25+ Delicious New Year’s Recipes to Serve a Crowd
The New Year’s Eve celebration is all about ringing in a fresh start with good company, great memories, and, of course, delicious food!
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering at home, a lively party, or a more intimate affair, serving the perfect appetizers, entrees, and desserts for a crowd is key to ensuring everyone has a memorable time.
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide what to make, but fear not—we’ve got you covered!
This roundup of 25+ New Year’s recipes for a crowd is designed to impress your guests and fill their bellies with festive flavor.
From savory appetizers like mini crab cakes and cheese fondue to indulgent mains and sweet treats, these recipes are sure to elevate your celebration.
So, let’s dive in and discover a spread that’s both easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness!
25+ Delicious New Year’s Recipes to Serve a Crowd
As you prepare for the countdown to the New Year, the last thing you want to worry about is what to serve.
With these 25+ New Year’s recipes for a crowd, you can focus on celebrating and enjoying time with your loved ones.
From finger foods to hearty dishes, and from refreshing salads to indulgent desserts, these recipes are designed to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or a casual party, these crowd-pleasers will ensure your guests leave with full stomachs and happy hearts.
Here’s to a delicious New Year filled with great food, laughter, and unforgettable moments!
Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
These Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are the perfect finger food to start off your New Year’s celebration. The combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese filling, and crispy bacon is always a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and sure to be a hit at any party, offering the right balance of heat and savory richness.
Ingredients:
- 20 large jalapeños
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 20 slices of bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. (Wear gloves while handling the jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.)
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, filling them generously.
- Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick to hold the bacon in place.
- Place the wrapped jalapeños on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
These Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers are a savory sensation that will have your guests coming back for more. The combination of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and spicy jalapeño makes for a delicious bite-sized treat. Perfect for large gatherings, these poppers can be prepped ahead of time and quickly baked before serving, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the party and less time in the kitchen.
Citrus-Glazed Ham
This Citrus-Glazed Ham is the centerpiece your New Year’s celebration needs. A juicy, tender ham is paired with a tangy and sweet citrus glaze, elevating the flavors with orange, pineapple, and brown sugar. The dish is a showstopper in both taste and presentation, and it’s easy to make in large quantities, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham (6-8 lbs)
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Whole cloves for studding
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ham on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
- Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud with whole cloves.
- In a medium saucepan, combine orange juice, pineapple juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
- Brush a portion of the glaze over the ham, making sure it’s evenly covered.
- Roast the ham in the preheated oven, basting with the glaze every 30 minutes, for about 1.5-2 hours, or until heated through and caramelized on the outside.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 10 minutes, then carve and serve.
This Citrus-Glazed Ham is a perfect dish to serve a crowd, offering a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The citrus glaze creates a beautiful caramelized crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender, juicy ham. Whether it’s the main attraction at your New Year’s dinner or a side dish to complement other offerings, this ham will be the star of the show. Plus, the leftovers make fantastic sandwiches the next day!
Loaded Mashed Potato Bar
For a fun, customizable crowd-pleaser, the Loaded Mashed Potato Bar lets your guests create their perfect potato dish. This interactive food station is a hit for New Year’s gatherings as it’s easy to make in bulk and can be tailored to various tastes. Serve a creamy base of mashed potatoes with a wide array of toppings like bacon, cheese, sour cream, chives, and more, allowing everyone to build their own personalized mash masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (more for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup crumbled bacon
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water for 12-15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes with butter and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream as desired.
- Transfer the mashed potatoes to a large serving bowl or platter.
- Set up a topping bar with bowls of shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, mozzarella cheese, and parsley.
- Let guests top their mashed potatoes with their choice of toppings.
A Loaded Mashed Potato Bar is the ultimate comfort food station that allows guests to mix and match their favorite toppings. The creamy mashed potatoes serve as the perfect base for savory add-ins, and the fun of personalizing each bowl makes it an interactive experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a buffet-style New Year’s celebration or creating a casual, relaxed atmosphere, this recipe ensures no one leaves hungry.
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
These Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli are an elegant appetizer that combines the sweet, delicate flavor of crab with a crispy golden crust. Perfect for a New Year’s party, they can be prepared in large batches, making them ideal for a crowd. Paired with a zesty homemade lemon aioli, these little bites are sure to impress your guests and elevate your celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Lemon Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small crab cakes, about 1.5 inches in diameter, pressing lightly to hold them together.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- While the crab cakes are frying, whisk together all the ingredients for the lemon aioli in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the crab cakes are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the mini crab cakes warm with a side of lemon aioli for dipping.
These Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli are an irresistible addition to any New Year’s party. The crab cakes are light, flavorful, and perfectly crispy, while the tangy aioli provides the perfect dipping sauce. Easy to prepare in large batches, these mini crab cakes make a sophisticated appetizer that’s sure to be a favorite among your guests, offering a touch of luxury without a lot of fuss.
Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions and Gouda
Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions and Gouda are an unbeatable party favorite. These sliders feature juicy beef patties, melted gouda cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, all served on soft, fluffy buns. Perfect for serving a crowd, these bite-sized burgers pack a punch of flavor, making them a must-have at your New Year’s gathering. With each bite, your guests will experience the savory goodness of perfectly balanced ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns
- 8 oz Gouda cheese, sliced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 12 small patties, making them slightly larger than the buns as they will shrink while cooking.
- Cook the beef patties on the grill or skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Place a slice of Gouda cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
- While the patties are cooking, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, until the onions are soft and caramelized.
- Assemble the sliders by placing each beef patty on a slider bun, then topping with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
These Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions and Gouda are a crowd favorite, offering all the flavors of a classic burger in bite-sized form. The combination of rich, caramelized onions, gooey gouda, and tender beef creates a slider that is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether served at a casual buffet or as part of a New Year’s celebration spread, these sliders will be a delicious hit that your guests will remember long after the party ends.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Parmesan
Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Parmesan are the perfect savory appetizer for ringing in the New Year. The rich flavors of sausage and parmesan cheese are combined with tender mushroom caps, creating a bite-sized treat that’s both hearty and full of flavor. These stuffed mushrooms can be made ahead of time and baked right before serving, making them a great option for parties where you want to minimize last-minute prep.
Ingredients:
- 24 large button mushrooms
- 1 lb sausage (Italian sausage works well)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems, setting the caps aside. Finely chop the mushroom stems.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked sausage, chopped mushroom stems, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Parmesan are the perfect bite-sized appetizers for your New Year’s party. The savory sausage filling pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, and the addition of creamy cheese and crispy breadcrumbs adds a luxurious texture. These easy-to-make stuffed mushrooms are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and elegant way to celebrate the occasion.
Pulled Pork Sliders with Sweet BBQ Sauce
Pulled Pork Sliders with Sweet BBQ Sauce are the ultimate comfort food for any crowd. Tender, slow-cooked pulled pork is piled high on soft slider buns and topped with a tangy-sweet barbecue sauce. This dish is ideal for a New Year’s celebration, as it’s easy to prepare in advance, and the slow-cooked pork is incredibly flavorful. These sliders are a perfect combination of savory and sweet, making them a surefire hit at your party.
Ingredients:
- 4 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup sweet BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Rub the pork shoulder with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Place the sliced onion in the bottom of a slow cooker and add the pork shoulder on top. Pour the chicken broth over the pork.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
- Toss the shredded pork with the sweet BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- Spoon the pulled pork onto slider buns and serve immediately. Optional: add pickles or coleslaw on top for extra flavor.
Pulled Pork Sliders with Sweet BBQ Sauce are a simple yet delicious dish that can feed a crowd with ease. The slow-cooked pork is rich in flavor and pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy BBQ sauce. Whether served as a main course or as part of a larger spread, these sliders are sure to satisfy your guests’ appetites and keep them coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to prepare ahead of time, making them the perfect stress-free party dish.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a light and refreshing appetizer that combines fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a rich balsamic reduction. These skewers are perfect for a New Year’s gathering, offering a burst of fresh flavor in each bite. They’re simple to assemble and provide a refreshing contrast to heavier party dishes, making them a great addition to your celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 24 small wooden skewers or toothpicks
Instructions:
- To make the balsamic glaze, place the balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vinegar has reduced by half and thickened. Set aside to cool.
- Thread a tomato, a mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto each skewer, alternating ingredients.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze offer a delightful combination of fresh, light ingredients that are perfect for any celebration. The tangy sweetness of the balsamic glaze complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes, creating a bite-sized treat that’s both refreshing and flavorful. These skewers are easy to make in large batches and can be assembled ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for a stress-free New Year’s gathering.
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a twist on the classic chicken parmesan, made into bite-sized meatballs and smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. These meatballs are perfect for a New Year’s party because they’re easy to eat with your hands, and they’re packed with flavor. With the delicious combination of chicken, Italian seasonings, and gooey cheese, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone at your party.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet, covering the meatballs. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Preheat the broiler. Once the meatballs are cooked, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and broil for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the chicken parmesan meatballs with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a fun, bite-sized version of the beloved classic dish. The tender chicken meatballs are full of flavor, and the melted mozzarella adds the perfect touch of creamy richness. Paired with marinara sauce, these meatballs make for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish. They’re easy to prepare in advance and can be served either as a main course or a finger-food appetizer, making them the perfect addition to your New Year’s celebration.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Bites
Spinach and Artichoke Dip Bites are a fun, bite-sized twist on the classic creamy dip. These little pastries are filled with a savory mixture of spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses, offering the rich flavors of the dip in an easy-to-eat form. Perfect for a New Year’s party, these bites are both comforting and indulgent, and they are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 package puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 2-inch squares or circles using a cookie cutter.
- Place a small spoonful of the spinach and artichoke mixture in the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, pinching the corners to seal.
- Place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet and brush with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
These Spinach and Artichoke Dip Bites are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the classic dip in a handheld form. The buttery, flaky puff pastry perfectly complements the rich and creamy filling, making them an irresistible treat for your New Year’s party. They can be made in advance and baked just before serving, offering a stress-free and tasty appetizer that your guests will love.
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Cocktail Sauce
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Cocktail Sauce is a timeless appetizer that adds elegance and sophistication to any New Year’s gathering. The shrimp are poached to tender perfection and served chilled with a bold, spicy cocktail sauce. This dish is light yet full of flavor, and it’s an easy, impressive option to serve a crowd. The combination of succulent shrimp and zesty sauce makes it a classic crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
For the Spicy Cocktail Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, adjust to heat preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine water, lemon halves, Old Bay seasoning, and kosher salt. Bring to a boil.
- Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
- Drain the shrimp and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once chilled, drain again and pat dry with paper towels.
- For the cocktail sauce, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the shrimp on a platter with the spicy cocktail sauce on the side for dipping.
Shrimp Cocktail with Spicy Cocktail Sauce is an elegant and easy-to-prepare appetizer that never goes out of style. The shrimp are light and refreshing, while the spicy cocktail sauce adds a delightful kick. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and served chilled, making it a perfect addition to your New Year’s spread. It’s a great way to impress guests with minimal effort while offering a flavorful, sophisticated option for your party.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a flavorful, healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. These crispy, spicy bites are made with cauliflower florets that are roasted until golden and coated in tangy buffalo sauce. Perfect for a New Year’s party, they are ideal for those seeking a vegetarian or lower-calorie option without sacrificing flavor. Serve them with a side of creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for a complete experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a batter.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, coating it evenly, and then place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- While the cauliflower is baking, heat buffalo sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Once the cauliflower is done, remove it from the oven and toss the florets in the warm buffalo sauce.
- Serve immediately with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and guilt-free alternative to traditional buffalo wings, offering the same bold flavors with a lighter twist. These crispy, spicy bites are perfect for a New Year’s party, as they cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Whether your guests are vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply looking for a new way to enjoy buffalo flavor, these cauliflower bites are sure to be a crowd favorite.
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli are a decadent and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for a New Year’s celebration. These golden-brown crab cakes are packed with tender crab meat, seasoned with fresh herbs, and served with a zesty lemon aioli on the side. They’re bite-sized and easy to eat, making them ideal for a party. With their luxurious taste and impressive presentation, these mini crab cakes are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh crab meat (or canned lump crab meat)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine without breaking up the crab too much.
- Form the mixture into small, bite-sized cakes, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- For the aioli, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Serve the mini crab cakes warm with a side of lemon aioli for dipping.
Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli offer a sophisticated and indulgent treat that’s perfect for ringing in the New Year. The combination of tender crab meat, fresh herbs, and crispy breadcrumbs is irresistible, and the tangy lemon aioli adds a bright and creamy finish. These bite-sized delights are easy to serve and will undoubtedly be the star of your appetizer spread.
Cheese Fondue with Fresh Veggies and Baguette
Cheese Fondue with Fresh Veggies and Baguette is a fun and interactive dish that adds an element of excitement to any New Year’s celebration. The creamy, melted cheese is perfect for dipping pieces of crusty baguette, fresh vegetables, and even fruit. This dish encourages guests to gather around and indulge in the delicious, cheesy goodness, making it an ideal choice for sharing. It’s a warm, comforting appetizer that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 clove garlic, halved
- 1 1/2 cups dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy) or water
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh baguette, cut into cubes
- Fresh vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
- Rub the inside of a fondue pot or heavy saucepan with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic.
- Pour the wine and lemon juice into the pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Gradually add the shredded Gruyère and Swiss cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with kirsch (or water) to make a slurry. Slowly stir this into the cheese mixture to thicken.
- Add the Dijon mustard, black pepper, and more wine if the fondue is too thick. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
- Serve the cheese fondue with cubed baguette, fresh vegetables, and other dippable items of choice.
Cheese Fondue with Fresh Veggies and Baguette brings a cozy, interactive element to your New Year’s gathering. The smooth, rich cheese paired with a variety of dipping options makes for a delicious and fun appetizer that encourages guests to mingle and enjoy. It’s a crowd-pleasing option that adds an element of indulgence to your celebration, making it the perfect dish for ringing in the new year.
Loaded Nacho Bar
A Loaded Nacho Bar is the perfect way to serve a crowd while letting guests customize their own nachos. With a variety of toppings and sauces to choose from, everyone can create their ideal nacho combination. Whether you want to go traditional with cheese, salsa, and guacamole, or get creative with pulled pork, jalapeños, and sour cream, this nacho bar is an interactive and fun way to enjoy a crowd-pleasing dish. It’s simple to set up and sure to be a hit at your New Year’s celebration.
Ingredients:
- 1 large bag tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sliced olives
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken or beef (optional)
Instructions:
- Lay out a large platter or a few trays and spread a generous amount of tortilla chips across them.
- In a small saucepan, melt the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted cheese over the chips or serve on the side for guests to add themselves.
- Set up the nacho bar with the remaining toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, tomatoes, onions, black beans, olives, cilantro, and any additional toppings.
- For a heartier option, add cooked chicken or beef for guests to top their nachos with.
- Allow guests to assemble their nachos as desired and enjoy!
A Loaded Nacho Bar is a fun, customizable way to serve a crowd while letting guests create their perfect plate of nachos. With a variety of toppings and sauces available, this interactive dish ensures there’s something for everyone. It’s perfect for a casual New Year’s gathering where guests can mingle, snack, and enjoy a delicious and creative meal.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!