Our Best Make-Ahead Appetizer Recipes

By Jenna Sims June 03, 2022

Credit: Greg Dupree Styling: Caroline M. Cunningham

Whether you're having guests over to your house or need an appetizer to take along to a potluck, there are times when you need to make an appetizer ahead of time. These recipes will allow you to serve up a delicious appetizer even if you're short on time the day of the gathering where you'll be serving them. Classics like deviled eggs, pimiento cheese, and more have always been favorites of Southern hostesses not only because of how delicious they are, but also because they can be made in advance.

In addition to being able to be made ahead, these appetizers are also easy to pull together. Many of these recipes have to be chilled overnight, which makes them the perfect appetizers for when you need a make-ahead option. Read on for our best make-ahead appetizers that'll come to the rescue on your busiest days.

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Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp

Credit: Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Styling: Christine Keely

Recipe: Bloody Mary Poached Shrimp

Since this dish has to chill for at least 8 hours and preferably up to 24, it must be made ahead of time.

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Black Bean and Corn Salsa

Credit: Antonis Achilleos

Recipe: Black Bean and Corn Salsa

This big batch salsa is made to serve 12, but can be easily doubled for even larger crowds. Plus, we bet you won't mind having leftovers which can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

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Marinated Feta With Cherry Tomatoes

Credit: Victor Protasio; Food Styling: Rishon Hanners; Prop Styling: Audrey Davis

Recipe: Marinated Feta With Cherry Tomatoes

Toasted baguette slices serve as an ideal base for a tomato and cheese mixture that marinates overnight before serving.

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Old Bay Rémoulade with Crudités and Shrimp

Credit: Johnny Autry; Prop and Food Styling: Charlotte L. Autry

Recipe: Old Bay Rémoulade with Crudités and Shrimp

This remoulade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, so you can prepare it several days in advance of an event if needed.

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Basic Deviled Eggs

Credit: Lee Harrelson; Styling: Jan Gautro, Laura Zapalowski

Recipe: Basic Deviled Eggs

You can prepare deviled eggs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. If you'll be transporting them, keep the filling separate and top the eggs just before serving.