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10 Assembly-Only Trader Joe's Holiday Appetizer Ideas

Save some extra time this holiday season with these no-sweat bites.

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Unpack, Heat Up, Dig In!

When it comes to lowkey entertaining, some people like to cut corners — and others like to barely lift a finger. That's where Trader Joe’s comes in. The cult favorite grocery brand, beloved for its huge selection of frozen foods, snacks and dips, can be a lifesaver when it comes to throwing a holiday party with minimal prep. Whether you’re looking to toss a premade appetizer on a plate or are open to getting your hands a little dirty with a few minutes of basic mixing and layering, here are the best (and easiest) appetizers from Trader Joe's to throw together for a hungry crowd.

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Mini Spicy Pumpkin Samosas

These mini samosas with a seasonal twist are one of Trader Joe’s newest frozen appetizer additions. Garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder and fennel seeds spice up the savory sweet filling of paneer and pumpkin chunks found inside.

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Creamy Cauliflower Jalapeno Dip

You might think cauliflower sounds a bit too plain for a holiday party, but this delicious dip brings the flavor. Blended with cream cheese, light cream, ricotta and Parmesan, it’s extra tasty when heated up in the oven.

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Bruschetta

To make this classic Italian snack, slice Trader Joe’s Organic French Rolls (see photo above), top them with the store’s Fresh Mozzarella Cheese and Bruschetta Sauce, and throw them in the oven to toast. Once the cheese has melted, top them with some tangy Balsamic Glaze. You’ll impress your guests and be done in no time.

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Pork or Chicken Gyoza Potstickers

Stuffed with juicy pork or chicken and cabbage, these fan-favorite potstickers are sure to please a crowd. Just throw them in a pan to crisp up and dip in a little soy sauce.

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Everything But the Bagel Cucumber Bites

This creative take on Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel products adds a light (but still delicious) appetizer to the mix. Smear or pipe Everything But the Bagel Greek Style Yoghurt Dip onto seedless cucumber slices and sprinkle Everything But the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend onto each bite.

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Bacon Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese

There’s something decadent about the combination of bacon and dates, and this Trader Joe’s appetizer will be sure to get your guests in a festive mood. Pro tip: Make sure to leave the dates in the oven for a bit longer than the box directs so the bacon gets extra crispy. (These frozen apps are only available in limited Trader Joe's locations.)

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In this recipe, Trader Joe’s Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets are elevated to greatness when made into mini sandwiches with Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free Toaster Waffles (see above). Spooning the brand's jarred Sweet Chili Sauce over them also provides a mild heat, or if your local TJ's doesn't have the chicken nuggets available, feel free to replace them with these equally tasty Buttered Fish Nuggets.

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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Bites

Get in the holiday spirit with this squash-filled version of Trader Joe’s classic Mac and Cheese Bites. Cheddar and Gouda cheese, béchamel and fall spices like sage, nutmeg, and thyme make it the perfect comforting treat. Note: These yummy bites are only available at certain TJ's locations.

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Pastry Bites with Feta Cheese & Caramelized Onions

It’s hard to resist these sweet and savory pastry bites. They are one of the company's oldest OG frozen appetizers afterall! To make the pastry golden brown, remove them from their plastic tray and pop them in a metal cupcake pan before putting them in the oven.

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Sriracha BBQ Meatballs

Spice up a seasonal classic with this sizzling meatball dish. Simply warm up an entire jar of Trader Joe's Sriracha BBQ sauce on low and stir in any variety of Trader Joe’s frozen Italian or party meatballs until bubbling.

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