8 Easy Appetizers for Thanksgiving

Let's face it -- the turkey is almost never ready on time. But that's okay because the holiday hors d'oeuvres are half the fun. These crowd-pleasing appetizers are all incredibly easy to make (but no one needs to know that).

1. Baked Brie en Croûte with Honey, Dried Cherries, Rosemary & Pecans

Thanks to store bought puff pastry, this fancy-looking appetizer is easy to make -- and it comes with a "most popular person at the party" guarantee. GET THE RECIPE

2. Sweet, Spicy and Salty Candied Pecans

My husband calls these candied pecans "crack nuts" because they're wildly addictive. They're perfect to serve with cocktails or just keep around the house over the holidays. The best part? You only need four simple ingredients to make them -- and if you start right now, you'll be done in 15 minutes. GET THE RECIPE

3. Cheddar & Herb Cheese Straws

These crisp and flaky cheese straws specked with fresh herbs make a wonderful hors d'oeuvre to go along with wine and cocktails. Though they look like bread sticks, they're actually more akin to savory pie crust or pastry. GET THE RECIPE

4. Herbed Cottage Cheese Spread

This delicious spread made from cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic and herbs is adapted from the celebrated L'Auberge Chez Francois in Great Falls, VA. Served with garlic bread, it's irresistible. GET THE RECIPE

5. Swedish Meatballs

Retro they may be, but Swedish Meatballs make perfect party fare. Made from beef and pork and served in a light cream sauce, they are delicious speared with fancy toothpicks. GET THE RECIPE

6. Cocktail Meatballs

Maybe cocktail meatballs are more your speed. These are so much better than the grape jelly versions you've tried before. Just be sure to make extra -- they disappear in a flash. GET THE RECIPE

7. Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp

This is one of my go-to recipes when I have to hit the kitchen running. It takes just twenty minutes to make, I always have all of the ingredients on hand, and there's barely any clean-up! It makes a fabulous appetizer for a party or gathering -- just keep the tails on and serve with plenty of napkins. GET THE RECIPE

8. Pomegranate Margaritas

While technically not an appetizer, every gathering needs a signature cocktail and this seasonal twist on a traditional margarita is perfect for the holidays. Use a good quality 100% agave tequila like Patron Silver -- it'll taste better, and you'll be glad for it the next day. GET THE RECIPE