You’ve just moved into a new place! Congratulations are in order — and housewarming food ideas for your first party to welcome your family, friends, and maybe even your new neighbors to show off your new digs. Between the move, the unpacking, and the decorating, you’re probably ready for a little celebration and the opportunity to show off the fruits of your real estate labor.
Since housewarmings are meant as an opportunity to mingle with friends — both old and new — the last thing you want to do is spend all of your time in the kitchen preparing food for your guests. Make these delicious housewarming appetizers for your first party in your new home. That way, your guests can enjoy your food and your company!
Housewarming appetizers your guests (and you) are going to love
Spinach balls
This recipe has a lot of ingredients, but it makes a lot, too. You’ll be able to serve some at your party and keep the rest in the freezer for when unexpected guests stop by. Hint: You can make these days before your housewarming party and place them on a cookie sheet in your freezer until firm. Place in plastic freezer bags or containers and thaw slightly before baking.
Ingredients:
- 2 10-ounce packages of chopped spinach
- 3 cups herbed stuffing mix, crumbs (not cubed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 6 eggs, well beaten
- 3/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
Method:
- Cook spinach and drain, making sure to squeeze out all the excess liquid.
- Combine the cooked spinach with the remaining ingredients and mix well. Shape the mixture into 3/4-inch balls and place them on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
This recipe yields about 10 dozen, depending on the size of the balls you make. It’s a great appetizer to make for your housewarming party now and to keep a few dozen in the freezer for the next time you entertain.
Parmesan cheese crisps
This housewarming appetizer recipe is so easy to make, and your guests will literally devour them. Prepare everything ahead and pop them in the oven when your guests arrive.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 loaf French bread, thinly sliced
Method:
- Combine the cheese, mayonnaise, chopped onion, and milk in a bowl, then cover the mixture and refrigerate.
- Place bread slices on an un-greased cookie sheet and toast them in the oven until lightly browned.
- Before your guests arrive, spread the cheese mixture onto the lightly browned bread slices.
- Spread the mixture onto the previously toasted bread and bake an additional 2-3 minutes in an oven preheated to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (or until golden brown).
Thanks to the combo of the bubbly cheese mixture and crunchy bread, this will become your new go-to appetizer.
Cold prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears
With just three ingredients and absolutely no cooking involved, this is one appetizer you’ll always want to keep in your repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced prosciutto
- Fresh asparagus spears (Note: When selecting asparagus in the produce aisle, try to find thinner spears — they tend to be tastier and more tender. )
- Bottle of balsamic glaze
Method:
- Wash the asparagus, pat them dry, and trim off the ends.
- Using a half slice of prosciutto, wrap your asparagus spears from the base to the tip.
- Arrange the wrapped asparagus spears on a platter and drizzle with a balsamic glaze right before guests arrive.
How easy was that? Looking for a simple yet delicious appetizer? This is it!
Housewarming finger food ideas
If you’re planning on serving cocktails, wine, or beer (or even if you’re not), it’s important to make sure your guests have sufficient food and don’t leave your housewarming party hungry. In addition to appetizers, it’s a good idea to provide an assortment of finger foods on the table or serving counter throughout the party that doesn’t require plates, forks, or knives.
Whether you make the finger foods yourself, order them from a local restaurant, or even off your grocery store catering menu, these tried-and-true favorites are always a sure-fire hit at any event.
- Sandwich trays: Not only are they easy to make (and even easier to order), but they are hearty and cost-efficient. Make sure sandwiches are cut into manageable sizes to minimize plate usage and offer various fillings to cater to different tastes, including having at least one vegetarian option.
- Cheese and crackers: They’re a staple at any party, and with good reason. You can create a cheese platter that’s simple and economical or one with decadent gourmet imports and crusty French bread; whichever way you go, it seems that everyone loves a good cheese platter.
- Don’t forget dessert: People tend to look for something sweet to satisfy their tastebuds at the end of any party, so be sure to give them something delicious. In keeping with your no-utensils-required theme, offer platters of home-baked or store-bought cookies, brownie bites, macarons, or pastries. Keep everything bite-sized to minimize cleanup when the party is over.
Housewarming food ideas: The main course
If you want your housewarming party to be a fancy, sit-down dinner, these main course options ensure your guests will leave full and happy. When planning the main event for your housewarming dinner party, you’ll want to choose dishes that are satisfying, please a wide range of palates, and are easy to serve.
Consider these delicious options:
- Roast chicken: A classic choice that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Beef stroganoff: Rich and creamy, this dish is perfect for a cozy gathering.
- Vegetarian lasagna: Layers of pasta, cheese, and vegetables create a comforting, meat-free option.
- Grilled salmon: Light yet flavorful, served with a lemon-dill sauce and fresh greens.
Congratulations — with minimal planning and a little bit of work in the kitchen, your first event in your new home is certain to be a hit. Do the prep work ahead, rely on a mix of homemade and store-bought food items, and you’ll be able to focus on enjoying mingling with your guests instead of toiling away in the kitchen.
