When I host parties, I always have at least 2 or 3 hot appetizers for my guests to choose from. I am not a "throw-a-can-of-peanuts-on-the-table" kind of gal!

It's important to me that I take the time to select satisfying party appetizers that:

Are simple to makeHave few ingredientsHold up well over timeAre pleasing to look at and of course,Taste great!

Over the years, I have tried out a lot of easy party appetizers on my friends and family and hands down, the three below are my "Top 3 Most Requested Hot Appetizers" (in no particular order).

Number One Most Requested Hot Appetizer--Warm Chipotle Cheddar Dip

2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mozzarella cheese1/2 cup mayonnaise1-8 oz. can whole kernel corn, drained (3/4 cup)1-4 oz. can chopped green chili peppers, drained2 teaspoons finely chopped canned chipotle chili peppers in adobo sauce (or to taste)1/4 teaspoon garlic powder1 medium tomato, seeded and chopped (3/4 cup)1/4 cup sliced green onion2 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantroVegetables, crackers or chips

I found this dip when I was on a low carb diet and was looking for a party appetizer that would work well with vegetables. Something with a robust flavor that would perk up the veggies.

Well this one definitely fit the bill. This appetizer has become a favorite among my friends. It's served multiple times throughout the year at various parties that I either host or attend.

You can make it as smokey and spicy as you want by adjusting the amount of chipotle peppers (smoked jalepenos) but watch out. You can easily go from mildly spicy to blow-your-face-off hot by adding too much!

Steps to Make Cheddar Chipotle Dip

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Stir together cheeses, mayonnaise, corn, green chili peppers, chipotle chili peppers and garlic powder in a large mixing bowl. Spread mixture into a 1 quart, covered dish.

Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly. Top with tomato, green onion and cilantro. I like to make a pattern out of the toppings so I put the tomatoes all in the middle, make a ring around them with the green onion then sprinkle the cilantro over all.

Serve with vegetables, like red, green and yellow peppers. Tostido and Frito Scoops work well too.

Number Two Most Requested Hot Appetizer--Boneless Buffalo Wings

1 large bag of popcorn chicken, thawed (I buy mine at Sam's Club)1 package dry Good Seasons Italian dressing mix1 bottle Frank's Red Hot Sauce (or to taste)1 stick margarine (butter will separate)2 teaspoons lemon juicePinch dried basil

In a saucepan, combine dressing mix, hot sauce, margarine, lemon juice and basil and cook until margarine melts, stirring constantly.

Place chicken in a large bowl and pour sauce over it. Stir until well combined, then pour all into a Crock Pot. Cook on low 4 hours. Crack the lid to keep down the steam and prevent wings from getting soggy.

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