Slammin' Dunks! 8 Party Dips for March Madness - Other Holidays & Parties - Cooking

Slammin’ Dunks! 8 Party Dips for March Madness

1 Comment | Written on March 9, 2012 at 5:00 pm, by The Editors

dip recioes There’s no sporting event quite like March Madness — the steady march to victory through a succession of ranked opponents. When school pride is in full force, get-togethers to cheer on your team are almost mandatory. Dips are the perfect way to feed a roomful of hungry fans. No matter what kind of dip you set out, there’s bound to be a crowd huddled around it, happily submerging chips, crackers and veggies in a creamy pool of deliciousness.

Another benefit? Most dips can be put together well before your guests arrive, so there’s no rushing around, missing on-screen action because you’re stuck in the kitchen.

We’ve put together eight amazing dips that any host would be proud to serve, from a bubbling, cheesy Ruben dip to a “healthified” spinach-and-artichoke dip. Yes, we’ve included classics like Mexican seven-layer and creamy ranch dips, but also more innovative ideas, like a combo of crab and jalapeno and a sweet, creamy fruit dip.

So no more excuses! Call up your friends and invite them over for some games. Now that you’ve mastered dips, you’ve got the food all wrapped up.

Reuben Dip

Give a tip of the cap to whoever came up with this hot, creamy dip — it’s essentially made up of the best components of a Reuben sandwich. What to use for dipping? Rye crackers, of course.

Mexican Seven-Layer Dip

Seven-layer dips win on all counts. They’re attractive to look at, so they’re great for parties — but the net result of all those gorgeous colorful layers is flavor! Grab a corn chip and dip into your own personal fiesta.

Warm Jalapeno-Crab Dip

If you’re willing to splurge a little bit, there’s no better use for your dollar than sweet lump crab. Here, it’s paired with a hint of jalapeno heat and a generous amount of sharp white cheddar. Hint: You might want to make a double batch.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

All the flavors of Buffalo wings are packed into this flavorful dip. Using canned chicken makes it a snap to put together, and a liberal dash of hot sauce lends just enough heat to keep things interesting.

I-Can’t-Believe-I-Like-My-Veggies Ranch Dip

This quick and easy dip turns a packet of ranch mix into a creamy oasis for any vegetable under the sun. If you’ve got kids coming to the party, this one’s sure to be a winner.

“Healthified” Spinach Dip with Artichokes

Trying to keep things on the healthy side? No problem — this spinach-and-artichoke dip gives you a ton of rich cheesy flavor without all the calories. Serve it with baguette slices or veggies.

Cheesy Beer-Salsa Dip

Take advantage of your slow cooker and save time with this cheesy beer-salsa dip. It’s got three flavor profiles happening at once: rich cheese, malty beer, and mild spice — delicious! You can have it simmering away well before your friends arrive, so it’s hot and ready for crackers or bread sticks.

“Healthified” Fluffy Orange Fruit Dip

Looking for something sweet to bring out toward the end of the party? Don’t bother turning on the oven for cookies — surprise your guests with a sweet fruit dip instead. Vanilla extract and orange juice concentrate come together with cream cheese and yogurt to create a smooth, creamy partner for sliced fruit.