Appetizers that can be made ahead of time?

We are using a 3 part crock pot / warmer for meatballs, spinach dip and a cheese salsa recipe. All three can be prepared and refrigerated ahead or purchased pre-made in bulk containers at Sams Club.

The crackers and chips can be purchased ahead and just have to be layed out in baskets or on platters.

I LOVE Sam's Club Red skin potato salad,,,and it's only about $5 for a large container...we can get that mid-week and it just has to be dished out into large serving bowls.

We are also having pretzel sticks and homemade hot mustard (FH's recipe)..and the mustard can be made a few weeks ahead.

We'll make the cheese and veggie trays the day before. no way of getting around items like that...

How far in advance do you plan to make them?

Great ideas terri, thanks. We are getting our cupcakes there And Kathy, I planned on just within a few days before. We are getting married in FH's home town, so we will be traveling and get there 3 days before...so sometime after we get there, hopefully. I would rather not have to take it with me.

Sams also has little mini cream puffs...those don't need anything but setting out a couple hours ahead..easy-peasy.

I love these... I typically am disgusted by processed food.. like the hot dog - I hadn't had these things since I was 7 or 8... my X-boss made these and ?I couldn't stop eating them... they take time to make just because you wrap them but sitting around the table talking not too hard to do then take them out of the fridge put them on baking sheets sprinkle the brown sugar and pop in the oven...

http://www.bhg.com/recipe/pork/sugared-bacon-wrapped-smokies/

If you don't want to do the hot dog you can do the date version:

http://www.delish.com/entertaining-ideas/parties/cocktail-parties/make-ahead-party-recipes#slide-3

Thanks for the ideas, ladies! We're DIYing apps and I was struggling to think of some easy ones!

Another is large slice salami with mascarpone cheese center... you spread it on like you're making an sandwich, roll them and stack them, and put a little cracked pepper and garlic powder sprinkled between each layer then place in the fridge. Pull out of fridge about 15-20 min before you serve sprinkle a little olive oil and they are ready to go... you can roll them a day or two before.

Hmm, I may have to scout sams for that type of stuff. We are getting cupcakes, cheesecake, pie and our smores supplies from there. It would save me a trip if we could get the app stuff there too!

Ooh, the smokies are perfect to. And the salami would be a little nicer than just plain sliced meat. You guys are the best!

Here are some more I looked up a lot you can make ahead of time and then just throw in the oven to reheat...

http://www.secondchancetodream.com/2012/12/25-quick-easy-appetizers.html

http://blogchef.net/bacon-wrapped-jalapenos-recipe/

Also Fondue might be fun....

Although I don't know how many ppl you are having...

remember don't put the olive oil on the salami wraps till you are ready to serve... not so pretty when the olive oil becomes slimy...

Aside from the obvious crock pot appies (we have a locking lid crock pot with is great for hauling things like chili around). Consider a baked potato bar. We keep them in a portable roaster, and the toppings can be as fun and creative as you like. Clean and wrap the spuds even a couple of days before, and then you just turn on the roaster at the appropriate time.

Pastor Dave

Here is one that I LOVE! You could substitute your favorite fillings. This should be made a day ahead.

http://www.bakingobsession.com/2009/10/04/stuffed-baguette/

Thanks guys, these are great ideas. We will be having between 80-100. And there will be a catered buffet after an hour, but we wanted things people could snack on before and possibly even after. That site you linked is amazing christine, esp the spin dip bites. I kinda want them now.

Haha, i saw the baguette and my first thought...i could eat that entire thing for a meal. Looks so good

How about some cream cheese wontons?