This 4-ingredient Buffalo Merrick dip is the sort of no-fuss party dish that earned a permanent place on folding tables at neighborhood block parties, church suppers, and game-day gatherings all across the Midwest. My stepdad swore by simple recipes that stretched a dollar and pleased a crowd, and this creamy, spicy dip does both beautifully, baking up hot and bubbly with hardly any effort at all.
Set this dip out with crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, sturdy crackers, and tortilla chips for scooping. If you are feeding a bigger crowd, it also fits right in alongside a tray of little sandwiches, pickle rolls, deviled eggs, or a pot of chili, and a cold pop or light beer makes an easy old-fashioned pairing.
4-Ingredient Buffalo Merrick Dip
Servings: 8
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
1 cup ranch dressing
Directions
1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a small casserole dish or 8-inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing until mostly smooth.
3. Fold in the chopped chicken and mix well so the meat is evenly coated.
4. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until hot throughout and bubbling around the edges. Serve warm.
Variations & Tips
Make It Tangier: If you like a sharper, more old-school party dip flavor, use a little extra buffalo sauce and a touch less ranch. That gives the dip more kick and a brighter orange color.
Use Leftover Chicken: This is a wonderful way to use leftover roasted chicken or even a store-bought rotisserie bird. Just chop it small so every bite stays easy to scoop.
Slow Cooker Version: Mix everything together and warm it in a small slow cooker on low until hot, stirring now and then. It is mighty handy for potlucks and keeps the dip warm for the whole afternoon.
Adjust the Heat: Mild buffalo sauce keeps it friendly for most folks, but if your crowd likes a little more fire, choose a hotter wing sauce. You can also set out extra hot sauce on the side for the brave ones.
Best Dippers: Celery is the classic choice, but thick ridged chips, pretzel crisps, toasted bread rounds, and carrot sticks all hold up nicely against this rich, creamy dip.