20 Best Finger Foods For Party | Budget-Friendly Appetizers

Best Finger Foods for Party | Finger Food Appetizers

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When it comes to hosting a party, one of the most important aspects to consider is the food.

Finger foods are a popular choice as they are easy to eat, require no utensils, and can be enjoyed by guests of all ages.

However, finding the perfect finger foods that are both delicious and budget-friendly can be a challenge.

But worry not, because we have handpicked the “20 best finger foods for party,” guaranteed to make your event a hit without breaking the bank.

From mini sliders to bacon-wrapped sausages, these delectable treats will unleash the flavor and leave your guests craving more.

The Top 20 Budget-Friendly Best Finger Foods for Party

Mini Sliders

1. Mini Sliders

Mini sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser and an absolute must-have at any party.

These bite-sized burgers are packed with flavor and are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

  • To make these mini sliders, start by mixing ground beef with your favorite seasonings.
  • Shape the mixture into small patties and cook them on a grill or stovetop until they are cooked through.
  • Place the cooked patties on mini buns and top them with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings of your choice.
  • The best part? You can make a large batch of mini sliders at a fraction of the cost of traditional burgers.
  • Get the recipe here.
Caprese Skewers

2. Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are a classic and elegant finger food that will impress your guests without breaking the bank.

  • To make these delicious skewers, simply alternate cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves on skewers.
  • Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze and sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
  • Not only are these caprese skewers visually appealing, but they also pack a punch of flavor.
  • The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil is a match made in heaven.
  • Get the recipe here.
Marinated Feta

3. Marinated Feta

Marinated feta is a simple yet sophisticated finger food that will elevate your party to the next level.

  • To make this dish, start by cutting a block of feta cheese into bite-sized cubes.
  • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried herbs, and salt.
  • Pour the marinade over the feta cubes and let them marinate for at least an hour.
  • The result is a creamy and tangy feta cheese that pairs perfectly with crackers or crusty bread.
  • Not only is marinated feta delicious, but it is also cost-effective as a little goes a long way.
  • Check out the recipe here.
Mini Quiches

4. Mini Quiches

Mini quiches are a versatile finger food that can be customized to suit any taste.

  • To make these delectable treats, start by whisking together eggs, milk, and your favorite fillings such as cheese, vegetables, or meats.
  • Pour the mixture into mini muffin tins and bake them until the quiches are set and golden brown.
  • These mini quiches can be served hot or cold, making them a convenient option for parties.
  • Plus, they are a great way to use up leftover ingredients, making them a budget-friendly choice.
  • Get the mini quinches recipe here.
Bruschetta

5. Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that is both delicious and affordable.

  • To make bruschetta, start by toasting slices of baguette until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • In a bowl, mix diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Spoon the tomato mixture onto the toasted baguette slices and sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese.
  • The result is a refreshing and flavorful finger food that is sure to be a hit at your party.
  • Best of all, bruschetta can be made in large quantities without breaking the bank.
  • Get the bruschetta recipe here.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip

6. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip is a creamy and indulgent finger food that will have your guests coming back for more.

  • To make this crowd-pleasing dip, start by sautéing chopped spinach and artichoke hearts in olive oil until they are tender.
  • In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and salt.
  • Add the cooked spinach and artichokes to the cream cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
  • Serve the dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette.
  • This delicious dip can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for party planning.
  • Get the spinach and artichoke recipe here.
Mini Tacos

7. Mini Tacos

Mini tacos are a fun and festive finger food that will add a Mexican flair to your party.

  • To make these mini tacos, start by browning ground beef in a skillet and seasoning it with taco seasoning.
  • Fill mini tortillas with the cooked ground beef and top them with shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any other toppings of your choice.
  • These mini tacos can be served hot or cold, making them a versatile option for parties.
  • Plus, they can be made in large quantities without breaking the bank.
  • Check out the mini tacos recipe here.
Sweet Potato Rounds with Avocado Salsa

8. Sweet Potato Rounds with Avocado Salsa

Sweet potato rounds with avocado salsa are colorful, nutrient‑packed finger foods.

  • To make these vibrant rounds, slice sweet potatoes into 1/4‑inch thick coins, brush with olive oil, and bake at 425 °F (220 °C) for 20 minutes until tender and lightly crisp.
  • Meanwhile, dice avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro, then toss with lime juice, salt, and a touch of chili flakes.
  • Top each sweet potato round with a spoonful of the avocado salsa and garnish with a cilantro leaf.
  • These sweet potato rounds are a healthy, make‑ahead appetizer that holds up well at room temperature.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

9. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo chicken meatballs are a spicy and flavorful finger food that will add a kick to your party.

  • To make these delicious meatballs, start by mixing ground chicken with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onions, and your favorite hot sauce.
  • Shape the mixture into small meatballs and bake them until they are cooked through.
  • Serve the meatballs with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for a complete buffalo chicken experience.
  • These meatballs are not only budget-friendly but also easy to make in large batches.
  • Get the buffalo chicken meatballs recipe here.
Stuffed Mushrooms

10. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are an elegant and sophisticated finger food that will impress your guests.

  • To make these delectable treats, start by removing the stems from large mushrooms and hollowing out the caps.
  • In a bowl, mix cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and breadcrumbs.
  • Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the mushroom caps and bake them until they are golden brown and bubbly.
  • These stuffed mushrooms are a flavorful and budget-friendly option for parties.
  • Get the stuffed mushrooms recipe here.
Gougères

11. Gougères

Gougères are light and airy cheese puffs that will add a touch of elegance to your party.

  • To make these delightful treats, start by boiling water, butter, and salt in a saucepan.
  • Add flour to the mixture and stir until it forms a dough.
  • Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and beat in eggs one at a time until the dough is smooth and shiny.
  • Stir in grated cheese and pipe the dough onto a baking sheet.
  • Bake the gougères until they are puffed up and golden brown.
  • These cheesy puffs are a delicious and cost-effective option for parties.
  • Get the gougères recipe here.
Shrimp Cocktail

12. Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is a classic and refreshing finger food that will transport your guests to the seaside.

  • To make this elegant dish, start by poaching peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixture of water, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  • Once the shrimp are cooked through, transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool.
  • Serve the chilled shrimp with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
  • This simple yet sophisticated finger food is sure to impress your guests without breaking the bank.
  • Check out the shrimp cocktail recipe here.
Deviled Eggs

13. Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a timeless and crowd-pleasing finger food that will never go out of style.

  • To make these delectable treats, start by hard-boiling eggs and cutting them in half lengthwise.
  • Remove the yolks and mash them with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg whites and sprinkle them with paprika or chopped chives for garnish.
  • These deviled eggs are not only delicious but also a budget-friendly option for parties.
  • Check out the deviled eggs recipe here.
Mini Spring Rolls

14. Mini Spring Rolls

Mini spring rolls are a crispy and flavorful finger food that will add an Asian twist to your party.

  • To make these delicious rolls, start by filling spring roll wrappers with a mixture of shredded vegetables, cooked noodles, and your choice of protein such as shrimp or chicken.
  • Roll the wrappers tightly and seal them with water.
  • Deep fry the spring rolls until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve the mini spring rolls with sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.
  • These bite-sized treats are a budget-friendly and impressive option for parties.
  • Get the mini spring rolls recipe here.
Antipasto Skewers

15. Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto skewers are a colorful and vibrant finger food that will delight your guests.

  • To make these delicious skewers, simply alternate cubes of salami, mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and marinated artichoke hearts on skewers.
  • Drizzle the skewers with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
  • The combination of savory salami, creamy mozzarella, tangy artichokes, and juicy tomatoes is a flavor explosion in every bite.
  • Get the antipasto skewers recipe here.
Mini Crab Cakes

16. Mini Crab Cakes

Mini crab cakes are a luxurious and indulgent finger food that will impress your guests without breaking the bank.

  • To make these delectable treats, start by mixing crabmeat with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning.
  • Shape the mixture into small patties and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve the mini crab cakes with tartar sauce or aioli for dipping.
  • These bite-sized delights are sure to be a hit at any party.
  • Get the mini crab cakes recipe here.
Cheese Balls

17. Cheese Balls

Cheese balls are a retro and nostalgic finger food that will bring back memories of parties from the past.

  • To make these cheesy treats, start by mixing cream cheese, shredded cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and your favorite seasonings in a bowl.
  • Shape the mixture into a ball and roll it in chopped nuts or herbs for added flavor and texture.
  • Serve the cheese ball with crackers or pretzels for dipping.
  • These cheese balls are not only delicious but also a budget-friendly option for parties.
  • Check out the cheese balls recipe here.
Cheese Straws

18. Cheese Straws or Sticks

Cheese straws or sticks are a crispy and cheesy finger food that will satisfy your guests’ cravings.

  • To make these delightful treats, start by mixing flour, grated cheese, butter, salt, and your favorite seasonings in a bowl.
  • Roll the dough into thin strips and bake them until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • These cheese straws or sticks are a versatile option for parties as they can be made in advance and served at room temperature.
  • Check out the cheese straws recipe here.
Bacon-Wrapped Sausages

19. Bacon-Wrapped Sausages

Bacon-wrapped sausages are a savory and indulgent finger food that will be a hit at any party.

  • To make these mouthwatering treats, start by wrapping slices of bacon around cocktail sausages and securing them with toothpicks.
  • Place the bacon-wrapped sausages on a baking sheet and bake them until the bacon is crispy and the sausages are cooked through.
  • These bite-sized delights are a crowd-pleasing option for any budget-friendly party.
  • Get the bacon-wrapped sausage recipe here.
Shrimp and Vegetables Appetizer

20. Shrimp and Vegetables Appetizer

Shrimp and vegetables appetizers are fresh, colorful finger foods that will brighten up your party.

  • To make these vibrant bites, start by tossing peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  • Chop bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes into bite‑sized pieces.
  • Thread the marinated shrimp and vegetables alternately onto small skewers or toothpicks.
  • Grill or broil for 2–3 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and the vegetables are tender‑crisp.
  • These shrimp and vegetables appetizers are a quick and easy option for parties and can be assembled ahead of time.

No-Cook Finger Foods for Parties

Not in the mood to cook? No problem! We have you covered with these no-cook finger foods for parties that are not only delicious but also require minimal effort.

1. Fruit Skewers

  • Fruit skewers are a refreshing and healthy option for parties. These colorful and vibrant skewers are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
  • Simply alternate bite-sized pieces of your favorite fruits such as strawberries, pineapple, grapes, and melon on skewers.

2. Cheese and Crackers

  • Cheese and crackers are a classic and timeless finger food that requires no cooking.
  • Simply arrange a variety of cheeses and crackers on a platter for your guests to enjoy.
  • Add some grapes or sliced apples for a touch of freshness.

3. Veggie Cups

  • Veggie cups are a convenient and nutritious finger food that can be prepared in advance.
  • Simply fill small cups with a variety of sliced vegetables such as carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
  • Serve the veggie cups with your favorite dip such as hummus or ranch dressing.

4. Smoked Salmon Canapes

  • Smoked salmon canapes are an elegant and sophisticated finger food that requires no cooking.
  • Simply top slices of cucumber or crackers with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
  • These bite-sized canapes are sure to impress your guests.

5. Stuffed Olives

  • Stuffed olives are a simple yet flavorful finger food that can be prepared in minutes.
  • Simply stuff pitted olives with your choice of fillings such as feta cheese, garlic, or almonds.
  • These savory treats are a perfect addition to any party spread.

Conclusion

Hosting a party doesn’t have to be expensive.

With our handpicked and budget-friendly selection of the 20 best finger foods for party, you can unleash the flavor and impress your guests without breaking the bank.

From mini sliders to bacon-wrapped sausages, these delectable appetizers are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

And if you’re short on time or don’t feel like cooking, our selection of no-cook finger foods will make party planning a breeze.

So go ahead, unleash the flavor, and enjoy a perfect party with these budget-friendly finger food appetizers.

All the Best!

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