Kickstarting any gathering or elevating a regular meal is where appetizers truly shine. Their speed and simplicity mean you can spend more time mingling with your guests and less time stuck in the kitchen. Cream cheese, in particular, is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide range of delectable appetizer recipes. Whether you’re looking for something savory or sweet, we’ve curated 35 mouth-watering cream cheese-based options to satisfy any craving. So don your apron and let the culinary fun begin!
35 Delicious Appetizers with Cream Cheese
Cream Cheese Ranch Roll Ups
A delectable fusion of flavors and textures, Cream Cheese Ranch Roll Ups combine the velvety smoothness of cream cheese with the zesty zip of ranch dressing to create a delightfully addictive snack or appetizer.
Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer
This delectable Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer is a masterclass in harmonious flavors, blending the velvety smoothness of cream cheese with the sweet and spicy nuances of pepper jelly. The result is an irresistible treat that’s sure to delight any palate, making it an ideal choice for social gatherings, whether a casual soiree or a festive holiday party.
Cream Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms
The timeless appeal of stuffed mushrooms lies in their simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature. To create this beloved appetizer, begin by combining softened cream cheese with shredded Parmesan and chopped fresh herbs. Next, carefully fill mushroom caps with the mixture, taking care not to overstuff them. Finally, bake the filled mushrooms until they’re golden brown and aromatic, perfect for serving at your next gathering.
Strawberry Cream Cheese Dip
Indulge in the sweetness of strawberry cream cheese dip, an effortless yet impressive appetizer suitable for any gathering. This delightful treat combines the richness of cream cheese with the freshness of strawberries, creating a taste experience that’s both sweet and savory.
Ham and Cream Cheese Roll Ups
A staple in many social gatherings, ham and cream cheese roll-ups are a delightful and adaptable appetizer that consistently receives rave reviews. Their simplicity, customizability, and suitability for various events – from casual get-togethers to sporting events – make them an ideal choice for any occasion.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Appetizer Bites
Indulge in the harmonious union of tart cranberries and velvety cream cheese as you savor these bite-sized appetizer treats. Perfect for any gathering or celebration, these cranberry cream cheese morsels delight with their intricate balance of sweet and savory notes, offering a sophisticated yet satisfying snacking experience.
Jalapeno Poppers
Infuse your snacks with a spicy kick by preparing jalapeño peppers. Simply cut them in half, carefully removing the seeds to avoid any lingering heat. Next, create a flavorful filling by combining softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits. This indulgent blend is sure to delight taste buds.
Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Chicken
Impress your dinner party guests with this decadent and savory starter. By filling chicken breasts with a blend of creamy cream cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, you’ll create a dish that’s both indulgent and bursting with flavor. Simply bake the mixture until the chicken is tender and succulent, and get ready to receive rave reviews.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip
Indulge in the harmonious union of sweet and savory flavors as this delectable dip brings together the tanginess of cranberry sauce, the richness of cream cheese, and the subtle punch of green onions. Perfect for munching on crackers or pita chips, this irresistible combination is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Cream Cheese and Crab-Stuffed Shrimp
For a touch of sophistication at your next gathering, consider serving this decadent shrimp appetizer. Simply fill cooked shrimp with a rich blend of cream cheese, succulent crab meat, and crunchy breadcrumbs, before baking to a golden crisp.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Transform a classic combination into a show-stopping snack by blending together tender shredded chicken, spicy hot sauce, tangy cream cheese, and creamy ranch dressing. Once the mixture is smooth and well combined, transfer it to a baking dish and let the magic happen. As the flavors meld together in the oven, you’ll be left with a golden-brown, bubbly delight that’s sure to satisfy any crowd. Serve this savory treat with crunchy tortilla chips or crisp celery sticks for a match made in heaven.
Bacon Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
A delightful twist on traditional snacks, Bacon Cream Cheese Roll-Ups offer an irresistible fusion of flavors and textures. The harmonious union of crispy, smoky bacon and creamy cheese creates a truly satisfying bite, making them perfect for both casual gatherings and more formal events.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Indulge in the rich flavors of this delectable dip by combining softened cream cheese with a handful of fresh spinach leaves, canned artichoke hearts, and a generous sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese. Perfectly balanced and irresistibly creamy, this delightful mixture is best enjoyed with crunchy toasted bread or crispy pita chips.
Cream Cheese and Salmon-Stuffed Cucumber Cups
When it comes to creating a delicious and nutritious appetizer, the key is to find a harmonious balance between flavors and textures. One such example is a refreshing combination of creamy, tangy, and savory elements. To achieve this, fill cucumber cups with a delightful mixture of cream cheese, smoked salmon, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Chicken Enchilada Dip
Elevate the traditional chicken dip with a flavorful Tex-Mex spin! Combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, a drizzle of rich enchilada sauce, and a generous sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and let it transform into a golden-brown masterpiece, perfectly bubbly and irresistible.
Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese-Stuffed Dates
Indulge your taste buds with a delightful fusion of flavors in this unique dessert. Begin by filling dates with a generous dollop of cream cheese, allowing the richness to meld with the natural sweetness of the fruit. Next, wrap each date with crispy bacon, creating a satisfying texture contrast that will keep you coming back for more. Finally, pop the treats into the oven until they emerge golden and caramelized, releasing an irresistible aroma that’s sure to tantalize your senses.
Cream Cheese and Sausage-Stuffed Portobello Caps
Indulge in a rich and savory appetizer by filling Portobello mushroom caps with a decadent blend of cream cheese, crumbled ground sausage, and toasted breadcrumbs. The combination yields a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying, with the earthy undertones of the mushrooms perfectly balanced by the savory notes of the sausage. Simply mix your ingredients together, spoon them into the mushroom caps, and bake until tender and golden brown.
Cream Cheese and Avocado Canapes
Elegant cream cheese and avocado canapés are an ideal choice for any gathering, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This effortless yet impressive appetizer is sure to delight guests with its creamy richness and smooth, buttery undertones. The velvety consistency of the avocado perfectly complements the savory notes of the cream cheese, resulting in a satisfying and refreshing culinary experience.
Cream Cheese Bacon Bites
The allure of cream cheese bacon bites lies in their masterful blend of flavors and textures. These irresistible morsels combine the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon with the rich, creamy essence of cream cheese, resulting in a delightfully decadent experience that’s impossible to resist. What’s more, this mouthwatering appetizer requires an astonishingly low level of effort and minimal ingredients, making it a cinch to prepare for any gathering or get-together.
Salami Cream Cheese Roll-Ups
A classic favorite among partygoers, salami cream cheese roll-ups offer a trifecta of benefits: ease of preparation, adaptability to suit individual tastes, and universal appeal. With minimal effort required, these bite-sized morsels are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Cream Cheese Wontons
A culinary delight awaits in the form of cream cheese wontons, where the satisfying crunch of wonton wrappers is perfectly balanced by the velvety smoothness of rich cream cheese. These bite-sized morsels are not only surprisingly easy to prepare but also offer endless opportunities for creative twists and flavors, making them a guaranteed hit with any gathering.
Cream Cheese and Cheddar Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs
Transforming the humble meatball into a rich and indulgent treat, consider incorporating a surprising yet delightful addition – a creamy blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. By stuffing your meatballs with this delectable mixture, you’ll create a savory twist on the classic that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Simply bake until golden brown and juicy for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Cream Cheese-Stuffed Mini Peppers
Transform mini bell peppers into a flavorful treat by cutting them in half and filling the cavity with a creamy concoction. Mix softened cream cheese with an assortment of fresh herbs and add a hint of heat from a dash of hot sauce. Next, place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and let them cook until they’re tender and the cheese is golden brown, bubbly, and utterly irresistible.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Transform zucchinis into a delicious and savory dish by hollowing out their halves and filling them with a mouthwatering blend of cream cheese, ground meat (such as sausage or beef), and diced tomatoes. As you bake them until they’re tender, the flavors will meld together to create a satisfyingly sweet and savory experience.
Cream Cheese and Chive Deviled Eggs
Elevate the humble deviled egg by incorporating cream cheese and chives into the traditional filling. This simple yet effective modification yields a richer, more complex flavor profile with a subtle tanginess that will delight your taste buds.
Cream Cheese and Olive Tapenade Crostini
Indulge in the rich flavors by spreading a generous layer of creamy cream cheese onto crispy, toasted baguette slices. For an added depth of flavor, pair it with a spoonful of your own homemade olive tapenade or opt for a store-bought variety. The velvety smoothness of the cream cheese and the savory nuances of the tapenade come together in perfect harmony, making for a delightful snack.
Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transforming mini bell peppers into an indulgent treat, start by filling them with a rich blend of cream cheese and smoked salmon. To add an extra burst of freshness, top each pepper with a sprig of crisp, green dill.
Cream Cheese-Stuffed Pickles
For a unique snack or appetizer, start by hollowing out large dill pickles. Next, fill the cavity with a generous amount of softened cream cheese. Once you’ve achieved the perfect pickle-to-cheese ratio, slice the filled pickles into bite-sized rounds.
Cream Cheese and Pesto-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Transform cherry tomatoes by hollowing out their centers and filling them with a harmonious blend of tangy cream cheese and savory pesto. The creamy texture of the cheese pairs perfectly with the herbaceous flavor of the pesto, creating a delightful contrast that will elevate your snacks or appetizers to the next level.
Cream Cheese and Cranberry Stuffed Crescent Rolls
To create a sweet and savory treat, start by combining equal parts of cream cheese and cranberry sauce in a harmonious blend. Next, take crescent roll dough and spread the mixture evenly across its surface. Roll the dough into tight cylinders, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed within. Finally, place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake until they reach a golden brown hue, releasing a fragrant aroma that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Cream Cheese and Scallion-Stuffed Cucumber Cups
To transform humble cucumbers into elegant appetizers, start by carefully hollowing out the centers to create small cups. Next, combine softened cream cheese with finely chopped scallions in a bowl until well mixed. Then, fill each cucumber cup with the flavorful mixture, allowing the creamy goodness to seep into every nook and cranny.
Cream Cheese-Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp
Envelop succulent shrimp with a rich layer of cream cheese, then carefully wrap each one in a strip of savory bacon. Next, place the bundles in the oven and allow them to bake until the bacon reaches a satisfying crispiness and the shrimp are cooked through.
Cream Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform the humble mushroom cap into a gourmet delight by filling it with a rich and flavorful mixture of softened cream cheese, carefully combined with finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes. The creamy texture and tangy tomato flavor meld together to create a truly exceptional accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Cream Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Pinwheels
Transforming humble ingredients into a delightful snack or appetizer, consider combining creamy cream cheese with the sweetness of roasted red peppers. Simply spread a layer of the cheese mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of finely chopped pepper. Roll the tortilla up tightly, then slice it into bite-sized pinwheels perfect for munching on the go.
Cream Cheese Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
To take your chicken meatballs to the next level, try incorporating a creamy surprise in the center. Mix softened cream cheese with crumbled blue cheese for a rich and savory filling. Once formed into balls, bake until cooked through before serving with a tangy buffalo sauce. The combination of textures and flavors will surely delight.When it comes to planning a gathering or simply elevating your daily meals, these indulgent appetizers are sure to please even the most discerning palates. From familiar favorites like stuffed mushrooms to innovative twists on classic recipes, there’s an option for every taste and preference. So put on your chef’s hat, get creative in the kitchen, and let the flavors unfold. Your guests – and your taste buds – will be grateful.