Hearty, delicious comfort food is a surefire crowd-pleaser. These mouthwatering apps are sure to get the party started as soon as your guests walk in the door.

Chicken and Waffle Bites

Chicken and Waffles Appetizer
Photo courtesy of House of Earnest


Photo courtesy of House of Earnest

A tangy maple-Sriracha glaze coats these petite versions of the classic combo. Skewer 'em to prevent sticky hands. Get the recipe at House of Earnest.

Pulled Pork Biscuits

<p>Savory pulled pork is sandwiched between homemade mini biscuits in this delicious party dish. <br /><br /> <strong>Recipe:</strong> <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/recipefinder/pulled-pork-biscuits-recipe target=">Pulled Pork & Biscuits</a></p>
Don Freeman


Photo by Don Freeman

Sandwich savory pulled pork between buttery homemade biscuits. Or, for a quick shortcut, opt for an already-made variety. We love the small size of Callie's Charleston Biscuits. Top the slider-style dish with sauce or 'slaw of your choice. Get the recipe.

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Easy Pickles

<p>"'Beit Alpha' isn't your usual pickling cucumber, but it's perfect for this eat-right-away snack." <em>—Deborah Madison, author of Seasonal Fruit Desserts</em></p>
<p><strong>Recipe:</strong> <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/recipefinder/quick-sweet-pickles-recipe-clv0412" target="_blank">Quick Sweet Pickles</a></p>
John Kernick


Photo by John Kernick

Make quick refrigerator pickles from beit alpha cukes and sprigs of dill. Get the recipe.

Cherith Valley's thick "Hot 'n' Spicy" rounds deliver a lively kick, courtesy of red jalapeños and garlic cloves.<br/><br/> <i>($8.95 for 32 oz.; 800-610-9813 for stores)</i>
J Muckle, Studio D


Photo by J Muckle/Studio D

Or, set out some pre-made options such as Cherith Valley's thick "Hot 'n' Spicy" rounds, which boast a zesty kick courtesy of jalapeños and garlic cloves. ($8.95 for 32 oz.; 800-610-9813 for stores)

What's your favorite Southern-style appetizer?

This article originally appeared on Countryliving.com.

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