Thanksgiving Dip Recipes

Look, here’s a way to save your Thanksgiving appetizer spread from that sad tray of baby carrots that nobody touches.

Dips, people! Not just any dips.

Ridiculously good, conversation-starting dips that will have your relatives actually behaving for five minutes.

Forget that store-bought garbage your cheap cousin brings every year. We all know it’s $3.99 from Aldi, Carol.

There are game-changing recipes that will make everyone temporarily forget they hate each other’s political opinions and enjoy a few cocktails in peace.

Thanksgiving Dip Recipes

Look, I’ve got dip recipes that’ll make your basic-ass Thanksgiving spread actually worth showing up for!

Roasted Pumpkin Sage Dip

This creamy roasted pumpkin sage dip brings the essence of fall flavors to your Thanksgiving table with its warm, earthy notes that perfectly complement everything from crispy crackers to fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 small Sugar pumpkin (about 2–3 pounds)
• 3 tbsp Olive oil, divided
• 1 small Onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped Fresh sage leaves
• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Maple syrup
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Toasted pumpkin seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil and roast for 40-45 minutes until fork-tender.
2. While the pumpkin roasts, heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and sage to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Once the pumpkin is cooled enough to handle, scoop out the flesh and place in a food processor.
5. Add the sautéed onion mixture, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and transfer to a serving bowl.
7. Garnish with additional fresh sage leaves and toasted pumpkin seeds before serving.
8. Serve warm with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.

Cheddar & Ale Hot Dip

This warm, rich Cheddar & Ale Hot Dip combines the sharpness of aged cheddar with the complex flavors of ale for a decadent Thanksgiving appetizer that’ll have everyone hovering around the snack table before the turkey even comes out.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded Sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Ale or beer (preferably a malty amber ale)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp Smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp chopped Green onions
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Pretzels, Bread cubes or Crackers, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually stir in the ale, mixing well after each addition to prevent the mixture from separating.
4. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, saving the rest for topping.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 1-quart baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbly with the cheese melted on top.
7. Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
8. Serve hot with pretzels, bread cubes or your favorite crackers.

Honey Roasted Carrot Hummus

This sweet and savory hummus transforms roasted carrots into a velvety dip that brings fall flavors to your Thanksgiving appetizer spread while keeping things light before the big meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large Carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 tbsp Olive oil, divided
• 2 tbsp Honey
• 1 (15 oz) can Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 tbsp Tahini
• 2 cloves Garlic
• Juice of 1 Lemon
• 1 tsp Ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Cinnamon
• Pinch of Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fresh Thyme, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the carrots with 1 tablespoon olive oil and the honey, then spread them on the baking sheet.
3. Roast the carrots for about 25-30 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
4. Let the roasted carrots cool for about 10 minutes.
5. In a food processor, combine the roasted carrots, chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, remaining olive oil, cumin, salt, cinnamon and cayenne if using.
6. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed and adding a bit of water if the mixture is too thick.
7. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh thyme.
8. Serve with pita chips, crackers or fresh vegetables.

Sausage & Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip

This Sausage & Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip combines savory and sweet flavors in a creamy, festive appetizer that’s perfect for your Thanksgiving spread with its seasonal cranberry twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground sausage (breakfast or Italian)
• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped Green onions
• 1/2 cup Sour cream
• 1 tbsp Maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp Ground sage
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Crackers, Crostini or Breadsticks, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces while cooking.
2. Drain excess grease from the sausage and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
4. Add the cooked sausage, dried cranberries, and green onions to the cream cheese mixture.
5. Stir in maple syrup, garlic powder, sage, salt and pepper until everything is well combined.
6. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
7. Serve cold or at room temperature with crackers, crostini or breadsticks.
8. Garnish with extra cranberries and green onions if desired.

Maple Bacon Corn Dip

This creamy Maple Bacon Corn Dip combines sweet and savory flavors that will have your Thanksgiving guests coming back for more throughout the holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices Bacon, chopped
• 3 cups Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Sour cream
• 1/4 cup Maple syrup
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 3 Green onions, sliced
• 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp Smoked paprika
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Additional Bacon bits and Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain, reserving 1 tablespoon bacon grease in the pan.
3. Add corn to the skillet with bacon grease and cook until slightly charred, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream and maple syrup until smooth.
5. Stir in the cooked corn, most of the bacon pieces (save some for topping), shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder and smoked paprika.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
7. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with remaining bacon bits and sliced green onions.
8. Serve warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices.

Whipped Feta with Pomegranate

This creamy whipped feta dip topped with juicy pomegranate seeds brings a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors that will wow your Thanksgiving guests before the main course.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz Feta cheese, at room temperature
• 4 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp Olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp Honey
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• 1/2 cup Pomegranate arils (seeds)
• 2 tbsp chopped Fresh mint leaves
• Pita chips, Crackers or Crudités, for serving

Instructions:

1. Add the feta cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, honey and black pepper to a food processor.
2. Process until completely smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Transfer the whipped feta to a serving bowl and create a shallow well in the center using the back of a spoon.
4. Drizzle with additional olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds and chopped mint leaves over the top.
6. Serve immediately with pita chips, crackers or fresh vegetables.

Turkey Club Layered Dip

This layered Turkey Club Dip transforms the classic sandwich into a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers or creating a festive holiday starter.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup chopped Leftover turkey (or deli turkey)
• 8 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded Lettuce
• 1 cup diced Tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced Red onion
• 1/4 cup sliced Green onions
• 2 tbsp chopped Fresh parsley
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Crackers, Pita chips or Bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, salt and pepper until smooth.
2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on the bottom of a shallow serving dish.
3. Layer the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cream cheese mixture.
4. Add a layer of chopped turkey.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the turkey layer.
6. Top with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, red onion and green onions.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
9. Serve with crackers, pita chips or bread slices for dipping.

Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Dip

This vibrant roasted beet and goat cheese dip brings a stunning pop of color and earthy sweetness to your Thanksgiving spread, making it a conversation starter that pairs perfectly with crudités, crackers or toasted bread.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium Beets, scrubbed and trimmed
• 2 tbsp Olive oil, divided
• 8 oz Goat cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Honey
• 1/4 cup Walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 2 tbsp chopped Fresh herbs (like thyme, chives, or dill)
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Rub beets with 1 tablespoon olive oil and wrap individually in foil. Roast for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Let beets cool, then peel and roughly chop them.
3. In a food processor, combine roasted beets, goat cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, honey and remaining olive oil.
4. Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, top with toasted walnuts, fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
7. Serve with your favorite crackers, pita chips or vegetable crudités.

Cheesy Brussels Sprout Dip

This creamy, cheesy brussels sprout dip transforms the sometimes-controversial veggie into a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for your Thanksgiving spread because it combines holiday flavors with a warm, comforting texture that guests will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Sour cream
• 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on the baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until they get a little crispy and browned.
3. While the sprouts roast, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, parmesan, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl.
4. Once the brussels sprouts are done, let them cool slightly then roughly chop them.
5. Fold the roasted brussels sprouts into the cheese mixture, then transfer everything to a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the top with panko breadcrumbs and a little extra parmesan.
7. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
8. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or veggie sticks.

Warm Apple Cinnamon Dessert Dip

This creamy, decadent warm apple cinnamon dip brings all the flavors of fall to your Thanksgiving dessert table, offering guests a sweet alternative to traditional pies while still capturing the essence of the season.Ingredients:

• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup Brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Powdered sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp Ground cloves
• 1 cup diced Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1/3 cup Caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1/4 cup chopped Walnuts or Pecans

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add the brown sugar, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the cream cheese mixture and beat until well combined.
3. Fold in the diced apples and caramel sauce until evenly distributed throughout the dip.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or oven-safe serving bowl.
5. Bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until warm and slightly bubbly around the edges.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with additional caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
7. Serve warm with graham crackers, cinnamon pita chips, apple slices, or vanilla wafers for dipping.

Herb & Parmesan Whipped Ricotta Dip

This creamy Herb & Parmesan Whipped Ricotta Dip brings a light, elegant touch to your Thanksgiving spread with its fluffy texture and savory flavor profile that perfectly complements both raw veggies and crusty bread.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tbsp Olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp finely chopped Fresh chives
• 2 tbsp finely chopped Fresh basil
• 1 tbsp Fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp Lemon zest
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• Salt and Black pepper, to taste
• (Optional) Red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Place the ricotta cheese in a food processor and process until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the Parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the food processor and blend until fully combined and fluffy.
3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the fresh herbs, reserving some for garnish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with additional olive oil, sprinkle with remaining herbs and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Let the dip rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve with crudités, crackers, or toasted bread for a delightful Thanksgiving appetizer.

Cran-Orange Creamy Dessert Dip

This sweet and tangy Cran-Orange Creamy Dessert Dip combines the festive flavors of Thanksgiving in a delicious treat that’s perfect for dipping graham crackers, cookies or fresh fruit slices during your holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Powdered sugar
• 1 cup chopped Fresh cranberries
• 2 tbsp Orange zest
• 1 tbsp Orange juice
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup Dried cranberries, for garnish
• 1 tbsp Honey (optional)
• Pinch of Cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
2. Fold in the chopped fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cranberry-cream cheese mixture until well combined.
5. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with dried cranberries and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to blend together.
7. Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies or fresh fruit slices.