The turkey’s still in the oven, and guests are roaming the kitchen. But don’t sweat it—these easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers come to your rescue!
This line-up of tried-and-true recipes gives everyone a tasty snack before the main event, including soft pretzel bites, caramelized onion dip, and my favorite bacon-wrapped dates! Best of all, no one will know they’re gluten-free!
The Best Hot Artichoke Dip
This is truly the absolute best hot artichoke dip! Everyone always asks for this recipe, and it's one of my #1 appetizers today. This family favorite is super easy to make and has a great make-ahead option—perfect for a busy Thanksgiving day!
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Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese (and Hot Honey!)
These bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese are my all-time favorite appetizer! They're creamy, savory, and sweet—an easy appetizer to wow your guests!These dates are naturally gluten-free and great to make ahead. Add a drizzle of hot honey to take them to the next level!
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Gluten-Free Stuffed Mushrooms (Family Favorite!)
These gluten-free stuffed mushrooms are another family favorite, filled with a savory sausage cream cheese filling and topped with gluten-free breadcrumbs. No matter how many I make, they disappear almost instantly!
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Homemade Caramelized Onion Dip (Make-Ahead!)
This homemade caramelized onion dip is a huge hit every Thanksgiving! It's creamy, tangy, and tastes even better when made a day in advance! My top tip is to use a mandolin slicer for ultra-thin, uniform onion slices.
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Gluten-Free Soft Pretzel Bites
Who could resist these gluten-free soft pretzels? They're chewy, bready perfection, and easier to make than you'd think!Serve them with a gluten-free cheese sauce or mustard for a delicious Thanksgiving appetizer. You can also make and freeze the dough ahead of time to bake up fresh on Thanksgiving day!
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Easy Gluten-Free Cheese Sauce
This creamy gluten-free cheese sauce pairs perfectly with gluten-free soft pretzels. It's a beginner-friendly recipe that takes your appetizer spread to the next level!My #1: Use freshly shredded cheese and mix on low to prevent clumping.
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Easy, Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip
This pumpkin cheesecake dip comes together in 10 minutes and is an easy make-ahead dessert for Thanksgiving!Serve it with graham crackers, cookies, and apple slices for a sweet addition to your appetizer table.
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Gluten Free Charcuterie Board
This gluten-free charcuterie is the perfect blend of salty meat and cheese, savory crackers, sweet fruit, and honey drizzle. Read the post for my top gluten-free cracker recommendations and tips for building the perfect board!
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Dairy-Free Spinach Artichoke Dip (Best Recipe!)
This dairy-free spinach artichoke dip is rich, creamy and flavorful! Made with a mix of caramelized onions, artichoke hearts, and dairy-free cream cheese, it's my go-to Thanksgiving appetizer for guests with food allergies.
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The Best Gluten-Free Cheese Scones
If you're looking for gluten-free cheese scones that are light, fluffy, and rise well every time, these absolutely hit the mark! They're buttery, flaky, and perfectly crisp on the outside, made with savory cheddar cheese and fresh chives.
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Ultra-Creamy Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free Cheeseball (Vegan!)
This vegan party cheeseball is perfect for Thanksgiving because it can be made up to 3 days in advance. In fact, the flavors just get better as it sits a little longer. Even my highly skeptical dad and brother had to admit this was delicious!My #1 tip: Coat it in pecans just a few hours before serving so they stay crisp, and serve with your favorite gluten-free crackers.
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Gluten-Free Mozzarella Sticks (Fry or Air Fry!)
These gluten-free mozzarella sticks are always a hit with kids and adults alike, with a melty, gooey cheese center and perfectly crispy batter!These mozzarella sticks can be made in advance and deep-fried or air-fried. Either way, they're perfect for your Thanksgiving spread!
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Dairy-Free Buffalo Chicken Dip (That’s Just As Good As the Original)
You won't miss the dairy in this creamy, cheesy, and tangy dairy-free buffalo chicken dip! Serve it with tortilla chips and veggies to keep it gluten-free as well!
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Gluten-Free Bruschetta
Marinated tomatoes and rich burrata make all the difference in this gluten-free bruschetta. It’s the perfect light, fresh bite before all the comforting Thanksgiving classics.
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Deviled Eggs with Relish (Best Classic Recipe!)
A big platter of deviled eggs is always a win, especially on Thanksgiving. We love ours with sweet relish for a perfect tangy-sweet balance.
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I hope you and your Thanksgiving crew enjoy these appetizers! If you make any of them, be sure to tag @meaningfuleats on Instagram—I love seeing your creations!
