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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    Published: Dec 21, 2020 · Modified: Mar 30, 2022 by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · 15 Comments

    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    The best cream cheese appetizers are here no matter what your taste or diet is.  There is something for everyone to love with these homemade hor d'oeuvres.  These recipes offer a variety that includes those with meat, for vegetarians, great dips, hearty cheese balls, and all are killer recipes.   Both cold or hot, spicy or savory, recipes with cream cheese are shared here by some of the best food bloggers.

    If you need a recipe for the next potluck, Super Bowl party, holiday (check out the reindeer Christmas cheeseball below) these are the from-scratch cream cheese appetizer recipes you have been looking for.  I have included several that are perfect for make-ahead, healthy, or simple appetizers so you can enjoy every cream cheese bite and not have to cook or miss the fun during your next get-together.  I hope you find something new to make with cream cheese.   If you buy in bulk and wonder CAN YOU FREEZE CREAM CHEESE, I have all you need to know on the blog too.

    Search the categories below to find exactly what you are looking for:

    APPETIZERS BY THE SHORT ORDER COOK

    APPETIZERS THAT ARE FUN AND UNIQUE

    APPETIZERS WITH MEAT

    APPETIZERS FOR VEGETARIANS

    APPETIZER CHEESE BALLS OR DIPS

    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers 4 image collage

    APPETIZERS BY THE SHORT ORDER COOK

    The following appetizers are some of my favorites from the blog.  Cream cheese is an ingredient we eat often since it is tasty, versatile, and it goes a long way for a budget price. I cook with full-fat Philadelphia cream cheese in dips, with meat rolled up, and more, since most of the time since I try and eat a low-carb diet.

    I hope you try all these cream cheese appetizers & first courses. This list will grow as I add more to the blog so come back often to see what is new.

    Southern Pimento Cheese
    Pimento (pimiento) Cheese is a true Southern staple for any get-together. This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser and my version has only a bit of mayo but all the creaminess. This easy appetizer is wonderful for keto, low-carb, and gluten-free diets.
    Check out this recipe
    Southern Pimento Cheese
    Shishito Peppers with Cream Cheese & Bacon
    Shishito Peppers are a mild pepper blistered in a pan and then tossed with cream cheese and bacon.
    Check out this recipe
    Shishito Peppers with Cream Cheese & Bacon
    Holiday Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread
    Holiday appetizer with bright tangy cranberry sauce and a three-cheese spread.
    Check out this recipe
    HOLIDAY CRANBERRY CHEESE SPREAD plated
    Instant Pot Cream of Celery Soup
    For the best homemade cream of celery soup, make it in the Instant Pot. It is a creamy, rich, and comforting recipe. As a bonus, this cream of celery soup is keto, gluten-free, grain-free, & low-carb.   
    Check out this recipe
    Instant Pot Cream of Celery Soup featured overhead of bowl full of soup topped with parsley sprig and crackers to the side and a spoon on the right all on top a green cloth napkin recipe card image
    Homemade Low-Carb Sausage Balls
    These homemade sausage balls are an easy low-carb recipe great for a keto breakfast, brunch, appetizer, or snack.  They are full of flavor, tender, simple, and packed with protein while also being gluten-free.
    Check out this recipe
    Homemade Low-Carb Sausage Balls featured overhead close up
    Keto Fat Head Rolls
    Homemade soft keto rolls using almond flour are not just low carb (4 net carbs each!) but will please any appetite. They are sturdy enough for use as bread for sandwiches, buns for hamburgers, and great plain.
    Check out this recipe
    Keto Fat Head Rolls plated

    APPETIZERS BY THE BEST FOOD BLOGGERS

    APPETIZERS THAT ARE FUN AND UNIQUE

    So many of the best cream cheese appetizers are just what you need for the next holiday, party, or fancy dinner at home.   These include wonderful recipes for crescent rolls, party pinwheels, and more.

    Cranberry Cream Cheese Pinwheels
    These cream cheese pinwheels offer a unique spin on party pinwheels. The cranberries provide a tangy twist. I think they are perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
    Check out this recipe
    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers Dec 2020 cranberry-cream-cheese-pinwheels thegiftedgabber
    Pesto Turkey Pinwheels
    Loaded with fresh ingredients, these Pesto Turkey Pinwheels are perfect for a simple lunch, party platter, or even a snack. Smoked provolone pairs well with this turkey and wrapped in a pesto cream cheese mixture that you will be coming back for more again and again!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 Pesto-Turkey-Pinwheels-lemonsandzest
    Chili Cheese Dog Dip
    This Chili Cheese Dog Dip combines two delicious appetizers “Pigs in a Blanket” and “Chili Cheese Dip” to provide classic Chili Cheese Dog Flavors all on one plate! A crowd-pleasing appetizer!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 chili cheesedog carefreemermaid
    Smoked Salmon Pate
    This smoked salmon pate made with poached salmon, cream cheese, and greek yogurt can be made ahead of time. Serve with veggies and crackers!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 smoked-salmon-pate-mrsjoneskitchen

    APPETIZERS WITH MEAT

    These cream cheese appetizers offer a variety of meats including bacon, chicken, salami, sausage, and seafood like shrimp and tuna. They are all easy, tasty, and packed with protein.  Many of these appetizers with cream cheese are also low-carb, gluten-free, or keto-friendly.

    Shrimp Ragoon Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers
    This cheesy Shrimp Stuffed Mini Bell Pepper appetizer is a party favorite! Stuffed with sweet shrimp, rich cream cheese, and tasty Gouda, your guests will gobble these up.
    Check out this recipe
    Best Cream Cheese Appetizer Dec 2020 shrimp-rangoon-stuffed-mini-bell-peppers-appetizer-Babaganosh
    Easy Chicken Phyllo Cups
    These easy chicken phyllo cup appetizers are a perfect addition to any party! These are loaded with a delicious chicken, mushroom, and spinach mixture that wows your tastebuds!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 Chicken-Spinach-Mushroom-Phyllo-Cups-poweredbymom
    Salami Cornucopia
    Salami rollups with cream cheese and fresh herbs are easy to make and fun to serve! Try these cream cheese roll-ups with Genoa salami in cornucopia for a fun finger food idea on your next meat and cheese tray.
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 Cornucopia-Salami-Rollups-with-Cream-Cheese-ericasrecipes
    Stuffed Cucumber Cups
    Stuffed Cucumber Cups are a quick and easy, light appetizer that is perfect for any occasion!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 cucumber21 momstestkitchen

    APPETIZERS FOR VEGETARIANS

    These appetizers offer a variety of the best recipes for vegetarians.  Whether you want a cream cheese appetizer with cauliflower, mushrooms, or other ingredients, there is something to love here.  Several are quick and great for a starter, snack, or even a side dish.

    Buffalo Cauliflower Dip in a Bread Bowl
    Buffalo Cauliflower Dip is a vegetarian alternative to traditional buffalo chicken dip. Serve as an appetizer at parties or Sunday game day!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 cauliflowrer buffalo dip tastyoven
    Pan Fried Cheese Rangoons
    Pan-fried rangoons that are perfectly crispy and delicious!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 pan fried crab ragoon rachelcraftedlife
    Green Goddess Stuffed Mushroom Caps
    Herby, cheesy, and with a touch of garlic, these Green Goddess Stuffed Mushrooms are always gobbled up!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 closeup-green goddess mushrooms ketocookingwins
    Cranberry Salsa and Cream Cheese
    Cranberry salsa tastes even better when poured over a warm block of cream cheese! This salsa features fresh ingredients and can be made in a blender!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 Cranberry-Salsa-and-Cream-Cheese findingzest
    Cream Cheese Stuffed Olives
    Cream Cheese Stuffed Olives Marinated in Lemon-Infused Olive Oil: Impressive and easy 10-minute appetizer made with only 4 ingredients!
    Check out this recipe

    APPETIZERS CHEESE BALLS OR DIPS

    These cheese ball and cheese dip recipes all include some cream cheese and so many amazing different ingredients. You are bound to find a few new cream cheese appetizers from this list that you will want to make today.   Get your favorite crackers, some crudite, and get ready to enjoy the best cheese ball or cheese dip recipes you can find.

    Fresh Spinach Artichoke Dip with Goat Cheese & Leeks
    This is not your ordinary spinach dip. The tangy goat cheese, leeks, and fresh ingredients elevate this classic dip to a new amazing level.
    Check out this recipe
    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers Dec 2020 Goat-Cheese-Spinach-Artichoke-Dip-w-Leeks-taoofspice.com
    Neiman Marcus Dip
    This Neiman Marcus Dip is a holiday classic, and pairs great with crackers. Loaded with bacon, cheese and almonds plus ready in under 10 minutes.
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 Neiman-Marcus-Dip-Recipe-erhardtseat
    Easy Layered Salsa Dip
    Easy and only 5 ingredients - wow! This cream cheese salsa dip is perfect for parties or watching a game.
    Check out this recipe
    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers Dec 2020 cream-cheese-salsa-dip-aseasonedgreeting
    Sausage Cream Cheese Dip
    A creamy sausage dip flavored with green onion, garlic, and green chiles. This dip is super easy to make, with only 5 ingredients!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 Bowl-of-sausage-cream-cheese-dip nibbleanddine
    Everything Bagel Cheese Ball (Christmas Decorated)
    This Everything Bagel cheese ball is budget-friendly and serves a crowd. Decorate to look like a reindeer for the holidays or leave plain for any occasion. Make up to a week in advance for stress-free party prep!
    Check out this recipe
    Best Sour Cream Appetizers Dec 2020 everythingbagelcheeseball feastforfraction
    Pineapple Cheese Ball
    Pineapple Cheese Ball is always a big hit with family and friends. The crushed pineapple adds an unexpected twist to this delicious appetizer.
    Check out this recipe
    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers Dec 2020 pineapplecheeseball-anallievent

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    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers PIN

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    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers 4 image collage

    Best Cream Cheese Appetizers

    Angela
    All the quick, easy, and elegant appetizers you can make are listed here. The best food bloggers share recipes for appetizers using cream cheese. There are savory dips, cheese balls, finger foods, and more.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 0 mins
    Course Appetizer
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4

    Ingredients
      

    TRY ONE OR MORE OF THESE TASTY CREAM CHEESE APPETIZERS

    • Shishito peppers w Cream cheese & Bacon
    • Pimento Cheese
    • Pesto Turkey Pinwheels
    • Shrimp Ragoon
    • Sausage Balls
    • Salami Cornucopia
    • Buffalo Cauliflower Dip
    • Christmas Cheese Ball

    Instructions
     

    • Make 1 or more of these yummy appetizers.
    • Enjoy
    Keyword appetizer, bites, cheese, dairy, dip, easy, finger food, holiday, party, quick, small plate, spreads

    Nutritional information for these recipes may be found on each individual listing. For more information on the health benefits and nutrition facts, check out Is Cream Cheese Healthy? 

    Did you make this The Short Order Cook Recipe?

    Tag @theshortordercookblog (Instagram & Facebook) or @shortorder_cook (Twitter). 

    I would love to see your latest creations and kitchen adventures.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Megan says

      December 21, 2020 at 3:04 pm

      This post came into my life at the perfect time! I love cream cheese, and I'm hosting Christmas Eve dinner! Those reindeer balls look so fun!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 21, 2020 at 8:57 pm

        Great, Megan. It is a pretty cute holiday cheese ball recipe - enjoy.

        Reply
    2. Barbara says

      December 21, 2020 at 8:32 pm

      Each recipe looks so good and sounds so great!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 21, 2020 at 8:57 pm

        Thank you so much and I hope you try a few and let me know what you think.

        Reply
    3. Jennifer says

      December 22, 2020 at 5:04 am

      So many choices. I think I'll start with the turkey pinwheels

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 22, 2020 at 8:13 am

        Yes so many great recipes, I am not sure where to start either but the kids want to make the salami one first!

        Reply
    4. Justine says

      December 22, 2020 at 7:27 am

      These all sound amazing. I wish I wasn’t allergic to cream cheese. I miss it so very much!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 22, 2020 at 8:13 am

        Oh man but thanks for checking out the list - can you get something like vegan cream cheese that maybe you can have?

        Reply
        • Caroline Parrott says

          December 30, 2020 at 8:35 am

          I have seen some non dairy cashew "cheese" spread that might work well."

          Reply
    5. Stephanie Veach says

      December 22, 2020 at 8:05 am

      Yum! These look delicious. Will definitely have to try some of these in the near future.

      Reply
    6. Ashley Pacheco says

      December 22, 2020 at 7:32 pm

      I love cream cheese a little too much! This is timely... I was thinking just the other day how hard it would be to make home made rangoons. I'll have to try these!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        December 23, 2020 at 9:40 am

        Great, I hope you enjoy the rangoons and the other cream cheese appetizer recipes.

        Reply
    7. Elaina says

      December 23, 2020 at 12:59 pm

      Do many to choose from. I do love cranberry and cream cheese anything, so yummy.

      Reply
    8. KENDRA says

      December 23, 2020 at 12:59 pm

      These cream cheese appetizers all sound incredible! I really want to try those Green Goddess Stuffed Mushrooms. Yum!

      Reply
    9. Marianne says

      December 26, 2020 at 5:54 am

      So many delicious recipes! I have tried versions of a couple of them... but there are definitely some on this list that my family would LOVE! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply

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    Hi, I'm Angela I’m Angela, a petite mom that loves to cook, eat and explore all things food. I have been cooking since I could pull up a stool to finally reach the counter. I still rely on my trusty stool every day. I am a former personal chef turned blogger that enjoys cooking with and for my family, traveling to try new cuisine, and constantly learning about food, drink, & how it touches all our lives.

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