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    Home / 25 Easy Holiday Appetizer Ideas Ready in 30 Minutes or Less

    25 Easy Holiday Appetizer Ideas Ready in 30 Minutes or Less

    Cast Iron Keto
    by Cast Iron Keto
    Updated: Dec 16,2024
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    When the holidays roll around, there’s nothing better than serving a spread of crowd-pleasing appetizers that are quick, easy, and downright delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party or need something last-minute, this list of easy holiday appetizer ideas will have you covered. These appetizers are ready in 30 minutes or less, saving you time and stress without skimping on flavor. Let’s dive into these easy, delicious holiday appetizers that are sure to impress your guests!

    A collection of easy holiday appetizer ideas that can be made under 30 minutes.
    Jump to:
    • 25 Best Holiday Appetizers
    • Conclusion

    25 Best Holiday Appetizers

    Get ready to impress your guests with these easy, delicious, and festive holiday appetizers that are sure to be the highlight of your gathering.

    close up image of Keto Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

    Keto Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

    These meatballs pack a flavorful punch that will have your guests reaching for more. The spicy buffalo sauce and tender meatballs create a perfect balance of heat and savory goodness. Serve them with a side of creamy ranch dip for an irresistible appetizer.

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 20 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

    Smoked Salmon Cucumber Rolls

    These rolls are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them a standout on any appetizer platter. The vibrant colors of fresh cucumbers and smoked salmon create an inviting and elegant look. With a hint of dill and cream cheese, each bite is refreshingly light yet satisfying. 

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    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 0 minutes
    • Total Time: 20 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 4 Servings
    Keto salmon cucumber rolls pierced by toothpicks.
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    Keto Little Smokies in a skillet with one being taken out with a toothpick

    Keto Little Smokies

    These smoky sausages wrapped in crispy bacon are an irresistible combo of sweet and savory. Add a sprinkle of paprika or a keto-friendly barbecue glaze for an extra layer of flavor. They’re the perfect finger food for any gathering.

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 25 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 12 Servings

    Keto Mozzarella Sticks

    Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these mozzarella sticks are a hit at any holiday spread. Each bite is a gooey, cheesy delight that melts in your mouth. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and watch them disappear quickly. 

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Chilling Time: 2 hours
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 20 Minutes (excluding chilling time)
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 4 Servings
    mozzarella Cheese Sticks on a plate
    a close-up shot of coconut shrimp in a serving tray

    Keto Coconut Shrimp

    Crispy, golden, and lightly sweet, these coconut shrimp are like a tropical escape on your holiday table. You will feel like you’ve been transported to a beachside feast. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce to elevate the flavors even more. 

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 20 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 4 Servings

    Keto Calamari

    Add sophistication with perfectly fried calamari rings. The golden-brown exterior and tender interior make each bite a delightful experience. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon and a side of marinara for a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. 

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 15 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 4 Servings
    Keto Calamari in a serving tray with white parchment paper
    a hand holding Keto Sausage Balls

    Keto Sausage Balls

    A savory delight that combines ground sausage with cheese and spices for a bite-sized treat. Ground sausage, cheese, and spices create a flavorful, easy-to-enjoy bite. Customize them with your favorite herbs to make these balls uniquely yours. They’re perfect for any holiday gathering, offering a hearty and satisfying treat. 

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
    • Total Time: 30 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 14 Servings

    Guacamole Dip with Keto Tortilla Chips

    Nothing brings people together like a creamy guacamole dip paired with crispy keto tortilla chips. The fresh flavors of avocados, lime, and cilantro create a vibrant and inviting dip that everyone will love.

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    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 8 minutes
    • Total Time: 28 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 3 Servings
    Guacamole dip in a bowl with keto tortilla chips on a wooden plate.
    Lamb kebabs.

    Lamb Shish Kebabs

    These succulent lamb shish kebabs that are full of bold and exotic flavors. The marinated lamb is grilled to perfection, ensuring each skewer is juicy and tender. Served with a side of tzatziki sauce, these kebabs offer a delightful balance of spices and creamy goodness.

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    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Marinating Time: 4-24 hours
    • Total Time: 30 Minutes (excluding marinating time)
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 3 Servings

    Savory Fat Bombs

    These unique and tasty additions offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Loaded with healthy fats and savory seasonings, they’re both satisfying and keto-friendly. You can customize them with ingredients like cheese, herbs, and spices to suit your personal preferences.

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 25 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 8 Servings
    chicken fat bomb mixture formed into balls after rolling in bacon
    Low carb parmesan crisps on wooden serving tray.

    Keto Parmesan Crisps

    Add a touch of elegance with these Parmesan crisps that are ready in minutes. The rich, cheesy flavor and delicate crunch make them a perfect standalone snack or a delightful accompaniment to your favorite dips. Their golden appearance adds a sophisticated look to your holiday spread. 

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
    • Resting Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 30 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 4 Servings (24 parmesan crisps)

    Keto Italian Cauliflower Poppers

    Bring a nutritious and flavorful option to your appetizer table with these Italian cauliflower poppers. Seasoned with Italian herbs and baked to a perfect golden crisp, they offer a delightful bite every time. Perfect for dipping in marinara or your favorite keto-friendly sauce, these poppers are both tasty and healthy. 

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    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 30 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 6 Servings
    Keto Italian Cauliflower Poppers on a black cast iron tray
    KETO HALLOUMI FRIES in bowl with toppings

    Keto Halloumi Fries

    A deliciously crispy and savory treat that’s perfect for holiday snacking. The halloumi cheese is cut into French fry-shaped strips and pan-fried until golden brown, offering a delightful texture and rich flavor. These fries are a fantastic alternative to traditional potato options.

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 30 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 4 Servings

    Keto Jalapeño Bacon Cheese Taco Shells

    The crunchy shells infused with jalapeño and bacon offer a unique taste experience that’s both spicy and savory. Fill them with your favorite toppings like cream cheese or guacamole to create a customizable treat. These shells add a playful and tasty element to your holiday spread. 

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 15 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 4 Servings
    a single taco being held close to the camera. Other tacos on a serving board in the background
    Keto Jalapeno Popper Mushrooms in skillet

    Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Mushrooms

    Add a bit of heat and creamy goodness with these jalapeño popper stuffed mushrooms. The combination of spicy jalapeños and rich cheese-filled mushroom caps creates a mouthwatering bite. They’re visually appealing and packed with bold flavors, making them a standout appetizer. 

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    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
    • Total Time: 40 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 12 Servings

    Cajun Shrimp

    Bold and spicy, these Cajun shrimp are a flavor-packed holiday treat. Bold seasoning and vibrant color make them a standout on your table. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing.

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Marinating Time: 20 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 5 minutes
    • Total Time: 30 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 2 Servings
    Low-carb Cajun shrimp served on a white plate with a side dip bowl and a fork.
    Top-down of Keto Hushpuppies in a tray, with a bowl jalapeno sauce directly behind

    Keto Jalapeño Shrimp Hush Puppies

    Enjoy the perfect blend of spicy jalapeños and succulent shrimp with these hush puppies. The crispy, low-carb batter encases the flavorful shrimp, creating a delightful texture and taste. These bites add a bit of heat and crunch to your appetizer spread, making them irresistible. 

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
    • Total Time: 25 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 8 Servings

    Keto Popcorn Shrimp

    Bite-sized and perfectly seasoned, these crispy popcorn shrimp are impossible to resist. Pair with a spicy mayo dip for the ultimate combo. These shrimp are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any party!

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 15 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 6 Servings
    Keto Jalapeño Shrimp Hushpuppies in a tray, with a bowl jalapeno sauce directly behind
    Keto Crab Cakes in tray with sliced lemons and sauce

    Keto Crab Cakes

    Bring a touch of luxury to your holiday table with these delectable crab cakes. Made with tender crab meat and seasoned with herbs and spices, each cake is pan-fried to a crispy golden brown.  Serve with a dollop of garlic aioli for extra elegance.

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 15 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 2 Servings

    Keto Italian Meatball Recipe

    These hearty Italian meatballs are a flavorful addition to your appetizer lineup that everyone will enjoy. Seasoned with aromatic Italian herbs and pan-fried to tender perfection, they offer a satisfying and easy holiday treat. 

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 15 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 6 Servings
    Italian meatballs recipe served on a plate.
    Keto Cheddar Bacon Deviled Eggs garnished with green herbs, paprika and bacon.

    Keto Cheddar Bacon Deviled Eggs

    Elevate the classic deviled egg with rich cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits for a mouthwatering twist. Creamy yolk and savory bacon combine for a flavor-packed bite that’s sure to impress. These deviled eggs are easy to make and add a touch of elegance to your appetizer table. 

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    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Total Time: 15 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 12 Deviled Eggs (6 Whole Eggs)

    Keto Chicken Poppers

    Delight your guests with these juicy and flavorful chicken poppers that are perfect for dipping and sharing. Seasoned with a blend of spices and baked until tender, these poppers offer a delicious appetizer option. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a flavor-packed bite.

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
    • Total Time: 25 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 6 Servings
    Keto Cheesy Chicken Poppers served with ketchup
    Mediterranean Stuffed Mushrooms

    Keto Mediterranean Stuffed Mushrooms

    Add Mediterranean flair to your appetizer table with stuffed mushrooms filled with feta, olives, and herbs. Each bite is a burst of rich flavors that transport your guests to the sunny shores. They’re visually stunning and packed with deliciousness. 

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
    • Total Time: 20 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 5 Servings

    Keto Deviled Eggs

    The creamy, tangy filling is seasoned to perfection and topped with a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch of flavor. They’re easy to prepare and always a hit, providing a classic appetizer that everyone loves. These deviled eggs add a touch of tradition and deliciousness to your festive spread.

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    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 2 minutes
    • Total Time: 12 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 12 Servings
    Keto egg recipe.
    seared scallops with lemon slices

    Scallops

    Treat your guests to these luxurious scallops that are surprisingly easy to prepare. Seared to a perfect golden brown, the scallops are tender and bursting with natural sweetness. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of herb butter to enhance their delicate flavor. 

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    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cooking Time: 5 minutes
    • Total Time: 10 Minutes
    • Difficulty Level: Easy
    • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

    Conclusion

    The holidays are busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or fun in the kitchen. These easy holiday appetizer recipes prove that quick, delicious, and impressive can go hand-in-hand. So, pick your favorites, give them a try, and let us know which ones steal the show at your gathering. Happy holidays, and happy cooking!

    Make your holiday celebrations simple and tasty! Check out these easy recipes to impress your guests without the stress.

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