Appetizer Catering for Events and Receptions

Appetizer Catering for Events and Receptions

Planning a reception, open house, or hosted event? IU Catering offers appetizer catering for events, with a range of small bites and reception packages ideal for mingling and social gatherings.

Our menu includes classic canapés and chef-crafted hors d'oeuvres, with flexible options for cocktail hours, networking events, and campus receptions. Selections can be tailored to your event size, timing, guest preferences, and service style.

How to Order from IU Catering 

IU Catering will help you create a menu that fits your vision, your guests, and your budget. Ask about allergen-friendly options.

Getting started is simple:

Submit a catering inquiry   Questions? Contact us!

Typical Reception Menu Structure

Appetizer catering is often part of a broader event setup. A typical reception may include:

  • 3–6 passed appetizer selections
  • One or more display-style options
  • Beverage or bar service

Our team helps determine the right combination based on guest count, event duration, and service approach.

Service Styles for Appetizers

Choose the service style that best fits your event:

Passed Hors D’oeuvres

  • Served by staff
  • Ideal for formal receptions and networking events

Displayed Appetizers

  • Self-serve or attended stations 
  • Well-suited for open houses and casual receptions

Reception Highlights

Appetizer catering provides small, ready-to-serve foods, such as canapés and hors d’oeuvres, typically served at standing or social-format events.

Appetizer catering is commonly used for:

  • Receptions and open houses
  • Cocktail hours
  • Networking events
  • Campus and corporate gatherings

Menu options include:

  • Classic canapés
  • Chef-crafted hors d’oeuvres
  • Seasonal small bites

Options can be tailored by guest count, dietary needs, and service style, including passed appetizers, display tables, or stations.

Light Appetizers

Classic small bites that are easy to enjoy while standing or socializing. Ideal for lighter receptions or pre-meal service. All items priced per dozen unless otherwise indicated.

  • Deviled Eggs– $20
    Classic with pickles and mustard or with Fisher Farms bacon
  • Smoked Salmon Mousse– $20
    Served on cucumber crostini
  • Tea Sandwiches– $36
    Chicken salad, cucumber & herbed ricotta, or tuna salad

Chef-Crafted Hors D’oeuvres

Elevated selections featuring bold flavors and seasonal ingredients. All items priced per dozen unless otherwise indicated.

  • Artichoke Beignets – $36
    Served with sunflower seed romesco
  • Black Pepper Bacon Brussels Sprouts – $36
  • Bruschetta – $18
    Fig & blue cheese, prosciutto and arugula, blackberry herbed ricotta cheese, or tomatoes & mozzarella cheese
  • Candied Apple Pork Belly Skewers – $60
  • Chicken Wings – $36
    Served with choice of 2 sauces: BBQ, buffalo, ranch, or Thai sweet chili
  • Coconut Shrimp – $60
  • Empanadas – $36
    Chicken, beef, or black bean & cheese
  • Jackfruit Cakes – $60
    Served with mango salsa 
  • Meatballs – $24
    BBQ, Italian, or Swedish
  • Mini Burgers (served plain) – $36
    Black bean, or Fischer Farms beef
  • Peach BBQ Brisket Skewer – $60
  • Pigs in a Blanket – $24
    Served with honey mustard
  • Puff Pastry Tartines – $24
    Spinach & artichoke or wild mushroom
  • Spanakopita – $24
    Served with tzatziki sauce
  • Tandoori Chicken Skewers – $18
    Served with cilantro chutney
  • Vegetable Samosa – $24
  • Vegetable Spring Rolls – $24
    Served with sweet & sour sauce

The Cream Reception – $16

  • Cubed Cheese Tray
    Served with crackers
  • Fresh Vegetable Crudites
    Served with house ranch dip
  • Pretzels and Potato Chips
    Served with French onion dip
  • House Hummus
    Served with fresh pita

The Crimson Reception – $20

  • Assortment of Cheeses
    Served with crackers and crostini, grapes, and jam
  • Fresh Vegetable Crudites
    Served with house ranch dip and hummus
  • Fresh Sliced Seasonal Fruit Display
  • Crazy Charlie's Salsa and Tortilla Chips
  • House Roasted Mixed Nuts

The Hoosier Reception – $26

  • Assortment of Cheeses and Charcuterie
    Served with crackers and crostini, grapes, and jam
  • Roasted and Raw Seasonal Vegetable Display
    Served with house hummus and ranch
  • Fresh Sliced Seasonal Fruit Display
  • Warm Spinach and Artichoke Dip
    Served with house made pita and crostini