15 Blackstone Griddle Appetizer Recipes To Try (For Tailgating, Gamesday)

Looking for Blackstone Appetizers recipes, Tailgate Griddle Recipes, or Blackstone gameday recipes spice up your BBQ party with these Blackstone Appetizers Recipes

If you love cooking and having friends over for gatherings, then you know the joy of revisiting your tried and tried appetizer recipes can often bring.

Appetizers are often small and quick to cook, which makes them ideal to be cooked on a Blackstone Griddle.

The wide, flat surface area allows for several food items to be cooked simultaneously, speeding up preparation time.

blackstone appetizers

I’ve shared a list of my top favorite 15 Blackstone appetizer recipes that are perfect for game day, tailgating, and large groups and gatherings.

You can try Summer Mocktails For BBQ [ Non-Alcoholic Drinks] with these appetizers and our BEST BLACKSTONE RECIPES FOR A CROWD.

Benefits of Making Appetizers on a Blackstone Griddle

There’s so much buzz about cooking appetizers on a Blackstone Griddle.

With its versatility, you can grill, sear, griddle, and sauté to your heart’s content, all on a single surface. You can make appetizers, main meal and even desserts on your griddle.

  • Even Heat Distribution: Blackstone Griddles ensures every inch of your surface gets the same amount of heat. This consistency results in evenly cooked appetizers, leaving you with no raw or burnt surprises.
  • Ease of Use: Thanks to its flat surface, flipping and turning your appetizers becomes a breeze. Even novices can easily manage delicate items like seafood or mini sliders without breakage or loss!
  • Capacity: Hosting a party? No problem! The expansive cooking surface allows you to whip up large batches of appetizers at once. A real-time saver when you want to keep up with hungry guests.
  • Versatility: From sizzling bacon-wrapped jalapeño to seared shrimp skewers, the Blackstone Griddle accommodates a wide variety of foods. Unleash your creativity and let your appetizers steal the spotlight at your gathering.

Tools Needed for Griddle Cooking

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1- Totchos on the Blackstone Griddle

Totchos on the Blackstone Griddle are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer!

Crispy tater tots are topped with melted cheese, ground beef, and all your favorite toppings making for a deliciously fun and easy-to-serve dish.

Perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering, these loaded totchos are sure to be a hit with everyone.

2- Blackstone Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Start your meal with this deliciously spicy appetizer. Wrap jalapeño peppers with bacon and cook on your Blackstone Griddle for a smoky and fiery bite.

Keep the peppers on the griddle until the bacon is crispy to ensure an explosion of flavors with each serving.

Ingredients:

  • 12 jalapeño peppers
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 12 slices bacon, cut in half
  • Toothpicks

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Cut the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes using a spoon.
  3. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
  4. Fill each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon.
  5. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño half with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers on the preheated Blackstone grill, making sure they are evenly spaced.
  7. Grill the jalapeño poppers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender.
Got a Blackstone for Christmas and made bacon-wrapped Jalapeño Poppers on  it. Hope this is welcomed here! : r/grilling
  1. Once cooked, remove the jalapeño poppers from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving.
  2. Serve the Blackstone bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers warm as a delicious appetizer for your party or gathering. Enjoy!

3- Blackstone Shrimp Scampi Skewers

Mojo Marinade Shrimp Skewers with Rice | Blackstone Griddle - YouTube

Ideal for a protein-packed appetizer, these Shrimp Scampi Skewers are a must-try. Marinate jumbo shrimps in a mixture of garlic, lemon, and herbs before threading them onto skewers.

Cook until they develop a beautiful sear and serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zesty kick.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, minced garlic, lime juice, chopped cilantro, honey, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the shrimp, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
  3. Preheat your Blackstone grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each shrimp.
  5. Once the grill is hot, place the shrimp skewers on the griddle in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded.
  6. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque, and have nice grill marks.
  7. Once cooked through, remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
  8. Serve the Todd’s Mojo Blackstone Shrimp Skewers hot, garnished with additional fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or main dish!

4- Blackstone Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus on the Blackstone Griddle
Blackstone Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles

For fans of green veggies with a twist, these Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a delight. Bundle fresh asparagus spears together and wrap in bacon.

Griddle until the bacon is cooked and the asparagus is tender. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory flavor profile.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, tough ends trimmed
  • 6-8 slices bacon, cut in half crosswise
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Divide the asparagus spears into bundles, about 4-5 spears per bundle, depending on the size of the asparagus.
  3. Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each asparagus bundle, starting at one end and spiraling down to the other end. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.
  4. Brush the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Place the bundles on the preheated Blackstone grill, seam side down, and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  6. Once cooked through, remove the bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
  7. Optional: Drizzle the bundles with balsamic glaze for added flavor and presentation.
  8. Serve the Blackstone bacon-wrapped asparagus bundles hot as a tasty appetizer or side dish. Enjoy!

5- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Want to whip up a quick and tasty appetizer? Try Blackstone Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers! It’s super easy – just marinate chicken chunks in a yummy teriyaki sauce, thread them onto skewers, and grill them up on your Blackstone griddle. 

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
  2. Place the chicken chunks in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
  3. Preheat your Blackstone grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken chunks onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  5. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken skewers on the griddle in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded.
  6. Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks, basting with any remaining marinade as they cook.
  7. Once cooked through, remove the chicken skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
  8. Serve the Blackstone grilled teriyaki chicken skewers hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or main dish!

6- Loaded Tater Tots

LOADED BREAKFAST TOTS ON THE BLACKSTONE GRIDDLE | BLACKSTONE GRIDDLE  RECIPES - YouTube

Ingredients for Blackstone Loaded Tater Tots

  • 1 bag of frozen tater tots
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • Ranch dressing (optional)

Instructions for Blackstone Loaded Tater Tots:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat.
  2. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on the griddle.
  3. Cook the tater tots according to the package instructions, flipping them occasionally to ensure even browning.
  4. Once the tater tots are crispy and golden brown, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  5. Allow the cheese to melt slightly, then sprinkle cooked bacon crumbles over the cheese.
  6. Use a spatula to transfer the loaded tater tots to a serving platter.
  7. Drizzle sour cream over the top of the loaded tater tots.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños if desired.
  9. Serve immediately with ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
  10. Enjoy your delicious Blackstone Loaded Tater Tots!

7- Blacksotne Nachos

Blackstone Memorial Day Loaded Nachos 😋 - YouTube

Ingredients for Blackstone Nachos:

  • 1 bag of tortilla chips
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup diced red onions
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • Guacamole, for serving (optional)

Instructions for Blackstone Nachos:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat.
  2. Spread the tortilla chips in an even layer across the griddle.
  3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the tortilla chips.
  4. Evenly distribute the cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken over the cheese-covered chips.
  5. Sprinkle diced tomatoes, diced red onions, sliced black olives, and sliced jalapeños over the top of the nachos.
  6. Allow the nachos to cook on the griddle until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the toppings are heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Carefully transfer the loaded nachos to a serving platter using a spatula.
  8. Drizzle sour cream and salsa over the top of the nachos.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
  10. Serve immediately, with guacamole on the side if desired.
  11. Enjoy your delicious Blackstone nachos as a tasty appetizer or main dish!

8- Blackstone Stuffed Peppers

How to Make Stoplight Stuffed Bell Peppers | Blackstone Griddles - YouTube

Looking for the perfect appetizer to kick off your game night or weekend BBQ party? Try our Blackstone Spotlight Stuffed Peppers!

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (from tops of peppers)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and diced bell pepper and cook until softened about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, cooked rice, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is heated through and well combined. Remove from heat.
  5. Brush the halved bell peppers with olive oil and season the insides with salt and pepper.
  6. Spoon the meat and rice mixture evenly into each pepper half, pressing down gently to pack it in.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper.
  8. Place the stuffed peppers on the preheated Blackstone grill, cover, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Once cooked through, carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
  10. Serve the Blackstone Spotlight stuffed peppers hot as a delicious and satisfying appetizer. Enjoy!

9- BBQ Meatballs On Blackstone

These BBQ meatballs are the perfect appetizer for any occasion.

They’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests. I like to make them while hosting a backyard cookout, a casual gathering with friends, or even on weekend night dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium heat.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until well combined.
  3. Roll the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a plate.
  4. Once the griddle is hot, lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
  5. Carefully place the meatballs onto the hot griddle, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.
  6. Cook the meatballs for 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally with a spatula, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.
  7. Once the meatballs are cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the barbecue sauce over them.
  8. Use a spatula to toss the meatballs in the barbecue sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  9. Allow the meatballs to simmer in the barbecue sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
  10. Once done, remove the meatballs from the griddle and transfer them to a serving platter.
  11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve the BBQ meatballs hot as a delicious appetizer or snack. Enjoy!

10- Grilled Eggplant Bruschetta Grilled Eggplant Bruschetta | Food Channel L - YouTube

Tender slices of grilled eggplant are topped with a flavorful mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic vinegar, creating a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

This Blackstone appetizer is perfect for entertaining or as a light summer snack, this Grilled Eggplant Bruschetta is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat.
  2. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Once the griddle is hot, place the eggplant slices on the griddle and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and grill marks appear.
  4. While the eggplant is grilling, prepare the bruschetta topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well to combine.
  5. Once the eggplant slices are grilled to your desired doneness, remove them from the griddle and transfer them to a serving platter.
  6. Spoon the bruschetta topping generously over each eggplant slice.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle-grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each bruschetta, if desired, for added flavor.
  8. Serve the Blackstone Grilled Eggplant Bruschetta immediately as a delicious appetizer or light snack. Enjoy!

11-  Blackstone Grilled caprese skewers

Catering - Yosemite Falls Cafe

Ingredients for Blackstone Grilled Caprese Skewers:

  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Fresh mozzarella balls
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic glaze
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Wooden skewers

Instructions for Blackstone Grilled Caprese Skewers:

  1. Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium heat.
  2. Assemble the skewers by threading a cherry tomato, a fresh mozzarella ball, and a basil leaf onto each wooden skewer, repeating until all ingredients are used.
  3. Drizzle the assembled skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Place the skewers on the preheated griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cherry tomatoes are slightly charred and the mozzarella is softened.
  5. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the griddle and arrange them on a serving platter.
  6. Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Blackstone Grilled Caprese Skewers!

12- Blackstone Corn Fritters

Blackstone corn fritters are the perfect appetizer for a crowd!

These golden, crispy bites are made with fresh corn and a blend of spices.

They’re easy to prepare in large batches and ideal for sharing or crowds. If you’re hosting a party or a casual get-together, these corn fritters are a tasty and crowd-pleasing choice that will have everyone coming.

Corn Fritters – Blackstone Products

Full Recipe

13- Bacon Cheddar Broccoli Fritters

Bacon Cheddar Broccoli Fritters cooked on the Blackstone griddle are an unbeatable crowd-pleaser! These crispy fritters are made with bacon and cheddar with nutrient-packed broccoli.

Perfect for serving a large group, they’re easy to prepare and will delight your guests with every bite.

Full Recipe

14- Black Pepper Honey Brussels Sprouts

Black Pepper Honey Brussels Sprouts are a flavorful appetizer, perfect for any gathering.

The Blackstone griddle brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, while the black pepper adds a spicy kick and honey provides a touch of sweetness.

Full Recipe

15- Blackstone Griddle Mexican Street Corn

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Blackstone Mexican Street Corn without the cob, perfect for a quick side dish:

Ingredients

  • 2 cans whole kernel corn (or 3 cups frozen corn)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Dash of cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or queso fresco)
  • 1 tablespoon Tajin seasoning (optional)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: If using canned corn, open the cans and drain the corn thoroughly. If using frozen corn, microwave it for 1-3 minutes to thaw it.
  2. Preheat the Griddle: Heat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat (around 400°F).
  3. Cook the Corn: Add melted butter to the griddle, then spread the corn out evenly. Allow it to cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to char slightly.
  4. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Combine: Once the corn is charred, remove it from the griddle and mix it with the sauce until well coated.
  6. Add Cheese and Garnish: Transfer the corn to a serving bowl, and sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, Tajin (if using), and chopped cilantro.
  7. Serve: Enjoy warm as a side dish or appetizer!

16- Blackstone Griddle Pizza Sliders

17- Blackstone’s Tailgating Trifecta For the Big Game Get-Together

The Art of Plating Griddle Appetizers

One key aspect of truly remarkable cooking often overlooked by novices is the art of plating. With these tips, you’ll be serving up your Blackstone griddle appetizers like a seasoned pro.

1. Create a Balance of Colors

Try to include a diverse arrangement of vibrant colors on your plate. The contrasting shades not only creates visual appeal but can also highlight the freshness of your ingredients.

For instance, a bright green basil leaf can add elegant contrast to the rich, velvety red of bruschetta.

2. Utilize White Space

Don’t overcrowd your plate! Leaving some white space here and there can accentuate the beauty of your dish. Think of your plate as a canvas, and your food as the painting, the whitespace is your frame and mat.

3. Bring in Some Texture

Texture is a vital part of an appealing plate presentation. Crunchy, creamy, fluffy, or stringy-all our senses play a part in our eating experience.

For example, when serving a creamy dip alongside our appetizers say, bacon wrapped shrimp skewers, consider garnishing with an element of crunch, like crispy bacon bits or fresh green onions for contrast.

4. Play With Height and Depth

Who said the plate has to be flat? Pile garnishes on top, lean elements against one another, and don’t be afraid to let your food have the third dimension—height.

As an example, when arranging the skewers, positioning them upright could bring a new twist to the presentation.

As a lover of good food myself, I know it takes more than just great taste to impress guests—presentation matters! It’s been demonstrated time and again that people eat with their eyes as much as they do with their mouths. 

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