Name: Thanksgiving Hors d'Oeuvres Appetizers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 sheets phyllo dough; 4 tablespoons melted butter; 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta; 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Looking to impress your guests before the turkey even hits the table? These Thanksgiving Hors d’Oeuvres Appetizers are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Imagine golden phyllo cups brimming with creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs—they’re warm, savory, and gone in seconds. This bite-sized indulgence delivers all the comfort of the holiday season in one delicious crunch.

Perfect for kicking off your Thanksgiving feast or snacking as the parade rolls on, these little cups are simple to make yet taste gourmet. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or an intimate dinner, these appetizers strike the perfect balance between festive and fuss-free. And yes, you can absolutely make them ahead of time, giving you more room to breathe (and sip on that wine).

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making these Thanksgiving Hors d’Oeuvres is a breeze when you have the right tools. Here’s what you need and why they matter:

Mini Muffin Tin: This is the hero for shaping and baking the phyllo cups. It gives structure and prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy.
Pastry Brush: Essential for gently brushing butter between layers of phyllo dough. This helps the cups bake up crisp and golden.
Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: You’ll need one to cut the phyllo sheets evenly into squares without tearing.
Mixing Bowl: Where all your creamy cheese filling magic happens. Choose a medium size for easy stirring.
Oven: These cups bake quickly at a high temperature, ensuring the phyllo gets crisp while the filling warms up to oozy perfection.

Prepping everything in advance—including pre-cutting your phyllo and precooking your bacon—will streamline your process and let you assemble like a pro.

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Hors d’Oeuvres Appetizers

Phyllo Dough Sheets: These delicate, flaky layers bake into crisp, golden shells that cradle the filling.
Melted Butter: Brushed between phyllo layers, butter adds flavor and essential crispness.
Cooked Bacon Crumbles: Smoky, salty bacon brings depth and crunch.
Cream Cheese: The creamy base of the filling, providing a rich, velvety texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the cream cheese for gooey, savory goodness.
Crumbled Blue Cheese or Feta: Adds a tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness.
Chopped Chives or Green Onions: For a pop of freshness and color.
Salt & Pepper: Just a pinch to balance the flavors.

How To Make the Thanksgiving Hors d’Oeuvres Appetizers

Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Cups

Carefully unroll and layer the phyllo dough sheets, brushing melted butter between each layer. Cut into squares large enough to fit into mini muffin tin wells. Press the layered squares into each well to form a cup.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, a bit of crumbled blue cheese or feta, chopped chives, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cups

Spoon the cheese mixture into each phyllo cup, filling just to the top. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and a few more chives.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo edges are golden brown and crisp. The cheese filling should be bubbly and hot.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Let them cool slightly before removing from the tin. Serve warm on a festive platter garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Serving and Storing These Appetizers

These phyllo cup appetizers are best served warm, straight from the oven when the filling is melty and the shells are at peak crispiness. Arrange them on a tray lined with fresh herbs or a festive napkin to elevate the presentation.

If you’re planning ahead, you can fully assemble the cups and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes at 350°F to restore that crisp edge. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the phyllo soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cups and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just bake before serving for best texture.

Can I freeze these appetizers?

While phyllo doesn’t always freeze well after baking, you can freeze the assembled (unbaked) cups in a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What can I use instead of blue cheese?

Feta or goat cheese both work well. They provide a tangy contrast without being overpowering.

Are these gluten-free?

Traditional phyllo dough contains gluten, but there are gluten-free versions available at specialty stores.

Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo?

You could, but it will be heavier and more bready. Phyllo gives a delicate crunch that’s perfect for finger food.

Do I have to use a mini muffin tin?

It’s highly recommended for shaping, but if you don’t have one, you can try forming the cups in a regular muffin tin and adjusting the baking time slightly.

Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you’re building out a full Thanksgiving spread or just looking for more crowd-pleasers, don’t miss these gems:

The ultra-craveable Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers combine cheese, bacon, and crunch in every bite.
For a creamy, zesty dip, the Creamy Boat Dip Rotel Ranch is a great make-ahead option.
Try the bite-sized Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a sweet twist.
If you love handheld treats, the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls bring bold flavor to the appetizer table.
And for a Southern classic with a punch, Southern Cornbread Poppers are savory little bites with heat.

For more daily appetizer inspiration and festive holiday treats, follow my Pinterest board at LadyPlate on Pinterest.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your appetizer or holiday boards for later. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go with blue cheese or feta? Did you mix in anything unexpected? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious to see your creative takes on these holiday bites.

Thanksgiving Hors d’Oeuvres Appetizers

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Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 mini cups

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Description

These Thanksgiving Hors d’Oeuvres Appetizers feature golden phyllo cups filled with a rich blend of cheeses, smoky bacon, and fresh herbs. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for impressing guests before the main feast begins.