Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating friendship, good food, and gathering the people you love in one place. Whether you’re hosting a cozy night in or planning a full-on ladies’ feast, this Galentine’s Day Food Ideas round-up has you covered. From shareable appetizers and a soup bar to easy mains, sweet treats, and festive drinks, these recipes are designed for relaxed hosting, lots of laughs, and zero stress.
Galentine’s Day is on Friday this year, so you’ll probably be hosting an evening event: maybe a DIY art sesh, or games with quirky prizes, or a special viewing of “Sleepless in Seattle” or “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” or the original Parks & Recreation episode that started it all! In any event, you’ll need lots of nibbles to enjoy throughout the gathering. This list is meant to mix and match. If you’re doing a casual party with an appetizer table, I’ve got you covered with finger food, snacks, dips, plus bite-sized sweets and bevvies.
For a smaller gathering around the dining room table, I’ve included ideas that are easy on the host but provide maximum cozy vibes. Just remember: It’s not about perfection, it’s about being with the people you love and celebrating the special bonds of friendship. Let’s get started!
Appetizers
At Casa Soupaddict, appetizers are always in demand, at any party or gathering. Finger food and crunchy nibbles set a festive party mood, and can be served alongside all of your evening’s events, whether a diy crafts party, board games, or a hot gos session.
Tip: Some appetizers are best right out of the oven, but to ease the preparation pressure, I’ve noted which are make-ahead doable, so you’ll have a balanced choice.
Finger Food & Snacks
There's nothing quite so satisfyingly nibbly as a soft pretzel bite. Wanna make them even better? Stuff them with onion and chive cream cheese, coat them in ranch butter, and top with parmesan. Cream Cheese Stuffed Ranch Pretzel Bites are always the first appetizer to vanish at my parties, and you only need a handful of ingredients to make them happen. These bites can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container.
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The recipe has been around forever in some form or other and, like boot-cut jeans and bohemian florals, it circles back around again and again. With good reason! Easy-to-use crescent rolls are baked and spread with cream cheese and then topped with your favorite diced vegetables. Slice the Ranch Veggie Pizza into 4-bite squares for nibbling, and use pretty rainbow veggies!
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Bacon lovers, if you crave the sweet-and-salty wonderfulness of glazed bacon, then you'll want to try these Cheesy Candied Bacon Twists. I glaze crispy bacon in brown sugar and butter with pecans, spread cream cheese on puff pastry, then twist everything up with Gruyere on top. They're always a finger food magnet at parties.
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Bacon Crackers are irresistible and, might be more appropriately (and problematically) called bacon crack. The concept is so simple and so effective: Bacon fat melts into a buttery club cracker in the oven while the bacon gets candied by a touch of brown sugar. A swipe of boursin adds creamy savoriness. Pro-tip: It's over-the-top delicious with a dollop of hot honey chili crisp!
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I'll take any excuse — winter, summer or fall — to incorporate burrata into an appetizer. Cherry tomatoes aren't exactly seasonal in February, but they're not horrible either. Even hydroponically grown, as most winter cherry tomatoes are, they're so naturally sweet that it overcomes their off-season flavor deficit. Plus, you'll be marinating the tomatoes first, so this lovely Cherry Tomato Bruschetta will have tons of flavor. And also … burrata! You can prepare all the parts ahead of time — fry the bread slices and marinate the tomatoes — and then assemble just before the party.
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These irresistible, crunchy, dilly crackers are a bite-sized nibble that will disappear fast. Dill Pickle Saltines can be made waaay ahead of time so there's one less thing to do on party day.
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This show-stopping Baked Cheesy Puff Pastry appetizer is a whole thing. Sweet, salty, and cheesy, all packed in the carby goodness of easy-to-work-with puff pastry. It's perfect for small parties where each person can tear off a piece while gathered around the tv.
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Popcorn cooked in coconut oil is the popcorn lover's answer to authentic movie theater popcorn, made right at home. Seasoned generously with freshly grated parmigiano reggiano cheese, black pepper, and mustard powder (yes, trust me!), Parmaggedon Popcorn is the perfect nibble when cheering on your favorite team. Make a batch the day before and store in an airtight container.
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A unique but lovely twist on classic deviled eggs, Fried Deviled Eggs are inspired by the legendary Jacques Pepín, who originally named his creation Eggs Jeannette in honor of his mom. Creamy, flavorful filling of traditional deviled eggs, but with an exciting twist: Each stuffed egg half is gently pan-fried, intensifying the flavors and adding a delightful texture. They pair wonderfully with a variety of cuisines and are destined to be the shining stars of your Galentine appetizer table.
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Treat your guests to an indulgent platter of Figs Prosciutto. The natural sweetness of fresh figs, the creamy tang of goat cheese, and the smoky saltiness of prosciutto combine for a well-balanced flavor sensation. Perfect for your Galentine's brunch or as a sophisticated addition to your festive spread.
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When we think of a simple but elegant appetizer spread, wine, cheese, and fruit usually springs to mind. This whimsical dish from the famous Max's Wine Dive, much enjoyed by attendees of SXSW for years, features bread, cheese, and seasonings baked in wine. An appetizer for some — a meal for others — Tipsy Cheesy Bread can be served in individual ramekins for a small crowd or one 2-quart dish.
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Dips & Spreads
Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most impressive, and this Whipped Ricotta with Fig Jam proves exactly that. Creamy ricotta gets whipped until fluffy, then swirled with sweet jam and finished with pistachios for a dip that disappears fast at parties. Although the swirly presentation is part of the appeal, you can make this ahead of time and store carefully in the fridge.
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Creamy Goat Cheese Bacon & Dates Dip combines crispy bacon, crunchy pecans, sweet Medjool dates, and rich, creamy cheeses for a real flavor treat. Serve with crackers and watch as this bacon-focused dip and crowd-pleasing appetizer disappears quickly. You can make the bacon mix ahead of time, store in the fridge, and then gently reheat before serving over the cheesy base.
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The classic Dried Beef Cheese Ball is always a party staple. And if it hasn't been, it needs to become one! A rich, cream cheese base, seasoned with savory, oniony flavors, creates a depth of flavor. But the simple charm of this spread lies in its outer layer, where it's generously rolled in finely chopped dried beef. Make this a day or two ahead of time and store wrapped in cling wrap in the fridge.
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Spice up your holiday celebrations with this bold and flavorful twist on traditional pimento cheese! Infused with a smoky kick and just the right amount of heat, this Spicy Pimento Cheese spread is not just a spread; it's a statement. Whether spread on crackers, used as a dip, or as a unique sandwich filling, this creamy, cheesy spread is a must-try for a little extra warmth in the heart of February. This dip can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
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A show-stopping centerpiece on your party table, Triple Layer Guacamole Dip is a colorful and delectable treat that will be demolished in no time. The top layer features a savory salsa, bursting with fresh, zesty flavors. Next comes a luscious layer of creamy, cheesy spread, rich and smooth. And last, but not least, a layer of classic, velvety guacamole, rich and full of flavor.
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Everyone loves a good cheese ball, and this Pistachio Cranberry Cheese Ball is no exception. A delicious combo of salty pistachios, sweet-tart dried cranberries, and creamy cheeses, this spread is a beautiful mosaic of colors and flavors. Easy to prep, and make-ahead friendly!
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Soup Bar
I don’t think you would be shocked to learn that I, SoupAddict, lead my galentine’s day menu with a flight of delicious soups. It’s February, after all, and your besties had to brave the cold to get to you. So, wrap them in the beautiful warmth of soups simmering on the stove.
Tip: If you’re looking for disposable bowls to use at your party, pay careful attention to the size of the bowl. Eight ounces is only one cup, which is not very much soup! I’m partial to the 16-ounce paper deli containers with lids (make sure they’re leak-proof and appropriate for hot liquids). Supply markers so your guests can write their names on them to take home, refilled with their favorite of the night — leftover soup is the best!
Winter always has us craving comfort food. Tuscan-inspired Marry Me Sausage Orzo Soup is a hearty and flavorful option that's perfect for chilly evenings. It's packed with italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and tender orzo pasta, all swimming in that famous creamy, dreamy broth.
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This satisfying family-friendly dish combines cheese-filled tortellini with savory sausage in a luscious tomato broth seasoned with Italian herbs. Creamy Tortellini Soup is a comforting, full-meal soup that delivers all the cozy, filling goodness you want when temperatures drop!
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The popular appetizer deconstructed into a fully-flavored, rich, and decadent soup! Jalapeño Popper Chicken Soup is a special occasion, celebratory soup that's a meal in itself (and yes, I might have gone overboard with the cream cheese. I regret nothing). Serve it to your favorite people with a warm and buttery baguette on the side, and get reminded with every spoonful why soup is Nature's perfect food.
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Discover a world of rich flavors with this Hungarian Mushroom Soup, a must-have for your holiday feast! Earthy, savory wild mushrooms and generous amounts of paprika create a deeply flavorful and robust soup that's both comforting and satisfying. Elegant and memorable, this soup will definitely impress your guests.
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Indulge in the classic ultimate comfort food favorite. Chicken and Dumplings features delectable homemade herb-infused dumplings and generous portions of tender chicken and airy, cloud-like dumplings. It's the ideal cold-weather delight to gather loved ones at the dining table. An excellent choice for hosting holiday visitors, this dish will warm hearts and tummies alike!
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Roasted Winter Squash and Feta Soup is a decadent soup that’s the perfect starter course for an evening of elegant nibbles. Impressive, yet so easy to make!
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Gorgeous and fire-engine-red — perfect for your heart-themed party — Sheet Pan Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup has super-charged flavor, thanks to oven-roasted vegetables, and simple preparation. Don't skip the paprika roux: It makes the soup extra special!
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Mains
If you’re having a small gathering, a sit-down meal might be the way to go: A one-pot dish or small bites, such as street tacos or sliders, are easy on you and natural crowd-pleasers. Of course, “sit down” can also mean curled up in front of the tv with a bowl of something for a movie marathon or a binge-watch session!
If pizza is a staple at parties with your besties, skip the pie form today and go for something unique but still crowd-friendly. Pizza Tortellini takes all of your favorite pizza flavors and combines them with carby cheese tortellini, for an out-of-this-world party dish.
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This Cheesy Beef Enchilada Skillet is my shortcut to a flavor-packed enchilada dinner. Instead of tediously rolling everything up for an oven bake, the filling ingredients and seasonings go right in a pan on the stove. But I haven't forgotten the tortillas! They're cut up into small pieces and cooked right in the sauce. In fact, they're the secret stars of the show: They puff up into little dumplings that are an absolute delight.
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French Onion Mac & Cheese is a cheesy, indulgent dish that's perfect for your most special occasions, including special gatherings, like Galentine's Day, where cheesy carby comfort food is in order! It's a gourmet-level blend of caramelized onions and tender macaroni in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Make the caramelized onions ahead of time, and the final dish comes together in a snap.
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Chicken Bog might not be your typical dinner party fare, but all I know is that if someone brought this to a gathering with my best peeps, I would die from happiness on the spot. It's one of my favorite rice dishes, and it's a one-pot recipe that cooks up so easily on the stove.
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Whether you know it as Johnny Marzetti, American Chop Suey, or Beefaroni, this flavor-charged version of homemade Hamburger Helper combines seasoned ground beef and sausage, elbow macaroni, and rich tomato umami for a deeply craveable comfort food dinner.
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Smash Burger Tacos are having a well-deserved moment, both for flavor and ease. Smooshed flat, a beef patty cooks up quickly into that crave-worthy, crispy-edged round of goodness we know and love. For a party spread, I'd suggest using street taco shells, for nice, portable taco bites.
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Veggie-stuffed and overflowing with lots of homemade guacamole, savory black beans, crunchy corn, and red bell peppers, these Loaded Vegetarian Guacamole Tacos are full-on delicioso.
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Sliders are always a party favorite! Inspired by the classic Muffuletta sandwich, these adorable Muffuletta Sliders have NOLA vibes with hints of Italy, stuffed with cold cuts, cheeses, and a briny olive salad whose juices soak so deliciously into the bread that you don’t even need condiments.
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Sweets
It’s just not Valentine’s season without a selection of sweets. Chocolate-dipped strawberries are always a hit, but if you’re in the mood to do a little baking, these sweet treats will hit the spot.
A pavlova is always a showstopper dessert, and these Mini Pavlova versions are easier to handle than the usual cake-size. For all of its dramatic appearance, they're actually quite easy to make and will bring ooohs and aaahs at your gathering. My recipe includes a luscious homemade tangerine curd, but you can substitute strawberry or raspberry preserves for a party-themed shortcut.
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Chocolatey, fudgy, rich, and satisfying, these Mocha Vegan Brownies are a chocolate-lover's treat, and so easy to make: no machines needed!
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These darling pink Cherry Blossom Macarons are the perfect two-bite sweet nibble for your dessert table. Macarons have their challenges, but when done right, they're something special!
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The classic campfire treat reimagined, S'mores in a Jar is the perfect dessert for any holiday occasion and combines fun, flavor, and convenience! These aren't just s'mores; they're a delightful twist on the beloved treat, baked to perfection in adorable single-serving mason jars. Each jar is a self-contained world of gooey, chocolatey, marshmallowy goodness, capturing the essence of s'mores … without the usual mess.
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There's a whole lotta good to be said for the reliable chocolate chip cookie. These XXL Soft-Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies are real crowd-pleasers and irresistible nibbles.
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Delicate swirls of color decorate these tender, tangerine-vanilla-flavored Meringue Swirls. Stunning on the table, and so light and tasty after an evening of indulgent nibbles. The striping is surprisingly easy, and you can use any gel color you want.
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Tender and delightfully chocolatey, Chocolate Marshmallow Shortbread Bars have a creamy marshmallow filling that melts into the shortbread cookie and creates a soft, crave-worthy cookie bar.
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And last but not least on the sweets, I present Drunken S'mores Bars, the grown-up take on the classic dessert. Rum and chocolate were just meant to be.
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Beverages
You’ll need something to wash down all the amazing nibbles at your party. Whether spiked or simply hydrating, don’t forget to provide a selection of sippables.
This is my top bevvie reco for the evening! It's been a long day, and your menu is probably filled with decadent — and salty — offerings. Keep everyone hydrated with lots of tasty water on ice. You don't have to go overboard with the fruit, as i did in the photos. Some citrus, strawberries, cherries, maybe a few fresh mint leaves, and a splash of sparkling water for the glasses, creates a tasty pitcher of water.
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A beautiful Holiday Party Punch that takes mere minutes to make and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Fruity and effervescent, with gorgeous coloring, this Party Punch shines at all types of gatherings, from festive parties to cozy fireplace evenings with the besties. Non-alcoholic with suggestions to make it otherwise.
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Add a refreshing twist to your holiday celebrations with these Zesty Lemon Lime Mojitos, a big-batch cocktail that's perfect for parties! These mojitos blend the tangy goodness of lemons and limes with the invigorating spice of ginger, creating a taste sensation that's both invigorating and delicious. Prepared in a large batch, these mojitos are party-sized, allowing you to spend less time mixing drinks and more time mingling with your guests.
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Black Cherry Champagne Floats, made with cherries, cherry liqueur, vanilla bean ice cream and, of course, Champagne. It’s sweet and bubbly and delightful, and a unique tipple to top off a joyful evening with your besties.
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Toast to your besties and cherished shared memories with this delicious New Year's Margarita, the perfect addition to your special celebrations! It doesn't have to be New Years to indulge in this deliciously fruity and frosty concoction, crafted to add an extra sparkle to your festivities.
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I hope this list of Galentine’s Day inspired menu items helps you create a fun and memorable party for the special friends in your life!
