When it comes to hosting a party, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out what to serve your guests. As someone who loves entertaining, I have learned that the key to a successful party is having delicious food that can be prepared ahead of time. That’s why I have put together this list of 21 make-ahead party food platters for a crowd ideas. These recipes are not only easy to make in advance, but they are also sure to impress your guests. From savory appetizers to sweet treats, there is something for everyone on this list. So, let’s get started and make your next party a hit with these delicious make-ahead dishes!
Antipasto Platter
One of my go-to party food platters is an antipasto platter. This Italian-inspired spread is perfect for a crowd, as it features a variety of meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. To make it ahead of time, simply assemble the ingredients on a large platter and cover it with plastic wrap. When it’s time to serve, just uncover and watch your guests dig in!
Fruit and Cheese Board
For a lighter option, a fruit and cheese board is always a hit at parties. I like to include a variety of fruits, such as grapes, berries, and sliced apples, along with an assortment of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and gouda. To make this platter ahead of time, just slice the fruits and cheeses and arrange them on a board. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.
Charcuterie Board
If you’re looking for a more sophisticated option, a charcuterie board is the way to go. This platter typically includes a selection of cured meats, pates, and artisanal breads. To make it ahead of time, arrange the meats and breads on a board and cover with plastic wrap. Add the pates just before serving to keep them fresh.
Veggie Platter with Hummus
For a healthier option, a veggie platter with hummus is a great choice. I like to include a variety of colorful vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, along with a creamy hummus dip. To make this platter ahead of time, wash and chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container. Just before serving, arrange them on a platter with the hummus in the center.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a simple but delicious party food option. These skewers feature cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze. To make them ahead of time, assemble the skewers and store them in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, just take them out and watch your guests enjoy this classic Italian appetizer.
Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are a great make-ahead party food option that can be customized to suit your guests’ preferences. I like to make a variety of flavors, such as spinach and feta, bacon and cheddar, and mushroom and gruyere. To make them ahead of time, bake the quiches and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them in the oven and enjoy!
Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are always a crowd-pleaser at parties. These savory bites are filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and sometimes sausage. To make them ahead of time, stuff the mushrooms and store them in the refrigerator. Just before serving, bake them in the oven until they are golden brown and bubbly.
Shrimp Cocktail
For a more elegant party food option, shrimp cocktail is a classic choice. I like to serve chilled shrimp with a tangy cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. To make this dish ahead of time, cook and chill the shrimp and store them in the refrigerator. Just before serving, arrange them on a platter with the cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
Meatball Sliders
Meatball sliders are a fun and hearty party food option that can be made ahead of time. I like to make mini meatballs and serve them on slider buns with marinara sauce and melted cheese. To make them ahead of time, cook the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator. Just before serving, reheat the meatballs in the marinara sauce and assemble the sliders.
Chicken Satay Skewers
Chicken satay skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-eat party food option that can be made ahead of time. I like to marinate chicken strips in a blend of spices and coconut milk before threading them onto skewers and grilling them. To make them ahead of time, marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the skewers and watch your guests enjoy this tasty appetizer.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach artichoke dip is a creamy and indulgent party food option that can be made ahead of time. I like to combine spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and parmesan for a rich and flavorful dip. To make it ahead of time, prepare the dip and store it in the refrigerator. Just before serving, reheat the dip in the oven until it is warm and bubbly.
Mini Taco Cups
Mini taco cups are a fun and flavorful party food option that can be made ahead of time. I like to fill mini tortilla cups with seasoned ground beef, cheese, salsa, and sour cream. To make them ahead of time, bake the taco cups and store them in the refrigerator. Just before serving, reheat them in the oven and top with your favorite taco toppings.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
For a sweet and elegant party food option, chocolate-covered strawberries are always a hit. I like to dip ripe strawberries in melted chocolate and let them set before serving. To make them ahead of time, dip the strawberries and store them in the refrigerator. Just before serving, take them out and watch your guests enjoy this decadent dessert.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hosting a party can be a lot of work, but with these make-ahead party food platters for a crowd ideas, you can make it a breeze. From savory appetizers to sweet treats, there is something for everyone on this list. So, next time you’re planning a party, be sure to try out some of these delicious make-ahead dishes and impress your guests with your culinary skills. Cheers to a successful and stress-free party!