19 Ooey Gooey Appetizers That Keep Everyone Gathered Around the Table

Appetizers that melt and stretch are hard to beat. Who doesn’t love creamy centers with crisp edges and ooey, gooey cheese pulls ready for Instagram? These bites are usually the first thing people reach for, and they often disappear quickly. They work well for everything from football Sundays to casual weeknight gatherings. Nothing signals “settle in and enjoy” like these satisfying, easy-to-share starters.

Image shows delicious homemade nacho cheese.

Homemade Nacho Cheese. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites

Image shows a hand holding a quarter of a Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bite with more on a white tray in the background.
Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Looking for gooey comfort in small bites? Muffin melts bake with a topping of cheese until golden and rich. Each one is bold without being fussy, simple but satisfying. They stand out as the kind of cheesy snack people always remember.

Get the Recipe: Boozy Bacon Cheddar Bites

Tuscan Artichoke and Sundried Tomato

Tuscan Artichoke and Sundried Tomato. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Looking for rich, gooey flavor in one bite? Tuscan dip with cheese, artichokes, and sundried tomatoes makes a creamy spread that feels special but stays easy. It has a tangy kick that pairs well with bread or vegetables. That balance of smooth and bold is why this cheesy dip is always a favorite.

Get the Recipe: Tuscan Artichoke and Sundried Tomato

Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip

Image shows irresistible hot bacon cheddar on a plate with crackers.
Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want an ooey gooey app that disappears fast? Bacon cheddar dip brings smoky, salty, and creamy flavors together in one bowl. Each scoop feels hearty and bold, working with bread, crackers, or vegetables. Simple ingredients turn into one of the best cheesy dips to serve.

Get the Recipe: Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip

Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Dip

Image shows a corn chip with Chicken enchilada dip on it and the full container behind it.
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want the best cheesy snack to scoop up? Enchilada dip takes chicken, sauce, and plenty of gooey cheese for a dish that feels hearty and rich. Served with nachos or chips, it’s the kind of appetizer that disappears quickly. This recipe proves that gooey cheese is what makes the best starters.

Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Dip

Homemade Nacho Cheese

Image shows ready to dip nacho cheese recipe.
Homemade Nacho Cheese. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Craving a simple but gooey snack? A bowl of melted nacho cheese brings a smooth, creamy texture and a hint of spice that is both bold and comforting. It can be used as a dip for chips, vegetables, or pretzels, or drizzled over snacks for an extra layer of flavor. This easy and versatile option makes it simple to serve a satisfying treat without much effort, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Get the Recipe: Homemade Nacho Cheese

Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This photo shows a hand scooping out baking spinach artichoke dip from a white casserole dish.
Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want a cheesy dip that never fails? Spinach and artichoke baked until gooey gives a warm, creamy mix that’s smooth and rich. It balances cheese and tender vegetables so it feels hearty without being heavy. This is the kind of classic gooey app that never leaves the table.

Get the Recipe: Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Tomato Basil Biscuit Cups

Image shows a Tomato Basil Biscuit Cup on a white plate.
Tomato Basil Biscuit Cups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Looking for a small but gooey bite? Biscuit cups with tomato and cheese bake into snacks that taste rich and satisfying. The soft base holds a creamy filling that looks as good as it tastes. These quick bites show that even simple cheesy apps can stand out.

Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Biscuit Cups

Non-Traditional 7 Layer Dip

A plate with tortilla chips, black bean salsa, and shredded cheese on a wooden table next to a larger dish of the same dip garnished with diced tomatoes and green onions.
Non-Traditional 7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Want the best cheesy apps to share? A 7-layer dip delivers with beans, cheese, vegetables, and spice stacked high. Every scoop is gooey and packed with bold flavor that works with chips or crackers. It can be made ahead and always proves that layered dips never disappoint.

Get the Recipe: Non-Traditional 7 Layer Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Close-up of a hand holding a pretzel chip dipped in a creamy, orange-colored cheese spread. A bowl of the buffalo chicken dip is in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Buffalo chicken dip makes snack time feel complete with its spicy, cheesy flavor. Tender chicken mixed with creamy, melted cheese and zesty buffalo sauce creates a warm and satisfying dish in every scoop. Crunchy tortilla chips or fresh veggies are the perfect match, but the dip usually disappears fast once people start digging in. This dip is easy to serve, full of bold flavor, and always a crowd favorite.

Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Lasagna Pizzas

Image shows a close up of a Lasagna Pizza Appetizer topped with freshly grated parmesan sitting on a white plate with another one in the background.
Lasagna Pizzas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Craving something fun and gooey? Mini bagels topped with lasagna filling bake into little pizzas worth sharing. Each bite has sauce, cheese, and pasta-style filling that’s rich and satisfying. They show that playful appetizers can still bring serious cheesy comfort.

Get the Recipe: Lasagna Pizzas

Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Image shows cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread served on a plate.
Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Soft, warm bread layered with garlic and melted cheese pulls apart easily for sharing. The crust stays lightly crisp while the inside stays tender and gooey. This bread is easy to make and works perfectly as a party appetizer or a simple dinner side. Who is ready for ooey, cheesy bread everyone can enjoy?

Get the Recipe: Cheesy Garlic Pull Apart Bread

Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Baked ricotta cheese in a blue casserole dish with sliced bread.
Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Need a cheesy app that feels light but still rich? Baked ricotta with lemon and herbs bakes until smooth and gooey. The fresh flavor of citrus and herbs blends with creamy cheese for a dip that pairs well with bread or crackers. It’s quick to make and always brings something special to the table.

Get the Recipe: Baked Ricotta Cheese with Lemon

Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip

Fundido dip with chips.
Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Want smoky flavor in a gooey dip? Chipotle baked with cheese turns into something creamy, bold, and smooth with just the right kick. Tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables all work with it. This is the type of cheesy dip people always come back to.

Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chipotle Fundido Dip

Dill Pickle Dip

Image shows irresistible dill pickle dip.
Dill Pickle Dip. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Whip up this Dill Pickle Dip by combining cream cheese with a splash of tangy pickle juice for a flavorful base. Chopped pickles, minced onions, and a pinch of salt add crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. This easy-to-make dip is creamy, tangy, and always a crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly at any gathering.

Get the Recipe: Dill Pickle Dip

Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Guinness Cheese Dip on a platter with soft pretzels.
Guinness Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Thick, creamy, and packed with cheesy flavor, this beer-infused dip is a bowlful of pure goodness. It comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Serve it with soft pretzels, crunchy chips, or fresh veggies, and watch it disappear fast as everyone digs in.

Get the Recipe: Guinness Beer Cheese Dip

Garlic Cheese Balls

Image shows yummy garlic cheese ball.
Garlic Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Looking for an easy gooey app that’s always a hit? Garlic cheese balls take biscuit dough stuffed with mozzarella and bake until golden. Each bite is soft, cheesy, and full of flavor. They’re the kind of snack that fits anywhere from parties to dinner sides.

Get the Recipe: Garlic Cheese Balls

Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf

A person pulls a cheesy topping from a bread bowl filled with melted cheese and bacon bits.
Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

A cheese and bacon cob loaf is a dish that instantly makes your mouth water with just the name. It lives up to the hype with melty cheese, crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions all baked inside a hollowed-out, crusty cob loaf. Every bite combines rich, savory flavors with a satisfying crunch from the bread, making it both comforting and indulgent. Whether served as a standout party appetizer or a cozy snack to share, this cheesy, bacon-filled loaf is sure to impress and disappear quickly.

Get the Recipe: Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf

Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Image shows delicious taco dip with cream cheese.
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Taco Dip with Cream Cheese is an easy, meatless appetizer that everyone will love. It comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for busy hosts. The creamy layers and bold flavors make it perfect for parties, holiday events, or game-day gatherings, and it’s always one of the first dishes to disappear.

Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese

Crockpot Mexican Street Corn Dip

Bowl of dip with cilantro.
Crockpot Mexican Street Corn Dip. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Need an easy gooey dip to set out? Street corn dip made in the slow cooker blends sweet corn, smoky spice, and plenty of cheese. It stays creamy, bold, and warm, ready for chips or bread. This dish proves that cheesy dips are the ones people always come back for.

Get the Recipe: Crockpot Mexican Street Corn Dip

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