16 ’80s Party Snacks That Aren’t Served Today
Here's a fun list of party snacks that were big in the ’80s but are rarely served now.
- Daisy Montero
- 5 min read
These snacks were must-haves at every party in the ’80s. Some were cheesy, some were sweet, and all were full of flavor. You might remember a few or be surprised by what used to be popular. Either way, these treats bring back a lot of fun memories.
1. Cheesy Potato Skins
Missvain on Wikimedia Commons
These crispy potato halves were packed with melted cheddar, smoky bacon, and a dollop of sour cream. They were a guaranteed hit at any house party, often disappearing within minutes. Today, they are rarely served, but they still hold up as a classic comfort snack.
2. Mini Quiches
Jessica Spengler on Wikimedia Commons
These bite-sized quiches came filled with cheese, spinach, ham, or mushrooms, all tucked into buttery crusts. They felt fancy back then, even if they came from the freezer aisle. People loved how easy they were to serve and how quickly they disappeared from the table.
3. Seven-Layer Dip
A Healthier Michigan from Detroit, United States on Wikimedia Commons
This colorful dip stacked layers of beans, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, cheese, olives, and green onions. It was the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for scooping with tortilla chips. You rarely see it at parties now, but it still tastes like a flavor-packed time machine.
4. Spinach & Artichoke Bread Bowl
Karen and Brad Emerson on Wikimedia Commons
A warm, cheesy spinach and artichoke dip served inside a hollowed-out loaf of bread was the centerpiece of many ’80s snack tables. Guests would tear pieces of the bread bowl to scoop up the dip. It was equal parts tasty and fun, and always felt a little extra.
5. Pizza Rolls
Jason Lam on Wikimedia Commons
Tiny, crispy bites filled with gooey cheese, sauce, and bits of pepperoni — what’s not to love? These were quick to heat up and perfect for parties, sleepovers, or even after-school snacks. They may not be gourmet, but they were totally satisfying.
6. Oyster Sour-Cream Crostini
Vegan Feast Catering on Wikimedia Commons
This fancy finger food paired oysters with a creamy sour cream spread on toasted bread rounds. It added a touch of sophistication to ’80s parties, even if not everyone was brave enough to try it. It is rarely seen now, but it once made guests feel grown-up.
7. Cheese Fondue
Juliano Mendes on Wikimedia Commons
Everyone gathered around a bubbling pot of melted cheese, dipping cubes of bread, fruit, or veggies. It was both a snack and a social activity, turning eating into an event. While fondue has faded from everyday parties, its retro charm still makes it a standout.
8. Deviled Eggs
Steven Depolo on Wikimedia Commons
These creamy egg halves were a staple on every party platter, sprinkled with paprika and sometimes filled with creative ingredients. They were easy to grab and packed a tangy, savory bite. Though they feel old-fashioned today, they once ruled the snack table.
9. Sloppy Joe Nachos
JIP on Wikimedia Commons
These nachos took the messy magic of a Sloppy Joe and turned it into a shareable snack. Chips were topped with seasoned beef and melty cheese, creating a bold, slightly chaotic bite. They were far from elegant, but that was part of their charm.
10. Shrimp Cocktail
Ll1324 on Wikimedia Commons
Chilled shrimp served in a glass with tangy cocktail sauce felt fancy and fun. This snack made people feel like they were attending a classy event, even if it was just a backyard get-together. It is rarely served at casual parties today but once made a big splash.
11. Vol-au-Vents
Roozitaa on Wikimedia Commons
These delicate puff pastry shells were filled with creamy chicken, mushrooms, or tuna salad. They looked elegant and gave parties a touch of European flair. People felt like they were eating something special, even if the fillings came from a can.
12. Clams Casino
Ted Murphy on Wikimedia Commons
This dish featured clams baked with breadcrumbs, butter, and bacon for a rich and savory treat. It gave seafood lovers something to cheer about at parties. Though it feels more like a restaurant item now, it once showed up at many home gatherings.
13. Jelly-Glazed Meatballs
Zheng Zhou on Wikimedia Commons
These meatballs were slow-cooked in grape jelly and chili sauce until they were sweet, sticky, and full of flavor. They were easy to serve and even easier to eat with a toothpick. Guests never knew what was in the sauce, but they always asked for more.
14. Jello Poke Cake
Dlublink on Wikimedia Commons
This colorful dessert was made by poking holes in a cake and pouring in Jello, creating bright, wiggly patterns inside. It was fun to make and even more fun to slice and serve. The fruity flavors and cool texture made it a dessert table favorite.
15. Ambrosia Salad
Marshall Astor on Wikimedia Commons
A mix of whipped cream, fruit, marshmallows, and coconut, this sweet salad was like dessert disguised as a side dish. It showed up at both parties and potlucks, always served in a big glass bowl. Love it or hate it, it was unmistakably ’80s.
16. French Onion Soup Dip
Key West Wedding Photography on Wikimedia Commons
This creamy dip made from sour cream and a packet of French onion soup mix was a staple at ’80s parties. It was usually served with ridged potato chips for maximum scoop-ability. Simple, salty, and addictive, it was always gone before the party ended.