29 Dips To Distract From The Fact You Forgot To Cook

No one will even blink at the lack of a main course when faced with 29 bowls of creamy, chunky, and spicy distractions. Plates pile up, laughs get louder, and before you know it, they’re praising your “spread.” Little do they know it’s all smoke and mirrors. Mission: Forget You Forgot achieved.

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm and creamy, this dip combines a rich texture with a bold flavor that makes it hard to resist. Spinach Artichoke Dip feels hearty and indulgent. Pair it with some crunchy bread or tortilla chips to make it even better. It’s the sort of dip you’d reach for when you want something classic but packed with personality.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips.
Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A crowd favorite, Rotel Dip mixes a touch of spice with its creamy base, making it perfect for game nights. It’s versatile enough to go with chips, crackers, or veggies. The kick of flavor keeps things interesting while still being comforting. This one’s quick to whip together when you need something fun and foolproof.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

Marinara Sauce

A glass jar filled with tomato sauce sits on a plate. Two spoons are beside it. A small bowl is in the background, slightly out of focus.
Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple yet flavorful, Marinara Sauce works as a great dip for fried goodies, breadsticks, or even pizza crusts. It’s smooth with tiny bursts of tanginess that feel just right. You can rely on its no-frills charm to complement just about anything savory. If you’re short on time, this dip can save the day effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Marinara Sauce

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of creaminess, spice, and crunch come together wonderfully in 7 Layer Dip. Each scoop feels like you’re grabbing a little bit of everything. It’s colorful, filling, and always a hit at casual gatherings. Serve it with tortilla chips and watch everyone happily dig in.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

French Onion Dip

Bowl of creamy dip topped with chopped chives and black pepper, next to pieces of toasted bread.
French Onion Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth and loaded with bold onion flavor, French Onion Dip pairs perfectly with crackers or chips. It’s the kind of dip people keep going back to without thinking twice. You don’t need anything fancy for this one—just a solid snack to dip into it. It’s timeless and always works in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Dip

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Close-up of a blue corn chip dipped in a creamy cheese and vegetable mixture, garnished with cilantro and sliced jalapeños.
Mexican Street Corn Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed with textures that balance creamy and crunchy, Mexican Street Corn Dip is hard to pass up. It has just enough spice to keep things interesting but doesn’t overpower. This one shines with tortilla chips or crusty bread. Whether it’s a party or a casual lunch, it fits right into an easy spread.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip

Dipping Sauce for Sweet Potato Fries

Dipping sauce in a small bowl surrounding by sweet potato cubes.
Dipping Sauce for Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and sweet with a tangy kick, Dipping Sauce for Sweet Potato Fries complements those fries beautifully. It doesn’t distract from the fries but enhances them instead. You’ll love having something unique to serve when sweet potato fries are on the menu. It’s simple and worth pulling together.
Get the Recipe: Dipping Sauce for Sweet Potato Fries

Blue Cheese Dressing

Blue cheese dressing in a serving bowl, you can see chunks of cheese and parsley.
Blue Cheese Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bold and creamy, Blue Cheese Dressing has a tang that makes it unexpected yet so good. It works with wings, veggie sticks, or even crackers when you want something rich. Though strong, there’s a perfect balance in its flavor profile that keeps it pleasant. For snack emergencies, this dressing never fails.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Dressing

Chick-fil-A Sauce

A bowl of smooth, creamy peanut butter with a hint of Chick-fil-A sauce and a spoon inside.
Chick-fil-A Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet with a savory twist, Chick-fil-A Sauce is undeniably versatile and works for so many snacks. It’s smooth and balanced, yet its flavor pops just enough to stand out. This one pairs nicely with chicken or fries and makes them even better. A favorite you’ll be glad you pulled out of the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Sauce

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli in a mixing bowl with a spoon in it, garlic cloves, and dill around it.
Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy with a bold garlic flavor, Garlic Aioli is a dip that instantly feels upscale without the fuss. Use it as a dip for fries, veggies, or even grilled snacks. Despite being so simple, its flavor packs enough punch to make everything taste better. If you want to keep things easy but flavorful, it’s perfect.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Basil Pesto

Homemade pesto in a cast iron dish with nuts and basil around it.
Basil Pesto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth and full of that distinct herb-forward flavor, Basil Pesto makes a statement. It’s great for dipping breadsticks or mixing into a snack board setup. You’ll love how it adds depth without feeling heavy or complicated. A little goes a long way when you want something fresh yet versatile on your table.
Get the Recipe: Basil Pesto

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

A bread bowl filled with a creamy dip, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Celery sticks are placed on the side.
Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hearty and indulgent, Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip is like comfort food in dip form. It’s loaded with creamy richness and some smoky flavors that feel like a treat. You’ll want to grab crackers, veggies, or chips to enjoy this one. If you need something that pleases everyone, this is the one to pick.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Sour Cream and Chives Dip

Sour cream and chives dressing in a bowl with chives and lemon around it.
Sour Cream and Chives Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cool, smooth, and wonderfully simple, Sour Cream and Chives Dip offers a refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with chips or veggies. Its light profile makes it a go-to when you’re craving something easy and fuss-free. It quickly disappears from the table because it’s just the right balance of creamy and bright.
Get the Recipe: Sour Cream and Chives Dip

Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe

Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Smoky and creamy, Lebanese Baba Ganoush feels fresh with every bite and stands out from most traditional dips. Pair it with warm bread or some crunchy vegetables for the best experience. It isn’t overwhelming, but it has enough flavor to get noticed. If you want variety, this dip couldn’t be a better choice.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe

Maple Syrup Ketchup

A hexagonal glass jar filled with creamy peanut butter sits on a wooden tray, with a metal spoon inside.
Maple Syrup Ketchup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet with a tangy twist, Maple Syrup Ketchup puts a unique spin on traditional ketchup. It pairs wonderfully with fries, chicken, or whatever needs a dip. Despite its slight sweetness, it doesn’t lose its savoriness and works with almost anything. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try it.
Get the Recipe: Maple Syrup Ketchup

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce spread over a pizza crust.
Pizza Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Slightly tangy and full of richness, Pizza Sauce isn’t just for pizza. It’s a great dip for breadsticks, cheese-filled snacks, or anything fried. Its simple, smooth flavor makes it hard to put down once you start dipping into it. Keep it handy when you need a no-bother option that always works well.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Chipotle Sauce

Creamy chipotle sauce with lime and herbs on a bright background.
Chipotle Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smoky with a hint of spice, Chipotle Sauce stands out as bold yet balanced. It’s perfect for drizzles or dips with fries, chicken, or veggies. The flavor keeps things interesting without being overwhelming. For times when you want something with a little kick, it’s just the thing to reach for.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Sauce

Creamy Avocado Sauce

Avocado sauce in a bowl with it's ingredients surrounding it.
Creamy Avocado Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth and mellow, Creamy Avocado Sauce is a dip that feels natural and easygoing. It pairs well with just about anything—veggies, chips, or sandwiches. Something is refreshing about how it balances creaminess with simple freshness. It’s a go-to option when you want a light addition to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Avocado Sauce

Tzatziki

Tzatziki in a bowl with sliced veggies surrounding it.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cool and tangy, Tzatziki really shines when served with veggies, pita bread, or anything grilled. Its creamy texture and subtle bite make it a great addition to snack time. It always feels light while still delivering solid flavor. If you’re hoping to keep things bright and simple, this one won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rich, creamy, and full of texture, Guacamole has a way of being the highlight of any snack setup. It’s perfect with chips, veggies, or even as a topping for wraps. You don’t need much for it to feel like an instant hit at the table. For quick and pleasing snacks, it’s always a great choice to dish out.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Spicy Greek Feta Dip

Spicy Greek feta dip in a bowl with pita bread by the side.
Spicy Greek Feta Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy with just the right amount of heat, Spicy Greek Feta Dip is a standout option for breadsticks or veggies. It’s bold enough to grab your attention but smooth enough to feel comforting. This dip works great when you need something different but still approachable. You’ll dig into this one again and again.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Greek Feta Dip

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet chili sauce in a small bowl on a light green cloth.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet with a light kick of spice, Thai Sweet Chili Sauce makes for an excellent partner to fried snacks or spring rolls. It’s smooth yet flavorful and adds that little extra excitement to each bite. You don’t have to overthink pairing—this sauce works with almost anything. Quick, easy, and never out of place.
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Caramelized Onion Hummus

Caramelized Onion Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy and loaded with deep flavor, Caramelized Onion Hummus offers a rich, savory twist on a classic favorite. It’s perfect with pita chips, crackers, or veggie sticks. You’ll appreciate how the onion gives it depth without overpowering its smooth simplicity. A dip that balances bold flavors with easy go-tos.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Onion Hummus

BBQ Sauce

Homemade BBQ sauce in a jar with two spoons by the side.
BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smoky, sweet, and versatile, BBQ Sauce is always a reliable dip for fries, wings, or even sandwiches. It’s bold without being complicated, making it foolproof for most gatherings. You won’t need much to make a snack feel special with this sauce. Keep it nearby when you want a dip with character but no hassle.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Sauce

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A spoon rests inside a glass jar filled with a thick, brown liquid.
Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Balanced and tangy with a little sweetness, Sweet and Sour Sauce works perfectly with fried snacks or roasted veggies. It feels light but packs just enough flavor in each bite to stand out. You’ll appreciate how it fits seamlessly into any snack setup without much effort. Great when you need something quick and fun.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Sriracha with Mayo

Sriracha aioli in a serving bowl and fries by the side of it.
Sriracha with Mayo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy with a spicy edge, Sriracha with Mayo is a dip for those who love a little heat with their snacks. It works beautifully alongside grilled goodies or fried treats for an easy pairing. Even with its kick, the creaminess keeps it enjoyable and approachable. A must-have for casual get-togethers or solo snack times.
Get the Recipe: Sriracha with Mayo

Million Dollar Dip

Close-up of a creamy dish topped with shredded cheese, chopped nuts, bacon bits, and sliced green onions.
Million Dollar Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Rich and packed with flavor, Million Dollar Dip feels indulgent with every bite. It pairs well with just about anything you can dip, from chips to veggies. It’s a crowd favorite, especially for gatherings where you want something bold yet easy to prep. Bring it out when you need a reliable option that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Dip

Garlic Dip

Garlic dip in a serving bowl with fries by it.
Garlic Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth and loaded with garlic flavor, Garlic Dip is a favorite for breadsticks, fries, or veggies. Its bold profile feels full-flavored without trying too hard. You’ll reach for this when you want something simple that packs flavor. It’s quick to grab, and honestly, it always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy with a bold punch of buffalo flavor, Buffalo Chicken Dip is perfect for game days or casual hangouts. Pair it with chips, crackers, or veggies, and everyone’s happy. It’s indulgent without feeling too heavy. A solid choice when you want something a little exciting but classic in its appeal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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