17 Southern Christmas Appetizers

Southern Pimento Cheese

Simultaneously creamy, tangy, and sweet, pimento cheese is a southern staple. Serve a batch of this spreadable dip with crackers, cut veggies, or in little finger sandwiches made with (what else?) white bread without the crusts.

Old-Fashioned Roasted Pecans

Whether you’re serving them to guests or bagging some up for an edible holiday gift, these roasted pecans are a show-stopping snack. Sweet sugar and spicy cinnamon combine to make this recipe a real treat.

Tomato and Bacon Jam

Naturally sweet tomatoes and smoky bacon work together to create this savory jam. Serve over a block of cream cheese with a side of crackers to delight guests. Better yet, jar some up for each guest, and offer it to them as a thank you gift at the end of the evening.

Rachael’s Superheated Cajun Boiled Peanuts

“These Cajun-seasoned boiled peanuts are the real deal. I created this recipe to reproduce the taste of my favorite boiled peanuts found in the Ocala National Forest in the heart of Florida. My family agrees this recipe is one of the best!” —Rachael N Reed Palmer

Kentucky Beer Cheese Spread

Beer and cheese, what more do you need? Chef John’s delicious dip has all the flavor of beer cheese, but without the effort of baking.

Smoked Fish Dip

“I think this fish dip recipe is world-class and puts most others to shame! It is served in several prominent restaurants on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Serve with crackers, lemon or lime wedges, and capers.” —KPERKINS100

Potato Salad Deviled Eggs

In this recipe, two Southern favorites combine into a wow-worthy appetizer. “I don’t think I’ll ever make regular deviled eggs again!” says user Erin. “Easy and inexpensive.”

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

They’re regular gooey and cheesy mozzarella sticks, but they pack a spicy punch. Plus, they’re wonderfully crispy.

Sausage Cheese Balls

Pretty much every Southern grandmother has their own spin on this classic appetizer. This recipe will be a stand-out among the more basic sausage balls your guests have likely had before.

Muffuletta Pinwheels

Based off the famous New Orleans sandwich, these bite-sized pinwheels pack a punch of flavor thanks to layers of ham, salami, and cheese.

Derby BLT Dip

This 6-ingredient dip starts with equal parts Miracle Whip and sour cream. Bacon bits, chopped green onion, Roma tomatoes, and Cheddar cheese lend irresistible color and flavor.

Cheese Straws

Delightfully crunchy and savory, it wouldn’t be a Southern get-together without a plate of cheese straws. “This is the perfect cheese straw recipe!” says Allrecipes user Laura C.

Cowboy Caviar

“Cowboy caviar is a quick, refreshing dish made with black-eyed peas and other pantry staples you’re sure to have on hand. It comes together in minutes and develops more flavor as it sits in the fridge, so consider taking this crowd-pleasing dip to picnics, parties, or potlucks.” —Cooknik

Southern Made Cheese Ball

Creole-style seasoning is the secret ingredient in this utterly Southern cheese ball. “I made this for a party and had everyone raving,” says user Jami C. “I was lucky to even get it to the party because my family wanted it for themselves!”

Vidalia Sweet Onion Dip

Vidalia onions, a sweet variety that is grown exclusively in Georgia, is the star of this savory dip. This recipe is great served with everything from crackers to fresh veggie slices. It’s even better if the flavors have had a day or two to “mingle.”

Grape Jelly Meatballs

Sweet grape jelly melds with spicy chili sauce to create an irresistible glaze for tender meatballs. Switch the heat setting to low, and serve straight out of the slow cooker to guests.

Alabama Fire Crackers

Transform a sleeve of basic crackers into a wow-worthy appetizer. Flavored with packets of ranch dressing seasoning, spicy red pepper flakes, and peppy garlic powder, these crackers are excellent as-is or served with a creamy dip.

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