When it comes to hosting a party, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out what to serve your guests. As someone who loves to entertain, I have found that using a slow cooker is a game-changer when it comes to preparing delicious appetizers and dips. Not only does it make the cooking process easier, but it also allows you to enjoy the party without being stuck in the kitchen the whole time. Here are 30 slow cooker party food appetizers and dips that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Buffalo Chicken Dip:
One of my all-time favorite party dips is Buffalo Chicken Dip. It’s creamy, spicy, and perfect for dipping tortilla chips or veggies. Simply mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and ranch dressing in the slow cooker, and let it cook until it’s hot and bubbly. Your guests won’t be able to get enough of this crowd-pleaser.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip:
Another classic party dip that never disappoints is Spinach and Artichoke Dip. This creamy and cheesy dip is loaded with spinach, artichokes, and plenty of flavor. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook until it’s warm and gooey. Serve it with bread slices or crackers for a delicious appetizer.
BBQ Meatballs:
For a savory appetizer that’s always a hit, try making BBQ Meatballs in the slow cooker. These meatballs are smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that’s sure to please any crowd. Simply mix frozen meatballs with BBQ sauce, grape jelly, and Worcestershire sauce in the slow cooker, and let it cook until the meatballs are heated through.
Queso Dip:
No party is complete without a big bowl of Queso Dip. This cheesy and spicy dip is perfect for dipping tortilla chips, pretzels, or veggies. Simply combine Velveeta cheese, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and seasonings in the slow cooker, and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your guests will be coming back for seconds and thirds.
Taco Dip:
If you’re looking for a fun and festive appetizer, Taco Dip is the way to go. This layered dip is loaded with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheese, sour cream, and all your favorite taco toppings. Simply assemble the layers in the slow cooker, and let it cook until it’s warm and melty. Serve it with tortilla chips for a delicious and satisfying appetizer.
Crab Rangoon Dip:
For a more unique party dip, try making Crab Rangoon Dip in the slow cooker. This creamy and flavorful dip is loaded with crab meat, cream cheese, green onions, and seasonings. Simply mix all the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook until it’s hot and bubbly. Serve it with wonton chips or crackers for a delicious and elegant appetizer.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders:
If you’re looking for a more substantial appetizer, try making Buffalo Chicken Sliders in the slow cooker. These mini sandwiches are filled with shredded buffalo chicken, blue cheese dressing, and coleslaw. Simply cook the chicken in the slow cooker, shred it, and assemble the sliders with your favorite toppings. Your guests will love these tasty and satisfying sandwiches.
Swedish Meatballs:
For a classic and comforting appetizer, try making Swedish Meatballs in the slow cooker. These tender and flavorful meatballs are smothered in a rich and creamy gravy that’s perfect for dipping. Simply mix frozen meatballs with cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and seasonings in the slow cooker, and let it cook until the meatballs are heated through. Serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Jalapeno Popper Dip:
If you’re a fan of spicy food, you’ll love Jalapeno Popper Dip. This creamy and cheesy dip is loaded with diced jalapenos, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and bacon. Simply mix all the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook until it’s warm and bubbly. Serve it with tortilla chips or crackers for a delicious and fiery appetizer.
Pulled Pork Sliders:
For a hearty and flavorful appetizer, try making Pulled Pork Sliders in the slow cooker. These mini sandwiches are filled with tender pulled pork, barbecue sauce, and coleslaw. Simply cook the pork in the slow cooker until it’s falling apart, shred it, and assemble the sliders with your favorite toppings. Your guests will love these delicious and satisfying sandwiches.
Chili Cheese Dip:
For a warm and comforting appetizer, try making Chili Cheese Dip in the slow cooker. This cheesy and hearty dip is loaded with chili, cheese, and seasonings. Simply combine canned chili, Velveeta cheese, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and seasonings in the slow cooker, and let it cook until it’s hot and bubbly. Serve it with tortilla chips or corn chips for a delicious and satisfying appetizer.
French Onion Dip:
If you’re a fan of classic flavors, you can’t go wrong with French Onion Dip. This rich and flavorful dip is loaded with caramelized onions, sour cream, and seasonings. Simply mix all the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook until the flavors meld together. Serve it with potato chips or veggies for a delicious and nostalgic appetizer.
Mac and Cheese Bites:
For a fun and kid-friendly appetizer, try making Mac and Cheese Bites in the slow cooker. These bite-sized snacks are made with creamy mac and cheese that’s been shaped into balls and fried until crispy. Simply cook the mac and cheese in the slow cooker, shape it into balls, and fry them until golden brown. Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping.
Bacon-Wrapped Smokies:
For a savory and indulgent appetizer, try making Bacon-Wrapped Smokies in the slow cooker. These bite-sized snacks are made with cocktail sausages wrapped in crispy bacon. Simply wrap each sausage in a strip of bacon, secure it with a toothpick, and cook them in the slow cooker until the bacon is crispy. Serve them with barbecue sauce for dipping.
Philly Cheesesteak Dip:
If you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, you’ll love Philly Cheesesteak Dip. This creamy and flavorful dip is loaded with shredded beef, onions, peppers, and plenty of cheese. Simply mix all the ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it cook until it’s warm and melty. Serve it with bread slices or crackers for a delicious and satisfying appetizer.
Caramelized Onion Dip:
For a more upscale appetizer, try making Caramelized Onion Dip in the slow cooker. This rich and flavorful dip is loaded with sweet and savory caramelized onions, sour cream, and seasonings. Simply cook the onions until they’re soft and golden brown, then mix them with the other ingredients in the slow cooker. Let it cook until the flavors meld together, and serve it with potato chips or veggies for a delicious and elegant appetizer.
Pulled Chicken Sliders:
For a lighter and healthier appetizer option, try making Pulled Chicken Sliders in the slow cooker. These mini sandwiches are filled with tender pulled chicken, barbecue sauce, and coleslaw. Simply cook the chicken in the slow cooker until it’s falling apart, shred it, and assemble the sliders with your favorite toppings. Your guests will love these tasty and satisfying sandwiches without the guilt.
Sausage and Pepper Dip:
For a savory and flavorful appetizer, try making Sausage and Pepper Dip in the slow cooker. This hearty dip is loaded with Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and plenty of cheese. Simply cook the sausage and peppers in the slow cooker, mix in the cheese and seasonings, and let it cook until it’s hot and bubbly. Serve it with bread slices or crackers for a delicious and satisfying appetizer.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, using a slow cooker to make party food appetizers and dips is a great way to save time and effort while still serving delicious and crowd-pleasing dishes. Whether you’re a fan of classic dips like Buffalo Chicken Dip and Spinach Artichoke Dip, or you prefer more unique options like Crab Rangoon Dip and Philly Cheesesteak Dip, there’s something for everyone on this list. So next time you’re hosting a party, consider using your slow cooker to whip up some tasty appetizers and dips that will impress your guests and leave you free to enjoy the festivities. Cheers to good food and good times!