At parties or during the holidays, the dinner is the star of the show — but that doesn’t mean there’s no room for some tempting appetizers in the hours before the main meal!
Dips are party favorites because they’re so versatile. You can serve them alongside things like carrots, celery, cucumbers, cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, chicken wings, crackers, chips, crostini, or as part of a canapé. (Of course, for some dips, you will need to pair them with something sturdy enough to meet the challenge. Nobody likes losing a thin chip in a thick dip.)
Here, we found 12 fantastic dips for you to try — some served cool, some warm — and with enough variety that you should be able to find just what the guests at your celebration will love. Take a look, mix up a few batches, and watch your friends and family clean out the bowls in record time!
Spicy Southern hot corn dip
A dip or a side? That’s up to you! Of her Spicy Southern hot corn dip recipe, Jenn over at Peas and Crayons says, “I’ve got to say, my favorite way to eat this spicy creamed corn is alongside a plateful of holiday sides and mains.”
Avocado ranch dip
This gorgeous green Avocado ranch dip recipe from Natasha’s Kitchen is simple and versatile — it can be a dip or a dressing. Smooth, cool and creamy, this is a must-try even for people who haven’t already fallen in love with avocados. You can even make it a little more festive by adding a few pomegranate seeds to the top!
Everything white bean dip
Chickpea hummus — you better watch out! This Everything white bean dip recipe from Budget Bytes is easier to make (mainly because it doesn’t require tahini), less expensive (uses navy or cannellini beans), and so versatile (it blends well with lots of different ingredients and toppings). You can also serve it jut like traditional hummus, adding a swirl of olive oil and sprinkling on a little paprika for color.
Buffalo chicken dip
This Crock Pot Buffalo chicken dip recipe from Homemade Food Junkie doesn’t only work in a slow cooker — you can use your Instant Pot to make it, too! It gets much of its flavor from Frank’s buffalo hot sauce, the star of this recipe.
Bacon and caramelized onion dip
Here is a beautiful combination of two sublime flavors: bacon and caramelized onions. In our our Bacon and caramelized onion dip onions get smooth and sweet, while the the bacon adds a salty crunch.
Homemade French onion dip
Sweet caramelized onions are front and center in this Homemade French onion dip recipe from Divas Can Cook, and how they shine! “You’d probably be really surprised at how easy making French onion dip from scratch is,” says Monique from DCC. “It’s the waiting overnight that destroys me! The flavors of this dip becomes INSANE once it’s had time to sit in the fridge overnight.”
Roasted beet hummus
If you’re looking for a dip with a real wow factor, this is the one for you! Minimalist Baker’s roasted beet hummus recipe doesn’t just taste incredible — its hot pinky-purple color is a showstopper. Even if you aren’t a fan of beets, give this dip a try — it will probably surprise you!
Spinach and artichoke dip
In this Spinach and artichoke dip recipe from Bakers Royale, three greens — artichokes, spinach and leeks — combine here with garlic and capers to create a flavor powerhouse! They’re all blended with a base of whipped ricotta cheese and sour cream.
Queso blanco dip
Ready for a little Mexican flavor flair? That’s what you will get from this cheesy slow cooker appetizer! This Queso blanco dip recipe from Life in the Lofthouse is served warm, and while it pair perfectly with tortilla chips, almost any snack will benefit from its creamy goodness.
Pimento cheese spread “pumpkin”
While not strictly a dip, this one was too cute not to include — because what could be more fun for fall than a savory pumpkin-shaped appetizer? This Pimento cheese spread “pumpkin” recipe from This Mama Cooks is based on the pimento cheese spread that’s super-popular in the South, but this version is a little healthier (and a lot more autumnal).
3-ingredient chili cheese dip
Need a quick and tasty dip to serve pronto? Try this 3-ingredient chili cheese dip recipe from Amanda’s Cookin’. She says that one of the best things about it is that you can whip up a batch in just minutes — meaning it’s ready to serve to guests almost immediately.
Best clam dip recipe
If you haven’t tried clam dip, you may be surprised at how delicious this simple combination of ingredients can be — even if you’re not a big fan of seafood. In this Best clam dip recipe from Foodie Crush, a smooth cream cheese surrounds minced clams, Worcestershire sauce and other flavorful ingredients to create a simple party favorite!
