean with this delightful Artichoke And Pesto Mediterranean Quinoa Salad.
It’s packed with tender quinoa, tangy artichokes, and bright pesto, perfect for a satisfying light lunch or easy side.
7. Enchilada Cups
Enchilada Cups offer a delightful and easy twist on your favorite Mexican dinner. These bite-sized chicken cups are perfect for feeding a crowd or serving as a cute, flavorful appetizer.
8. Homemade Ranch Dip
Enjoy the classic taste of Homemade Ranch Dip that’s free from preservatives.
This easy-to-make dip uses familiar herbs and spices, with a homemade ranch powder that stores well for months.
9. Chicken Souvlaki
Chicken Souvlaki features tender chicken skewers, marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs.
Grilled to perfection, these flavorful skewers are wonderful served with a creamy yogurt sauce.
10. Cheeseburger Dip
This hot and delicious Cheeseburger Dip tastes just like your favorite burger. It’s a perfect cheesy, baked dip for parties and game day celebrations.
11. Air Fryer Nachos
Air Fryer Nachos are the ultimate quick snack to satisfy any craving.
Easily customize these delicious air fryer cheese nachos with your favorite toppings like chicken or beef.
Making nachos in your air fryer truly couldn’t be simpler for a tasty treat.
12. Baked Zucchini Fries
Baked Zucchini Fries are delightfully crispy on the outside and wonderfully soft inside.
They’re a perfect way to enjoy your zucchini, especially when you have an abundance, and are great for dipping.
13. Cod Cakes
Get ready to enjoy delicious Cod Cakes, perfect as a versatile appetizer or a satisfying main course.
These Lemon Garlic Cod Cakes are an easy favorite, loved by many for their delightful flavor.
Quick to prepare and cook, these bite-sized fish cakes make a delectable treat for any occasion.
14. Hearts of Palm Cakes Recipe
Hearts of Palm Cakes are the perfect answer for a delicious vegetarian crab cakes experience. These satisfyingly crunchy cakes are crafted with hearts of palm and artichokes, served with a bright, zesty garlic aioli. Discover why this recipe quickly becomes a favorite among hearts of palm recipes.
15. Crockpot Cheeseburger Dip
Crockpot Cheeseburger Dip is a rich and creamy delight, loaded with savory ground beef and melted cheese.
This Bacon Cheeseburger Dip features smoky bacon, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser for scooping with your favorite chips.
16. Avocado Crema
This smooth and creamy Avocado Crema offers the perfect zing of lime.
It’s a delicious and healthy alternative to guacamole, perfect as a dip or topping.
This easy recipe is sure to be a hit, even with picky eaters.
17. Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta Balls
These Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta Balls are incredibly easy to make for a delicious meal.
You can have this flavorful kofta dish ready in under 30 minutes.
It’s the perfect fuss-free recipe for a quick weeknight dinner.
18. Corn Salad
This simple Corn Salad recipe is wonderfully refreshing and quick to prepare. It’s the perfect easy corn salad for all your summer BBQs and picnics.
19. Homemade Potato Chips
Homemade Potato Chips are salty, crispy, golden-brown delights that are truly irresistible. This easy potato chips recipe makes a perfect snack you’ll want to enjoy with your favorite dip or a tasty sandwich.
20. 5-Minute Roasted Red Pepper Spread
The 5-Minute Roasted Red Pepper Spread is a quick and incredibly versatile addition to any table.
Whip up this delicious roasted red pepper dip in just minutes for a flavorful spread on sandwiches or a vibrant dip for crackers.
It’s the perfect easy way to brighten up your snacks and meals.
21. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a truly delicious and easy-to-make dish.
These keto buffalo chicken meatballs offer a less messy, lighter twist on classic wings, perfect for satisfying your spicy cravings.
22. Slow Cooker Salsa
Get ready to make delicious homemade “roasted” Slow Cooker Salsa with ease.
This recipe uses your crockpot to create a big batch, perfect for enjoying now or freezing for later.
23. Pimento Cheese Spread
Pimento Cheese Spread is a delightful Southern classic that everyone loves. This easy recipe makes a fantastic pimento cheese dip or a creamy spread for crackers and sandwiches. It truly brings a comforting taste of the South to any occasion.
24. Cheesy Potato Skins
Cheesy Potato Skins are a classic appetizer, perfect for delighting any crowd.
Each savory skin is loaded with sour cream, tasty bacon, and fresh green onions for a truly delicious bite.
25. Slow Cooker Pizza Dip
This Slow Cooker Pizza Dip is the ultimate easy appetizer.
Simply add your ingredients to the crock pot for a super cheesy dip perfect for game day or any group gathering.
26. Buffalo Chicken Tenders
These easy Buffalo Chicken Tenders bring a delicious, gluten-free twist to a classic favorite.
Whip up this buffalo chicken tenders recipe with just four ingredients, making it perfect for game day or a quick, flavorful dinner.
27. Cajun Oyster Crackers
Cajun Oyster Crackers offer a zesty, flavorful crunch that’s perfect for any occasion.
These easy Cajun crackers make an irresistible snack or a delicious topping for soups and salads.
28. Pizza Empanadas
Pizza Empanadas are an easy and fun way to enjoy your favorite pizza flavors.
This kid-friendly twist on classic pizza is perfect for a quick meal or snack.
29. Artichoke Dip
This Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy delight.
It blends three types of cheese with tender artichoke hearts, garlic, and herbs for a perfect flavor.
Baked to golden perfection, it’s a quick and easy appetizer that always gets rave reviews.
30. Caprese Toast
Caprese Toast offers an easy and delicious way to enjoy fresh flavors. This delightful toast combines juicy tomato, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella. It’s perfect as a simple appetizer or an elevated bread side for dinner.
31. Baba Ganoush
Baba Ganoush is a wonderfully flavorful Middle Eastern eggplant dip.
This creamy classic offers a delightful blend of smoky and fresh notes, perfect for sharing.