Cheese lovers, rejoice! Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a cozy night in, or just looking to elevate your snack game, these 14 cheese appetizer recipes are here to impress. From puff pastries to crispy bites, these recipes celebrate the irresistible flavors of cheese in all their glory. Get ready to wow your taste buds and your guests with these cheesy delights!

Pimento Cheese

A white plate with pimento cheese spread, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and round crackers arranged neatly—perfect for serving as simple cheese appetizers.
Pimento Cheese. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy, pimento cheese is a Southern classic. Made with cheddar, pimentos, and mayo, it’s perfect with crackers, veggies, or bread.
Get the Recipe: Pimento Cheese

Southern Cheese Straws

Southern Cheese Straws. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Get ready for a crunchy, cheesy treat! Southern cheese straws combine sharp cheddar with a buttery pastry texture for a savory snack with a bit of a spicy twist. These golden bites are amazing on their own or paired with some wine.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cheese Straws

Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart

A plate Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart.
Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

This next-level tart pairs the creamy richness of Brie with the sweet savoriness of caramelized onions. Add a crisp puff pastry base, and you’ve got an appetizer that is equal parts indulgent and elegant.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion and Brie Tart

Pear Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Pear and cranberry pinwheels on a white board.
Pear Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

These flaky pinwheels are bursting with sweetness from fresh pears and a lovely cheesy balance from creamy blue cheese or goat cheese. A sprinkle of nuts adds crunch for a bite-sized treat that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Pear Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Herb and Cheese Puff Pastry Appetizers

Baked pastry rolls with cheese and herbs on a decorative green and white plate.
Herb and Cheese Puff Pastry Appetizers. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Golden and flaky, these puff pastry bites are filled with a mouthwatering mix of fresh herbs and gooey melted cheese. Easy to make and customizable, they’re as delightful to eat as they sound.
Get the Recipe: Herb and Cheese Puff Pastry Appetizers

Baby Chick Mini Cheese Balls

Baby Chick Mini Cheese Balls. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Adorable and creative, these baby chick-shaped cheese balls are coated in a flavorful mix of nuts or breadcrumbs. Creamy and savory inside, they’re as fun to make as they are to snack on!
Get the Recipe: Baby Chick Mini Cheese Balls

Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini with Whipped Feta

Slices of toasted bread topped with roasted tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fresh thyme on a white plate. The tomatoes are glistening, and the thyme adds a touch of green.
Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini with Whipped Feta. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

This crostini layers roasted tomatoes bursting with flavor over a creamy whipped feta spread. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together for a simple yet impressive appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini with Whipped Feta

Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Stack of breaded eggplant slices layered with whipped feta and roasted tomatoes on a decorative plate, with a fork and knife on the side.
Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Layered with roasted eggplant rounds, creamy whipped ricotta, and a burst of marinara, these Napoleons are a showstopper. A sprinkle of fresh herbs makes every bite fresh and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Napoleons with Whipped Ricotta

Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Baked ricotta cheese in a blue casserole dish with sliced bread.
Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Light and creamy baked ricotta takes on a refreshing twist with a hint of zesty lemon. Spread it atop toasted baguette slices for a simple, fresh, and flavorful starter.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

A tray of loaded tater tots topped with Alfredo sauce, scallions, and green onions on a wooden table next to plates and utensils.
Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cheesy, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying, these loaded tots are topped with Philly cheesesteak-inspired toppings. Think creamy provolone, tender steak, and peppers on crispy tot perfection!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Domino’s Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Tots

Baked Brie in a Bowl

A wooden platter with baked brie in a bowl, cheese, crackers, grapes and bread.
Baked Brie in a Bowl. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baked Brie gets a new twist in this warm, gooey bowl of melty cheese goodness. Sweet or savory toppings complete the dish, making it an unforgettable crowd pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie in a Bowl

Crockpot Mexican Street Corn Dip

Bowl of dip with cilantro.
Crockpot Mexican Street Corn Dip. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Packed with creamy cheese, sweet corn, and a hint of spice, this crockpot dip brings all the bold flavors of Mexican street corn to your table. Grab your tortilla chips and dig in!
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Mexican Street Corn Dip

Easy Gougeres

A plate of Gougeres served on a wooden table, with a piece of cheese visible to the side.
Easy Gougeres. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

French gougeres are light, airy cheese puffs that melt in your mouth. Made with Gruyère or cheddar, these little bites deliver cheesy bliss in every single bite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Gougeres

Air Fryer Tortellini

Bowl full of air fryer fried tortellini with cheese sprinkled on top.
Air Fryer Tortellini. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Say hello to crispy, cheesy bites of heaven! Tossed in breadcrumbs and air-fried to golden perfection, these tortellini are ridiculously good with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tortellini

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

Read More About Me

Follow Lucy on social media:

Posted in:

You May Also Like:

Sign up with your email address to receive a 5-day series of Southern Cooking Secrets, followed by weekly emails with recipes and tips. We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *