17 Entertaining Spreads That Didn’t Take Hours To Prepare

Hosting a get-together but short on time? Discover 17 entertaining spreads that are impressive yet quick to prepare. These dishes will make your guests feel special without the stress of spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine welcoming friends and family with a spread of delicious foods that look and taste amazing. These recipes are designed to be easy and efficient, so you can focus on enjoying the party rather than worrying about the food.

A platter of pork carnitas board on a wooden table.
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your appetizer game with Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers, a dish that brings heat and heartiness to the table without requiring extensive prep time. Each popper is stuffed with savory pork, enhancing the classic jalapeno popper with a smoky depth of flavor. They are perfect for parties or as an exciting starter before a casual dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pork Stuffed Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Lemon Cake Pops

Lemon cake pops on a white plate.
Lemon Cake Pops. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Lemon Cake Pops add a tangy twist to your dessert spread, perfect for ending any meal on a high note. They are as much a joy to make as they are to eat, providing a fun dessert option for gatherings of all kinds. Their bright flavor and playful presentation can light up even the simplest of parties. Serve these little gems on a stick for a convenient and mess-free dessert experience.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

Baked Scotch Eggs

Scotch Eggs on a black plate.
Baked Scotch Eggs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy the ease of preparation and the compliments they’ll garner at your next gathering. Baked Scotch Eggs are a robust and satisfying addition to any party or breakfast spread, offering a taste experience without the complexity of traditional frying. These eggs are wrapped in a savory meat layer and baked to perfection, providing a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts.
Get the Recipe: Baked Scotch Eggs

Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

Two glasses of strawberry lillet crush with mint leaves.
Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail is a refreshing choice that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the crispness of Lillet. This cocktail is straightforward to mix, making it an excellent option for impromptu gatherings or relaxing afternoons. Its vibrant color and refreshing taste are sure to impress guests and make it a popular fixture at your events.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Six Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls arranged on a black slate serving tray.
Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Indulge in Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls, where the rich flavor of Biscoff cookies meets the decadence of cake in a perfectly sized treat. These cake balls are covered in a silky chocolate shell, making them irresistible to anyone with a sweet tooth. They are ideal for serving at any event where you want to offer something a bit special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Creamy Jalapeno Dip in a bowl with chip nearby.
Creamy Jalapeno Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve this dip with chips, veggies, or as a topping for grilled meats to add a flavorful twist to your dishes. Creamy Jalapeno Dip is a dynamic addition to your entertaining spread, bringing just the right amount of kick to level up the flavors of your favorite snacks. It’s quick to whip up, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or as a go-to recipe for weekend snacks.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Jalapeno Dip

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Enjoy the sweet and crispy goodness of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. It brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen without the complexity of dining out. This recipe mimics the beloved dish from Panda Express, allowing you to recreate the magic at home with minimal fuss. Serve this shrimp at your next gathering for a standout dish that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pork Belly Burnt Ends are a decadent feature of any entertaining menu. This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and some oven time to achieve that perfect char and melt-in-your-mouth texture. They are great for adding a touch of gourmet flair to your barbecue or as a hearty appetizer at your next party.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This miniature version of the classic Beef Wellington packs all the flavor of the traditional dish into a bite-sized appetizer. Beef Wellington Bites bring the elegance of fine dining into an easy-to-handle, delicious morsel. They are perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or special events, providing a luxurious taste experience without the need for complex preparation.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

A platter of pork carnitas board on a wooden table.
Slow Cooker Carnitas Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This board is not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes, with its colorful array of accompaniments. Slow Cooker Carnitas Board makes your hosting duties a breeze. This dish allows guests to serve themselves, creating a relaxed and interactive atmosphere. Juicy and flavorful, the carnitas can be paired with a variety of toppings for guests to customize their plates.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Carnitas Board

Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

Two lime gimelts with smoke on top.
Smoked Gimlet Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Gimlet Cocktail is an exquisite choice that requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum flavor. The smoked aspect of the cocktail adds a sophisticated twist that will intrigue your guests. It’s perfect for an elegant evening but simple enough to not require elaborate bartending skills. The refreshing taste paired with a hint of smoke makes it a memorable drink for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

Pizza Pasta Salad

A platter of pizza pasta salad served on a white rectangular dish.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family dinner, it’s versatile and beloved by all ages. Pizza Pasta and Salad turns the beloved flavors of a traditional pizza into a refreshing pasta dish. This easy-to-make salad is a hit at any gathering, especially during the summer when you crave lighter fare. It combines the joy of pizza toppings with the satisfying heft of pasta.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies

A white plate with four square pieces of Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies bars.
Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Prepare to impress with Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies, an easy dessert that’s as decadent as it is simple to make. The unique flavor of Speculoos blends perfectly with rich white chocolate, creating a treat that feels gourmet. These blondies are ideal for those who want to offer something a little different from the usual dessert fare.
Get the Recipe: Speculoos White Chocolate Blondies

Sausage Rolls

Sausage Rolls on a white plate.
Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage Rolls are a classic choice that’s effortlessly satisfying. They can be prepared ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and baked just before your guests arrive to ensure they are enjoyed warm and flaky. These are perfect for passing around at a cocktail party or as a hearty addition to a buffet. Their savory filling and golden pastry are always popular among guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Rolls

Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip

Artichoke Jalapeno Dip in a black bowl with crackers nearby.
Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dip combines the tang of artichokes with a kick of jalapeno, creating a perfect balance that’s both rich and refreshing. Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip is a creamy, spicy dip that’s as easy to make as it is flavorful. It’s a versatile addition to your spread, great with chips, bread, or veggies. Its bold flavors and creamy texture will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke-Jalapeno Dip

Pizza Raclette

A group of pizza raclette.
Pizza Raclette. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pizza Raclette is not just a meal; it’s an experience. This interactive setup lets everyone get involved in making their own mini pizzas right at the table. It’s perfect for family gatherings or casual parties where you want to add a bit of fun to the menu. Not only does it make for great entertainment, but it also allows each guest to tailor their pizza to their tastes.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Raclette

Guacamole Snack Board

A top-down shot of a guacamole snack board.
Guacamole Snack Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This board exemplifies easy entertaining with a healthy twist. Guacamole Snack Board is a vibrant, tasty option that brings people together. Freshly made guacamole sits at the center of a board surrounded by a variety of dippers ranging from crunchy vegetables to crispy tortilla chips. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want a light yet satisfying option that guests can enjoy at their leisure.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

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