Crockpot appetizers are the secret to hosting without stress: they cook hands-off and then stay warm for hours on the WARM setting, so you can actually enjoy the party. These 12 are our game day and holiday favorites.
Tip: a small 1.5 to 3-quart slow cooker is perfect for dips.
Quick Picks
- Most popular: Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Easiest: Grape Jelly Meatballs
- Best for holidays: Swedish Meatballs
12 Crockpot Appetizers
1. Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Creamy, spicy and always the first to disappear.
Get the full crockpot buffalo chicken dip recipe
2. Crockpot Frozen Meatballs
Grape jelly, honey BBQ or marinara.
Get the full crockpot frozen meatballs recipe
3. Crockpot Swedish Meatballs
Creamy and cozy for holiday parties.
Get the full crockpot swedish meatballs recipe
4. Crockpot Meatballs 3 Ways
Homemade all-beef meatballs with 5 sauces.
Get the full crockpot meatballs 3 ways recipe
5. Beef Queso Dip
Brown 1 lb ground beef and drain. Add 16 oz cubed processed cheese (such as Velveeta) and 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles. Cook on LOW for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip
Stir together 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 package (10 oz) thawed and squeezed spinach, 1 can (14 oz) chopped artichoke hearts, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup parmesan and 2 cloves garlic. Cook on LOW for 2 hours, stirring once.
7. Beef Cocktail Franks
Combine 2 packages (12 oz) all-beef cocktail franks with 1 cup BBQ sauce and 1/2 cup grape jelly. Cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours.
8. Sweet Chili Chicken Wings
Cook 3 lb (1.4 kg) chicken wings with 1 cup Thai sweet chili sauce and 2 tbsp soy sauce on LOW for 4 hours, until 165°F. Broil on a sheet pan 4 to 5 minutes to crisp, brushing with extra sauce.
9. Italian Beef Sliders
Shredded beef on slider buns with provolone.
Get the full italian beef sliders recipe
10. BBQ Chicken Sliders
Tangy shredded chicken on mini buns with slaw.
Get the full bbq chicken sliders recipe
11. Cranberry Meatballs
Whole cranberry sauce and chili sauce for the holidays.
Get the full cranberry meatballs recipe
12. Crockpot Hot Chocolate
A warm drink station for winter parties.
Get the full crockpot hot chocolate recipe
Party Tips for Crockpot Appetizers
- Use WARM, not LOW. Once hot, switch to WARM to hold food above 140°F.
- Stir every 30 to 60 minutes. Keeps dips smooth and edges from browning.
- Label your crocks. Guests appreciate knowing what is spicy.
- Two-hour rule. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours after the party.
Equipment I Used
- 3-piece ceramic serving bowl set: takes food straight from the crock to the table.
- Wooden cutting board with handle: for slicing and serving right at the table.
- Stainless steel measuring cups and spoons: for sauces and spice blends.
New to slow cooking? The Easy Slow Cooker Recipes guide is a beginner-friendly collection of easy crockpot breakfasts and dinners.
Crockpot Appetizers FAQ
How long can appetizers stay in a crockpot on WARM?
Most dips and meatballs hold well for 2 to 4 hours on WARM, stirring occasionally.
Can I make crockpot dips ahead?
Yes. Mix them in the insert, refrigerate up to 24 hours, and add 30 to 45 minutes to the cook time.
What size slow cooker is best for dips?
A 1.5 to 3-quart slow cooker keeps dips deep enough to stay creamy.
What are the easiest crockpot party foods?
Frozen meatballs with a 2-ingredient sauce and cheese dips.
