What’s the difference between hors d’oeuvres and appetizers? While quite similar, hors d’oeuvre is the fancy French name for bite-sized tidbits served separately from the meal. On the other hand, appetizers are usually more substantial and can even be the meal. Not only are BBQ appetizers convenient, but they also make a great game-day staple for later in the year (or earlier, depending on the time of year we’re in). That makes them a must-have, and here’s a list of my favorites.
2. Baked Scotch Eggs
These guys are so cute! Sausage-covered hard-boiled eggs on a huge plate next to easy deviled eggs is a sure pleaser for everyone. You can bake or fry them and serve them as an appetizer, for breakfast, brunch, and even dinner!
3. Fried Gizzards
I still can’t believe how people in the States throw out the most delicious part of the chicken. I love gizzards fried and dipped in remoulade sauce. The hearts are tasty, too. You just have to cook them right.
4. Grilled Shrimp Kabob
This incredibly delicious BBQ appetizer is so easy to make and customize to the veggies you have on hand. Onions, peppers, summer squash, mushrooms, and eggplant can all be marinated and skewered with spicy shrimp. Yum!
5. Beer-Battered Fish & Tartar Sauce
I have to have fish and chips whenever I visit my family in England. Sorry guys, Long John’s just doesn’t cut it for me. I prefer to make my own. Cut the fish (cod or haddock) into bite-sized chunks, and you have the perfect appetizer.
6. Caribbean Sticky Hot Wings
It wouldn’t be a party without hot wings. This recipe with a mouthwatering sauce is my favorite way to make them. And since the grill is already hot, you can put these on first, and they’ll be ready in no time.
7. Spicy Sausage Rolls
Americans may have pigs in a blanket, but the Brits and Aussies have these sausage rolls. Ready-made puff pastry dough makes this BBQ appetizer a breeze to make. Anything surrounded by pastry dough has got to be good, and it’s easier to eat with your fingers.
8. Fried Pickles
What? You’ve never heard of fried pickles? Then you’re missing out on one of the easiest and most addictive appetizers out there. A classic soul food battered with a typical Southern buttermilk batter and fried to perfection creates an appetizer that will be the first to disappear. However, you can include them with the sandwich fixings if any are left by the time hamburgers come off the grill.
9. Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Shrimp are so adorable and already come in a bite-sized appetizer shape. The coconut’s sweetness perfectly pairs with the sriracha sauce. And the air fryer makes it super easy to have these ready while the grill is still heating up.
10. Ham & Cheese Sliders
Bite-sized sandwiches are the ideal hunger pang killer while being enticed by the aroma of what’s on the grill. And they’re small enough not to destroy your appetite by the time the main course is ready.
11. Beer-Battered Onion Rings
My favorite I-don’t-care-if-it’s-healthy BBQ appetizer is onion rings. These babies are even better with beer batter. I especially love them with Spanish onions for the extra crunch and sweetness. And don’t forget to make this quick tartar sauce as your dip.
12. Southern Cheese Straws
Another Southern classic – I remember the first time I tried this crunchy cheesy delight. Move over cheese puffs! I have my new favorite snack! It’s also a perfect appetizer because it’s super easy to make ahead, and little fingers can happily munch these away mess-free.
13. Little Smokies
This recipe has to be one of the most traditional appetizers on game day, and I understand why. Who doesn’t just love these cute little bites of sausage simmered in a drool-worthy sauce? If you have a crockpot or slow cooker, put it all in first thing in the morning, and by the time you’re ready to roll, so are they.
14. Easy Deviled Eggs
I’ve never been to an authentic Southern BBQ or cookout without deviled eggs. In fact, there’s usually a competition to see who made the best ones. If you want to win, try this recipe. 😉
15. Fondant Potatoes
Potatoes have to be one of my favorite foods. They’re so versatile; they go with almost anything. Did you know you can even make candy with potatoes? These potatoes are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Great for super easy BBQ appetizers! You can now confidently host a BBQ party with all these easy starters. What’s your favorite BBQ appetizer?
