Diva Q BBQ

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Traeger Recipes & Grilling Expert

My name is Danielle Bennett, and I am a Pitmaster and Traeger Recipes & Grilling Expert here to help you master the pit. Life is too short for bad BBQ!

2972 Westheimer Rd. Santa Ana, Illinois 85486

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Before the Meal

Superior Snackage: Smoked Appetizers & Finger Foods

Often, the best part of the cookout isn’t the main course; it’s the “Superior Snackage” that happens while the big meats are resting. This collection of BBQ Appetizers & Snacks is designed to kick off your party with a bang. From addictive smoked party snacks to classic bacon-wrapped appetizers, these small bites pack a massive punch.

Whether you are prepping Game-day BBQ food or just a prelude to dinner, these recipes ensure nobody goes hungry while waiting for the brisket to finish.

Rules

Diva’s 3 Rules for Superior Snackage

Bold Flavors Win

Small bites need big taste. Since your guests are only eating one or two pieces, do not hold back on the spice, the glaze, or the smoke. This is the perfect place to experiment with hotter rubs that might be too intense for a full meal.

No Utensils Required

True Grilled Finger Foods should be eaten with one hand (so you can hold a drink in the other). If you need a knife and fork, it is a side dish, not an appetizer. Keep it portable.

Bacon is a Tool

Bacon does more than just taste good; it acts as insulation. Wrapping jalapeños, shrimp, or meatballs in bacon protects the food inside from drying out while adding that signature salty, smoky crunch.

Diva’s 3 Rules for Superior Snackage

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RECIPES

Perfect Pairings

Perfect Appetizers and

Perfect Pairings

Snacks are meant to be social, so the beverage is just as important as the bite. Pair these BBQ appetizers with a cold drink from Bottoms Up. Also, many of these finger foods benefit from a great dipping sauce, so explore
Rubs & Sauces to find the perfect condiment.

Have a Question

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best BBQ appetizers for a large crowd?
When feeding an army, think about "bulk" items that are easy to assemble. "Moink Balls" (bacon-wrapped meatballs), smoked cream cheese, or a massive skillet of smoked queso are winners. They are easy to replenish and keep warm on the smoker.
For Game-day BBQ food, you want low-maintenance recipes so you can watch the game. Smoked Chex Mix, pig shots (sausage slices wrapped in bacon), and jalapeño poppers are classics. They cook relatively quickly and stay delicious even at room temperature.
Unlike brisket which goes "low and slow," most appetizers do better at higher temperatures, usually around 275°F to 325°F. You want to render the bacon or crisp up the exterior quickly without drying out the small portion of meat inside.
In fact, most bacon-wrapped appetizers hold their shape better if you assemble them the night before and let them chill in the fridge. This sets the bacon and allows the rubs to adhere, so all you have to do is throw them on the grill when guests arrive.
A Moink Ball is a BBQ classic. The name comes from the sounds the animals make: "Moo" (Beef meatballs) + "Oink" (Bacon wrapper). It is a frozen or homemade beef meatball, wrapped in bacon, smoked, and glazed with BBQ sauce. Simple, but legendary.
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Get the Party Started Right with Superior BBQ Snacks and Appetizers

Don’t let your guests starve while the main course stalls. “Superior Snackage” sets the tone for the whole event. Try a few of these small bites, and I guarantee they might just steal the show.

Tag me in your game day spreads, I want to see what you are snacking on!