If you’re looking for some appetizers that are smoked to perfection, here are a few crowd-pleasers that offer the “wow” effect. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, game day gathering, or casual dinner party, smoked appetizers add a unique depth of flavor that elevates any occasion. If you have been on the fence on whether to add a smoker to your outdoor kitchen, these recipes will solidify that decision.
1. Smoked Queso Dip
This smoky twist on the classic cheese dip elevates the taste to new levels. Combine the creaminess of of traditional queso while adding the extra layer of complexity with the added smoking undertones.
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2. Smoked Little Smokies with Raspberry Preserves
These classic bite size snacks can be served alone or incorporated into a charcuterie platter. Changing up the sauce makes this dish taste different every time you serve it.
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3. Smoked Trout Dip
Using smoked trout or any other smoked fish, this hot dip served on crackers, veggies or crostini is a great make ahead option allowing you to spend more time with your guests.
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4. Smoked Cream Cheese
Super simple smoked app that has so much versatility. Smoke the cream cheese and as it comes out, add on your favorite jam, chutney or relish over the top.
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5. Smoked Baked Brie
Add a little luxury to your smoked appetizers and serve up warm, gooey smoked baked brie with a side of bread or crackers. This standout dish guarantees to be a hit with guests with the creamy texture and gorgeous presentation.
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6. Smoked Turkey Necks
Who doesn’t love a good appetizer that makes guests stop in their tracks? This one not only tastes like a million bucks, it is budget friendly and can be made well in advance allowing more time to socialize with guests.
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7. Smoked Bologna Burnt Ends
These offer an unexpected twist on a bbq favorite. This crowd-pleaser is tender, juicy, versatile and budget friendly. Best of all, these are kid-friendly.
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8. Smoked Texas Twinkies
Mouthwatering bbq favorite that combines jalapenos, cream cheese, bacon and sauce for unforgettable taste sensation in your mouth. Serve these up at your cookout, tailgate or block party and everyone will be asking for the recipe before they leave.
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9. Smoked Poor Man’s Burnt Ends
These are a budget-friendly spin on a classic bbq favorite. Easy to make, versatile and not to mention incredibly tender meat.
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10. Smoked Wings
You can’t have a cookout or game day without wings and cooking them on the smoker makes tender, juicy chicken that you don’t have to add sauce to add in the moisture. Rich flavor and melt in your mouth texture.
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11. Smoked Hot Dog Burnt Ends
Let’s raise the bar with the standard pack of hot dogs while having your guests rave over the smoky richness of the dogs and sauce combination. Hot dogs might not be the first thing you think to offer at your bbq but when smoked and caramalized, they are an unexpected treat.
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12. Smoked Bacon Wrapped Dates
Smoked bacon-wrapped dates are a simple yet elegant appetizer to serve at your block party or cookout. Big punch of flavor for very little effort make these one you will make time and time again.
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13. Smoked Beef Jerky
The perfect make ahead app as it has a long shelf life. These savory protein snacks has so much versatility by changing up the type of wood and spices used.
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14. Smoked Olives
When you want your guests to stop and take notice of your apps, this is the recipe to grab. Offering a complex flavor where the smokiness enhances the brine of the olives.
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15. Smoked Cheesy Caramelized Onion Dip
With its rich, smoky flavor and creamy texture, it’s the perfect addition to any party or gathering. Using smoked onions creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dip from old classic to truly gourmet.
Get Recipe: Smoked Cheesy Caramelized Onion Dip
16. Smoked Cheez It Crackers
Let’s take the old box of Cheez It crackers and put it on the smoker with your favorite seasoning for an irresistible smoked snack. Short on time or looking for a budget-friendly app, this is the recipe for you.
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17. Smoked Bacon Pumpkin Seeds
Smoked pumpkin seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack that offer a unique smoky flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite. Smoking pumpkin seeds infuses them with a delicious smoky taste that adds depth and complexity to their natural nuttiness.
Get Recipe: Smoked Bacon Pumpkin Seeds
18. Smoked Pork Belly
Smoked pork belly is a decadent and delicious dish that’s perfect for barbecue enthusiasts and foodies alike. Its rich flavor, tender texture, and versatility make it a standout choice for tailgates and cookouts.
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19. Smoked Salmon Jerky
Whipping up a batch of smoked salmon jerky is a delicious and nutritious snack that’s perfect for anyone who loves the taste of smoked salmon. With its rich flavor, tender texture, and convenient portability, make this for tailgates and block parties on the go.
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20. Smoked Carnitas
Smoked carnitas are a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. Serve these tender bites on little chips so each bite has tender, juicy meat and bold, smoky flavor.
Get Recipe: Smoked Carnitas
21. Smoked Jalapeno Poppers
Bold and spicy smoked jalapeño poppers are a delicious and versatile appetizer that’s perfect for anyone who loves the heat. The smoking wood adds just enough complexity of the cream cheese and bacon without overtaking the taste.
Get Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers
22. More Recipes from Kitchen Laughter
Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your own unique smoked appetizers! Whip up a batch of Smoked Salmon to make pinwheels, crostinis, stuffed mushrooms, sushi rolls and tartlets. Your biggest decision is which one to make first.
Ginny Collins is a passionate foodie and recipe creator of Savor and Savvy and Kitchenlaughter. Indoors she focuses on easy, quick recipes for busy families and kitchen basics. Outdoors, she focuses on backyard grilling and smoking to bring family and friends together. She is a lifelong learner who is always taking cooking classes on her travels overseas and stateside. Her work has been featured on MSN, Parade, Fox News, Yahoo, Cosmopolitan, Elle, and many local news outlets. She lives in Florida where you will find her outside on the water in her kayak, riding her bike on trails, and planning her next overseas adventure.
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