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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    Updated: Jul 5, 2023 · Published: Apr 8, 2023 · by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    50 Party Food & Drink Recipe Ideas

    Jump to Recipe

    Hosting a party can be daunting and a lot of work but is so much fun and worth it in the end.  Planning a party menu ahead of time is the most important thing to ensure your event is a success and you also get to enjoy the fun, food, drink, & your guests.  This list of party ideas includes all the best food and drink recipe ideas you will ever need.

    Party Food & Drink Ideas PN1 4 recipe images moscow mule teriyaki chicken on a stick apple hand pies and watermelon salsa

    Whether your celebration is a milestone or a holiday such as Halloween, Easter, Christmas, or New Year's Eve, all these recipes are the best food and drink ideas for parties. Here is everything from watermelon salsa to wings & desserts like homemade Snickers bars - oh my!

    Enjoy the party and do not be stuck in the kitchen when you make these recipes. They are great for all sorts of occasions such as;

    • After-work happy hour or cocktail parties
    • Social events
    • Fundraisers
    • BBQs with neighbors
    • Dinner with friends & family
    • Birthday parties
    • Anniversary or engagement parties
    • Mother's or Father's Day
    • Baby or wedding showers
    • Retirement parties
    • every party!

    If you are hosting a dinner party for Sunday supper, try some of my favorite recipes for Sunday Dinner. They are comfort foods at their best.

    Jump to:
    • Easy Food & Drink Must-Have Recipes
    • Party Cocktail Recipes
    • Party Finger-Food Recipes
    • Healthy Party Recipes with Protein & Vegetables
    • Party Sweet Drinks & Desserts
    • Breakfast or Brunch Party & Drink Ideas
    • PIN FOR SAFEKEEPING & SHARING!
    • 50 Party Food & Drink Recipe Ideas

    Easy Food & Drink Must-Have Recipes

    A party does not have to be difficult to plan and a lot of work. Many of these recipes are easy to make. In fact, I have included frozen party food ideas that you can have ready in minutes especially if you have an air fryer. If you are having a baby shower check out Blue Food & Drink Ideas or Pink Food & Drink Ideas.

    For a great list of recipes to make and serve at parties, all these party foods and drinks are the best ideas.  There is a combination of easy & elegant party recipes to ensure your next celebration has the best food and drink for guests. All are yummy and simple, and some are make-ahead recipes that are the best for cooking and baking for the next gathering.

    Party Cocktail Recipes

    Here are the best cocktail recipes for your next party.  There are tequila, rum, and vodka drinks to serve at your party.  One includes making pitchers of a cocktail so you have plenty to keep pouring and the party cheer going with some fresh mojitos. Also, try this list of great vodka martini recipes.

    Pina Colada on the Rocks
    This tropical cocktail is a shaken, not blended, pina colada on the rocks. With creamy coconut and pineapple that classic pina colada taste over ice is just the recipe for a taste of summer. 
    Pina Colada on the Rocks
    Two pina colada drinks in glasses with crushed ice.
    Classic Mojitos by the Pitcher
    Making mojitos by the pitcher with limes and mint is the perfect easy recipe for a crowd.
    Classic Mojitos by the Pitcher
    Classic Mojitos by the Pitcher
    TEQUILA SUNRISE COCKTAIL: TWO UNIQUE TWISTS ON A CLASSIC
    A gorgeous colorful cocktail with tequila, citrus juices, and grenadine.
    TEQUILA SUNRISE COCKTAIL: TWO UNIQUE TWISTS ON A CLASSIC
    Tequila Sunrise Cocktail
    Texas Ranch Water (keto & low-calorie)
    Texas ranch water is a refreshing 3-ingredient cocktail recipe. Ranch water is simply the easiest tequila cocktail you can make at home. Its the best low-carb & light cocktail for summer.
    Texas Ranch Water
    Texas Ranch Water two glasses with lime wedges.
    Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule
    A refreshing and spicy twist on a Moscow Mule that includes jalapenos and basil. A wonderful vodka cocktail that is an easy recipe and a crowd-pleaser.
    Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule
    spicy jalapeno moscow mule with basil garnish in copper mugs
    Best Pomegranate Moscow Mule
    The best pomegranate Moscow mule recipe is easy, pretty, refreshing, and tastes yummy. A perfect combo of vodka, ginger beer, and juices.
    Best Pomegranate Moscow Mule
    Best Pomegranate Moscow Mule featured close up
    Purple Passion Cocktail
    The 80s classic Purple Passion is back with vodka and all the grape goodness from the past.
    Purple Passion Cocktail
    Two Purple Passions
    Candy Corn Martini
    Sweet vodka cocktail that looks like just candy corn and is the ideal Halloween adult treat!
    Candy Corn Martini
    Candy Corn Martini two glasses
    Hocus Pocus Cocktail
    For a tasty and spooky Halloween-themed alcoholic drink try a Hocus Pocus Cocktail. This fun drink is sweet, spiced, & finished with dry ice for an eerie touch. This rum punch martini is just perfect to sip while watching your favorite Halloween movies or served at a costume party for the ultimate adult treat.
    Hocus Pocus Cocktail
    Two martini glasses filled with Hocus Pocus cocktails for Halloween.
    Watermelon Mint Martini
    Refreshing and easy vodka cocktail with fresh watermelon, mint, and lemon juice. This delicious recipe is the ultimate summer martini.
    Watermelon Mint Martini
    Watermelon Mint Martini - The Short Order Cook
    St Patrick's Day Pudding Shots
    Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with pistachio and Irish cream liqueur pudding shots - Cheers! A fun and easy pudding shot recipe great for parties and the green color is great also for Christmas.
    St Patrick's Day Pudding Shots
    St Patrick's Day Pudding Shots
    Dry Ice Cocktails
    The best dry ice cocktail recipe ideas are shared here. These drinks will be great for a creepy fun Halloween party. The dry ice effects are a special party trick for a spooky theme.
    Dry Ice Cocktails PN1 4 images of cocktails including midori green two that are ruby red and a black potion all with dry ice smoking on our around them

    Party Finger-Food Recipes

    All of these party finger foods are budget-friendly and easy to make.  They are make-ahead recipes that are great for a party, dinner appetizers, or snacks to put out for your guests. Make one or more of these recipes for your party and you will have time to enjoy your guests. There are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free recipe ideas here to make for the next big party or event.

    Roast Beef, Cheddar, & Caramelized Onion Sliders
    These oven-baked roast beef & cheddar sliders on Hawaiian rolls are a yummy appetizer, small bite, or meal. Sliced beef steak, cheddar cheese, & sweet caramelized onions combine for an easy slider sandwich recipe. Great for parties, game day, Super Bowl, birthdays, lunch, dinner, or snack.
    Roast Beef, Cheddar & Caramelized Onion Sliders
    Sliders with roast beef and cheddar plated and ready to eat.
    Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos with Wontons
    The most amazing ahi tuna poke nachos with wontons are easier to make at home than you ever imagined. They are spicy, crunchy, salty, & irresistible. A copycat recipe similar to the ahi nachos at Yardhouse.
    Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos
    Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos with Wontons Recipe Card image of a plate stacked high ready to eat.
    Air Fryer Shishito Peppers
    Air fryer shishito peppers char up with crunchy blistered skins for so much flavor. In minutes you have one of the best appetizers. For a sweet, spicy, and smoky bite there is nothing more simple yet delicious as these peppers.
    Air Fryer Shishito Peppers
    Air Fryer Shishito Peppers recipe card plate ready to eat with dip
    Dill PIckle Deviled Eggs
    Creamy and tangy deviled eggs are party-perfect food and a crowd-pleasing appetizer. This easy recipe is keto, low-carb, gluten-free, and diabetic too. Great for cookouts, BBQs, game day, Super Bowl, & buffets.
    Dill PIckle Deviled Eggs
    party perfect deviled eggs
    Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta
    This traditional bruschetta combines the perfect flavors of fresh Roma tomatoes, sweet basil, salty capers, and pungent garlic.
    Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta
    Easy Tomato Basil Bruschetta The Short Order Cook
    Caprese Sliders
    These oven-baked Caprese sliders on Hawaiian rolls are a yummy appetizer, small bite, snack, or meal. Fresh tomatoes, pesto, & mozzarella combine for an easy Italian sandwich recipe. The perfect vegetarian recipe for parties, holidays, & game day.
    Caprese Sliders
    Stacked caprese sliders on a plate.
    Taralli Pugliesi - Italian Black Pepper Cookies
    Taralli are wonderful baked wheat flour rings that are a classic snack in Italy.  Taralli are savory bites that are crispy on the outside and have flaky inside.  The taste is a wonderful combination of floral olive oil and spicy black pepper with every nibble.
    Taralli Pugliesi - Italian Black Pepper Cookies
    Taralli - Italian Pepper Cookies overhead plated with a red napkin
    Air Fryer Frozen Potstickers
    For an easy foolproof method for cooking frozen potstickers in the air fryer, try this recipe. They will be hot on the inside and crispy on the outside. Air frying is an easy way to cook dumplings, gyoza, mandu, and any pork, shrimp, vegetarian, or chicken potsticker.
    Air Fryer Frozen Potstickers
    Air Fryer Frozen Potstickers featured plated with soy dipping sauce
    Furikake Snack Mix
    The perfect sweet, savory, salty, and crunchy snack mix. The umami flavors of the furikake seasoning make this way better than your ordinary party or Chex mix. Great for parties, game day, & Lunar New Year.
    Furikake Snack Mix
    Bowl of sweet and salty furikake party mix with crackers and popcorn.
    Watermelon Pico de Gallo (salsa)
    Sweet and spicy watermelon pico de gallo is the summer salsa great with chips or on seafood tacos.
    Watermelon Salsa
    watermelon pico de gallo in a bowl with chips on the side.
    Deep-Fried Beer-Battered Onion Rings
    Onion rings are a classic fried treat that is so easy to make homemade. This beer-battered recipe for onion rings is deep-fried until crispy & crunchy. It's the perfect side dish, snack, or appetizer.
    Homemade Beer-Battered Onion Rings
    Homemade Beer-Battered Onion Rings
    Air Fryer Frozen Crinkle French Fries
    For an easy foolproof method for cooking frozen crinkle-cut french fries in the air fryer, try this recipe. They will be hot, crispy, and yummy with just the right amount of time to cook in the air fryer. Plus delicious dips and seasonings to add for the best air fryer french fries.
    Air Fryer Frozen Crinkle French Fries
    Air Fryer Frozen Crinkle French Fries recipe card plate with ketchup ready to eat
    Deep-Fried Sweet Potato Fries
    Homemade deep-fried sweet potato fries are a quick and easy family favorite recipe. This fantastic method to deep fry & season them makes the best appetizer or side dish.
    Deep-Fried Sweet Potato Fries
    Deep Fried Sweet Potato Fries featured overhead of plate of fries and dipping sauce
    Homemade Ranch Dressing without Mayo
    This ranch dressing is so delicious, no one will know it is made without mayo. It is cool, creamy, and herby just like a true ranch dressing should be. With no added sugar, it is low-fat, low-calorie, and low carb option that is healthy & delicious.
    Homemade Ranch Dressing without Mayo (Keto & Low-Carb)
    homemade keto ranch dressing in a glass cup with celery and carrots to dip

    Healthy Party Recipes with Protein & Vegetables

    Here are some party recipe ideas that include meat and protein. These recipe ideas for your next party to have for low-carb, keto, gluten-free, or paleo appetizers and snacks. There are party salads and vegetable ideas here as well for something healthy for your guests, including vegan & vegetarian recipes.

    Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Wings
    The best Instant Pot chicken wings recipe is so easy & yummy. Fall-off-the-bone buffalo chicken wings will please any crowd. The cooking liquid secret adds so much flavor. These spicy wings are keto-approved, low-carb, & diabetic-friendly.
    Instant Pot Chicken Wings
    plated buffalo wings topped with ranch dressing
    Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
    Crispy chicken wings in hot honey lemon pepper sauce are sticky, sweet, & spicy. This recipe for deep-fried wings in a hot flavorful sauce is easy to make. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, lunch, or dinner. These wings are gluten-free without breading bust still so crispy.
    Hot Honey Lemon Peppers Wings
    Hot Honey Lemon Pepper wings on a white plate topped with chili peppers.
    Garlic Butter Wings
    Crispy garlic butter wings are fantastic.  Seasoned chicken wings are deep-fried and tossed in a garlic butter sauce that is rich & pungent. Loaded with garlic and crispy skin makes these wings an appetizer favorite. The best mild wings for game day, parties, or a crowd. Also low-carb, gluten-free, & keto-friendly.
    Garlic Butter Wings
    Garlic Butter Wings Plated and topped with fresh parsley.
    Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick
    Teriyaki chicken on a stick is an easy family favorite recipe.  These tasty marinated chicken teriyaki kebabs are grilled to perfection for the ultimate sweet, salty, and savory bite. This is a gluten-free recipe with keto options as well.
    Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick
    Teriyaki chicken on a stick stacked on a plate with dipping sauce
    Dipping Sauces for Sweet Potato Fries
    The best dipping sauces for eating with sweet potato fries are these two quick and easy recipes. Not just one but two terrific dips. Each is a wonderful combination of 3 simple ingredients to make a yummy dip in just 1 minute. Enjoy a cool, creamy, & spicy ranch version or a sweet & tangy maple mustard recipe.
    Dipping Sauces for Sweet Potato Fries
    Deep Fried Sweet Potato Fries featured overhead of plate of fries and dipping sauce
    Keto Chicken Nuggets
    Homemade Keto Chicken Nuggets are easy to make & delicious. The grain-free/gluten-free coating is low-carb, crispy & crunchy. Boneless skinless breast bites are deep-fried until juicy on the inside & golden on the outside. The breading of almond flour, parmesan cheese, & spices is flavorful. These are the best & loved by kids & adults.
    GRAIN/GLUTEN-FREE FRIED CHICKEN NUGGETS (Keto & Low-Carb)
    plated grain free gluten free keto chicken nuggets with ketchup
    AIR FRYER FROZEN POPCORN CHICKEN
    Crispy air fryer popcorn chicken is so easy to make using your favorite store-bought frozen popcorn chicken.  It is a family favorite whether it is for an appetizer, snack, football food, lunch, or dinner. 
    AIR FRYER FROZEN POPCORN CHICKEN
    Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken recipe card plated with fresh parsley and ranch dressing
    Air Fryer Frozen Coconut Shrimp
    The best hot and crispy air fryer frozen coconut shrimp, try this easy recipe. In just a few minutes your favorite appetizer or seafood meal will be cooked to perfection. Great for parties, game day, or dinner.
    Air Fryer Frozen Coconut Shrimp
    Plated frozen coconut shrimp that has been air fried.
    Old-Fashioned Southern Pimento Cheese
    Pimento (pimiento) Cheese is a true Southern staple for any get-together. This classic old-fashioned 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.
    Southern Pimento Cheese
    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.
    Shishito Peppers with Cream Cheese & Bacon
    Shishito Peppers with Cream Cheese & Bacon
    Homemade Pickles with Leftover Pickle Juice
    Homemade pickles are so easy to make when you reuse pickle juice or brine for this recipe. In 24 hours quick refrigerator pickles are crisp and ready.  Fermentation to turn cucumbers into pickles has never been easier.
    Homemade Pickles with Leftover Pickle Juice
    a jar of pickles with one being removed to eat.
    Roasted Marinated Artichoke Hearts
    Crispy roasted marinated artichoke hearts are the easiest recipe ever. It is so simple to cook marinated, canned, or frozen artichoke hearts in the oven on high heat to get a crispy outside and a tender inside. They're best as an appetizer, healthy snack, salad pizza topping, or side dish. They are gluten-free, grain-free, low-carb, vegan, vegetarian and keto. For a Spanish twist (alcachofa) or Italian take (carciofo) artichoke hearts are so versatile.
    Crispy Baked Marinated Artichoke Hearts
    Crispy Baked Marinated Artichoke Hearts featured closeup
    Mediterranean Chopped Salad
    The best Mediterranean chopped salad is packed with garbanzo beans for protein and a bunch of fresh vegetables. Loaded with Greek & Italian produce like tomatoes, cucumbers, artichokes, & olives plus a homemade Italian vinaigrette dressing recipe. Great for lunch, dinner, side, or appetizer. It is gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, healthy, & tasty for everyone to enjoy.
    Vegan Italian Chopped Salad
    Overhead image of plated salad ready to eat with fork.
    Broccoli Salad with Apples & Cheese
    This healthy broccoli salad with carrots, raisins, apples, and cheese is amazing. The creamy greek yogurt dressing is low-fat and made without mayo. It is tangy, crisp, fresh, and sweet in every bite. It holds up great for potlucks and barbecues. It is even great as a leftover, unlike other salads.
     
    Broccoli & Apple Salad
    Broccoli Apple Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing (no mayo) overhead featured

    Party Sweet Drinks & Desserts

    Every good party has something sweet to finish off the celebration. Here are the best dessert cocktails, drinks, and desserts. This includes cookies, cheesecake, candies, and more for your next party.

    Creamy Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
    Salted caramel espresso martinis are a perfectly rich, sweet, and creamy vodka cocktail recipe. Like a combination of a Starbucks Caramel Macchiato and a Kahlua White Russian.
    Creamy Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
    Salted Caramel Espresso Martini featured on table
    Mint Mojito Iced Coffee (Philz copycat)
    The easiest copycat recipe for your favorite Philz coffee, the mint mojito ice coffee. It is all things cool, minty, creamy, and sweet in one perfect sip.
    Mint Mojito Iced Coffee (Philz copycat)
    Mint Mojito Iced Coffee (Philz copycat) ready with a muffin
    Banana Cream Pie Cookie Cups
    These fun banana cream pie cookie cups are sweet & tasty little dessert bites. Ready-prepared sugar cookie dough filled with thick Jell-O banana cream pudding, lightly whipped cream, & fresh bananas are seriously amazing. This quick & easy recipe is one of the best desserts for using fresh bananas or your mini muffin pan. Only 5 ingredients & ready in less than 30 minutes.
    Banana Cream Pie Cookie Cups
    Sugar cookies filled with pudding for banana cream cookie cups.
    Salted Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies
    There are not enough words to describe the awesomeness that are these sea salt toffee chocolate chip cookies. The cookies are packed with rich semi-sweet chocolate & rich buttery toffee for a combination that is gourmet. They are gooey, crunchy, sweet, salty, & decadent.
    Sea Salt Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies
    Sea Salt Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe fresh baked and plated with flaky maldon salt on top.
    Strawberries & Cream Cookie Bars
    Thick & chewy strawberries and cream cookie bars are a delightful recipe everyone will love. These colorful cookies with chewy strawberry pieces, white morsels, and more are rich, buttery, & gooey. These make a great spring or summer dessert.
    Strawberries & Cream Cookie Bars
    Strawberries & Cream Cookie Bars Recipe card overhead of cut square bar cookies on white parchment.
    Homemade Snickers Bars
    Snickers candy with chewy nougat, rich caramel, crunchy peanuts, and chocolate are a classic. Making your Snickers bars at home is an easy no-bake recipe to satisfy any sweet tooth.
    Homemade Snickers Bars
    Homemade Snickers Bars featured 5 stack
    Cake Mix Strawberry Brownies
    Strawberry brownies made from cake mix are a fun & colorful dessert that is so simple to make. Just 3 ingredients for chewy pink brownies. A great recipe for Easter, Spring, pink-themed parties, birthdays, showers, & Mother's Day.
    Strawberry Brownies
    Squares of fresh baked strawberry brownies.
    Red Velvet Brownies with Cake Mix
    For an easy recipe for red velvet brownies, uses a store-bought cake mix. These yummy moist, fudgy, & rich brownies are packed with white chocolate chips. They look & taste gourmet but only take 5 minutes & 5 ingredients to mix up. Great for Valentine's Day, Christmas, parties, & potlucks.
    Red Velvet Brownies
    Red Velvet Brownies with Cake Mix cut into 9 squares on parchment paper.
    Nutter Butter Bars
    Nutter Butter bars are an amazing cookie for any peanut butter & jelly lover. This easy recipe is the ultimate PB&J cookie bar with a Nutter Butter base, a sweet strawberry preserves layer, and a crumbled topping.
    Nutter Butter & Jelly Cookie Bars
    Nutter Butter & Jelly Cookie Bars featured overhead plate and two nutter butters
    Fruity Pebbles Cereal Bars
    Instead of Rice Krispies treats, make this easy recipe for the best colorful Fruity Pebbles cereal bars. The squares are chewy, gooey, crunchy, & tasty. Top with a drizzle of vanilla candy melts for the ultimate sweet treats.
    Fruity Pebbles Cereal Treat Bars
    Fruity Pebble colorful squares cut and topped with candy melt drizzle.
    M&M Rice Krispies Treats
    For gooey and chewy Rice Krispies treats with M&M candies, this easy recipe is the best. This recipe has colorful chocolate candies and extra marshmallow for a sweet snack or dessert everyone loves.
    M&M Rice Krispies Treats
    Squares of M&M rice crispy treats.
    RED VELVET CRINKLE COOKIE SANDWICHES WITH CREAM CHEESE FILLING
    Red velvet cookies are crispy and chewy. The cream cheese frosting makes the ideal sandwich cookie.
    RED VELVET CRINKLE COOKIE SANDWICHES WITH CREAM CHEESE FILLING
    3 stacked cookies ready to eat
    Snickerdoodle Muddy Buddies
    Muddy buddies (puppy chow) meet the classic snickerdoodle cookie flavors of cinnamon and sugar.
    Snickerdoodle Muddy Buddies
    Snickerdoodle Muddy Buddies
    Keto No-Bake Cheesecake
    This easy no-bake keto cheesecake is creamy, sweet, and yummy. It is gluten-free, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly with only a few ingredients.
    Keto No-Bake Cheesecake
    Keto No-Bake Cheesecake recipe card slice on a plate with mint and blueberries fork and napkin and whole cheesecake in the background
    Halloween Marshmallow Popcorn Balls
    Halloween popcorn balls are the easy festive holiday treat that all ages will love. This recipe is for both orange and monster treats. These marshmallow popcorn balls are loaded with fun candies and chocolate - perfect for costume parties & trick or treating.
    Halloween Popcorn Balls
    Halloween Popcorn Balls featured overhead of popcorn balls on a plate and some to the side with marshmallows and candy corn on the counter
    How to Make Tanghulu (Chinese Candied Fruit)
    This easy recipe for beloved Chinese street food, tanghulu, couldn't be more fun or tasty. Skewered fresh fruit on bamboo sticks coated in simple sugar syrup and then set to harden. The candied outer shell is great crunchy and cracks open when you bit into it. The sweet shell is paired with tart or sweet fruits like strawberries, oranges, pineapple, and more.
    How to Make Tanghulu (Chinese Candied Fruit)
    A glass with skewered tanghulu standing up in it ready to eat.
    Red, White, & Blue Strawberries for 4th of July
    These red, white, and blue chocolate-covered strawberries are a fun and colorful 4th of July recipe. For a patriotic twist, you only need a few ingredients for this easy make-ahead dessert.
    Red, White, & Blue Strawberries for 4th of July
    Red, White, & Blue Strawberries for 4th of July featured overhead plate full and napkin
    Fresh Strawberry Mousse Parfait
    Fresh strawberry mousse is an easy parfait dessert. It’s light and healthy with mounds of yummy berry whipped cream and puree layer making for a great no-bake recipe. 
    Easy Strawberry Mousse
    Fresh Strawberry Mousse Parfaits featured portrait on table
    Caramelized Apple Fried Hand Pies (McDonald's copycat)
    Delicious homemade caramelized apple hand pies are easy to make. These fried apple pies are flaky, sweet, and have the perfect hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. Hot and tasty just like the original fried apple pies from McDonald's.
    Caramelized Apple Fried Hand Pies (McDonald's copycat)
    apple hand pies plated and ready to eat
    Patriotic Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
    For a Patriotic dessert to show your red, white, & blue pride, this poke cake is perfect. The moist white cake with red & blue jello streams of color is so pretty. This cool refrigerator cake with a light Cool-Whip frosting and sprinkles is the best dessert for Independence Day, Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, or any other American holiday.
    Patriotic Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake
    Patriotic Red, White, & Blue Poke Cake plated ready to eat.
    Soft Italian Lemon Ricotta Cookies
    For soft Italian ricotta cookies with a hint of lemon, this classic recipe is the best. This traditional cookie served often at Christmas or Easter is amazing any time of year. The small cake-like cookie has a sweet lemon glaze and crunchy nonpareil sprinkles.
    Soft Italian Ricotta Cookies
    Overhead view of a plate piled with frosted and sprinkles cookies
    Chocolate Nonpareils Candy
    Chocolate nonpareils candy is a homemade confection made up of rich chocolate discs with a rainbow nonpareil sprinkle coating on one side.  They are small sweet bites that you can pop in your mouth with a crunchy bottom and creamy chocolate top.  
    Chocolate Nonpareils Candy
    Chocolate Nonpareils Candy recipe card overhead of bowl filled with candy and blue and pink napkins
    Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
    Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge is an easy homemade candy recipe that you will want to make part of your holiday traditions every year. It's sweet, creamy, nutty, soft, and a bit salty.  All you need is 4 ingredients and a microwave to make the best no-bake fudge with powdered sugar & no marshmallow cream.
    No-Bake Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
    Easy Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge plate stacked with teal napkin peanutes and fudge on the counter too

    Breakfast or Brunch Party & Drink Ideas

    If you are hosting a brunch or breakfast, these recipes are the best ideas to make and serve.  Whether you are cooking for a baby or bridal shower, Mother's Day brunch, or Christma breakfast, here are yummy recipe ideas for that celebration.

    Prosecco Christmas Cocktail
    A festive holiday drink to start off Christmas morning and to share with family and friends. This mimosa is the best Prosecco Christmas Cocktail to toast the holiday with. Just 4 ingredients for a fruity, sweet, tart, & delicious beverage. The pretty ruby red drink can also be made alcohol-free for a Christmas mocktail kids & adults will love.
    Christmas Morning Mimosas
    Christmas Morning Mimosas - 2 glasses filled
    Iced Vanilla Matcha Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
    This matcha iced tea latte with vanilla is a copycat recipe for the delicious drink from Starbucks. It is easy to make a cool refreshing green tea drink using matcha powder. Enjoy it iced or blended for a frozen matcha latte frappe.
    Iced Matcha Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
    iced Matcha Latte (Starbucks Copycat) featured two cups with napkin and spoon recipe card
    Stewed Pears
    Sweet pears are stewed with sugar and cinnamon for a sweet treat. They are great for breakfast or for dessert as a topping or accompaniment. This quick and easy recipe makes wonderfully spiced pears.
    Stewed Pears
    Stewed Pears featured image of a white ramekin filled with stewed pears with a touch of cinnamon a spoon and red cloth napkin are to the left
    Fried Spaghetti with Eggs
    Fried spaghetti with eggs is a great way to enjoy leftover spaghetti in a delicious meal that is great for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. This simple recipe results in crispy spaghetti, fried eggs, with a creamy garlicky sauce that pulls it all together in just minutes. 
    Fried Spaghetti with Eggs
    Fried Spaghetti with Eggs recipe card bowl ready to eat topped with fresh parsley
    Toaster Oven Bacon
    For the best toaster oven bacon, try this quick & easy recipe. It is a great way to make a small amount of bacon. Whether you want 1-2 servings of bacon for burgers, sandwiches, or breakfast, this is the foolproof way to cook it.
    Toaster Oven Bacon
    Overhead plate piled with cooked bacon from the toaster oven.
    How to Cook Turkey Bacon in the Oven
    Turkey bacon is a healthy option that turns out perfectly crispy every time when cooked in the oven and the clean-up is so easy. It is by far the best way to cook turkey bacon. 
    How to Cook Turkey Bacon in the Oven
    plate of cooked turkey bacon with a mug and fork on the table
    Air Fryer Frozen Hash Brown Patties
    Cooking frozen hash brown patties in the air fryer is quick and easy. This healthy no oil method results in perfectly crispy on the outside & tender on the inside potatoes every time.
    Air Fryer Frozen Hash Brown Patties
    4 air fried hash brown patties on a white plate
    Keto 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.
    Keto Low-Carb Sausage Balls
    Homemade Low-Carb Sausage Balls featured overhead close up
    Cinnamon Roll Pie
    Cinnamon Roll Pie is the creation of Cracker Barrel for an amazing combination that is simple but oh so yummy. There is no easier 2-ingredient breakfast or dessert recipe than cinnamon roll pie. 
    Cinnamon Roll Pie
    Cinnamon Roll Pie (Cracker Barrel copycat) featured overhead full pan ready
    Sour Cream Bundt Coffee Cake
    The classic sour cream bundt coffee cake recipe with a Nutella swirl. It's rich, buttery, moist, & has a delicious Nutella swirl. All topped with a pretty cinnamon, hazelnut, & chocolate glaze that's irresistible. It's great for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or dessert.
    Sour Cream Bundt Coffee Cake
    Nutella Swirl Sour Cream Coffee Cake
    Perfectly Crispy & Chewy Mochi Waffles
    Mochi waffles have a lovely chewy texture on the inside. This mochi recipe also has a crispy outside for a perfect balance of all things wonderful about homemade waffles. 
    Perfectly Crispy & Chewy Mochi Waffles
    Perfectly Crispy and Chewy Mochi Waffles recipe card
    Basic Keto Chaffles
    Keto and low-carb waffles are made with just two ingredients in only 6 minutes. These savory basic chaffles are only 3 net carbs and have a ton of flavor and versatility to enjoy in so many ways. Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Turn them into keto pizza, a sandwich, or top with so many. No almond or coconut flour.
    Keto Belgian Waffles (Chaffles)
    keto belgian chaffles plated
    How to Make Pancakes Without Milk (Dairy-Free)
    For the best fluffy pancakes without milk, these are the perfect recipe. These dairy-free homemade pancakes are decadent & so easy to make.
    How to Make Pancakes Without Milk (Dairy-Free)
    Stack of pancakes with syrup and fresh fruit.
    Mini Blueberry Muffins
    Homemade mini blueberry muffins are sweet little treats that adults and kids just love.  This old-fashioned homemade recipe is quick & easy. These are the best small batch mini muffins that bake up fast for a fun weekday breakfast or weekend brunch.
    Old-Fashioned Mini Blueberry Muffins
    Old-Fashioned Mini Blueberry Muffins featured stack of muffins
    Easy Applesauce Muffins
    This easy muffin recipe with applesauce is a yumy homemade baked good for all ages, especially kids & toddlers. They are sweet, fluffy, and the cinnamon sugar topping is a bit crunchy which makes these the best muffins ever. Great for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or desserts.
    Easy Applesauce Muffins
    Applesauce Muffins stacked and ready to eat.
    The Best Banana Cinnamon Streusel Muffins
    Overripe bananas become the best fluffy banana streusel muffins. This sweet breakfast muffin recipe is a kid and adult favorite. A touch of cinnamon & brown sugar makes the topping irresistible. This recipe is made from scratch & gives you moist & pretty bakery-style muffins.
    Banana & Cinnamon Streusel Muffins
    the best banana streusel muffins on a plate

    PIN FOR SAFEKEEPING & SHARING!

    Party Food & Drink Ideas PIN

    I hope you have all the recipes you needed to make your party memorable. Mix a few drinks, set out some finger foods, and get the music going. Don't forget to order some party decorations too.

    Party Food & Drink Ideas PN1 4 recipe images moscow mule teriyaki chicken on a stick apple hand pies and watermelon salsa

    50 Party Food & Drink Recipe Ideas

    Angela
    For all the best party food and drink recipe ideas, check out this list. There are easy, funny, and yummy recipes for your next party, holiday, birthday, or celebration. Including finger foods, cocktails, desserts, and all kinds of special diet party foods for keto, gluten-free, & vegetarian.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Share on Facebook
    Prep Time 0 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer, Dessert, Drinks
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4

    Ingredients
      

    Try one or more of the following great party food or drink recipes:

    • Deviled Eggs
    • Chicken Teriyaki Kebabs
    • Poke Nachos
    • Garlic Butter Wings
    • Pimento Cheese
    • Tomato Bruschetta
    • Beef & Cheddar Sliders
    • Shishito Peppers
    • Buffalo Wings
    • Banana Cream Pie Cookie Cups
    • Spicy Moscow Mules
    • Strawberry Brownies
    • Pitcher of Mojitos
    • Coconut Shrimp
    • Apple HandPies
    • Keto Cheesecake
    • Espresso Martini
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions
     

    • Make 1 or more of these party foods or cocktails
    • Refrigerator for later or serve immediately.
    • Enjoy your party.
    Keyword anniversary, brithdays, celebration, christmas, happy hour, holiday, new years eve, party
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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    Angela the short order cook on a step stool reaching into the top kitchen cupboard.

    Hi, I'm Angela I’m Angela, a petite mom that loves to cook, eat, drink, & explore all things food. As a former personal chef & caterer, I specialize in family recipes that taste great & are easy to make. I rely on my trusty stool every day to create & test recipes I know you will love.

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