No get-together is truly complete without the quintessential crowd-pleaser: chips and dip. This beloved snack deserves more than a haphazard presentation. Enter the Dip Serving Tray, a sophisticated solution to keep your snacks organized and visually appealing. Instead of simply placing chips and dip on a standard plate, using a dedicated chip and dip serving tray enhances the entire snacking experience, maintaining neatness and cohesiveness. These specialized trays and platters come equipped with compartments, perfect for separating various snacks like chips and salsa, crackers and hummus, or crudités and dip. Beyond traditional pairings, dip serving trays are incredibly versatile, ideal for arranging chili toppings, nacho bar fixings, condiment selections, and more.
To guide you in selecting the ideal dip serving tray for your needs, we’ve rigorously tested a range of popular options, from practical disposable trays to elegant, gift-worthy pieces. We evaluated each tray with both hot and cold dips, alongside an assortment of dippers such as fresh fruit, olives, and pretzels. After indulging in our snacks, we assessed and rated each dip serving tray based on several criteria, and are excited to share our top recommendations to elevate your hosting game.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Sweese Porcelain Divided Serving Dishes at Amazon $36
Best Disposable:
Party Bargains 6 Sectional Round Plastic Serving Tray at Amazon $15
Best Individual:
Uncommon Goods Ooma Bowl at Uncommon Goods $34
Best for Outdoor Dining:
Prodyne Appetizers On Ice with Lids at Amazon $45
Best Glass:
SALE
Mikasa Napoli Chip and Dip Set at Amazon $40 $30
Best Large Capacity:
Better Homes & Gardens Porcelain Chip Dip Set at Walmart $20
Best Personalized:
Mark & Graham Wood and Marble Chip and Dip Set at Markandgraham.com $99
Best for Kids:
Funwares NACHOsaurus Dip and Snack Dish Set at Amazon $25
Best Overall
Sweese Porcelain Divided Serving Dishes
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What We Like
- Highly versatile dip serving tray
- Complements any table setting
- Microwave and dishwasher safe
What We Don’t Like
- Compartments might be slightly small for larger chips
This classic ceramic dip serving tray proves that appetizer presentation can be both effortless and elegant. The Sweese Porcelain Divided Serving Dishes set stands out with its exceptional versatility, featuring five removable divided compartments on a smooth platter. This design allows for a myriad of serving options. Arrange an assortment of your favorite chips or crackers, or create a diverse spread of dippers—including chips, crackers, fresh vegetables, and more—to cater to everyone’s preferences.
We were particularly impressed by the adaptability of this serving set. You can utilize all compartments on the platter for a comprehensive dip serving tray, or employ the individual dishes separately to expand your serving capacity. When the compartments are removed, the base transforms into a sleek standalone tray, offering even more serving possibilities. Pair it with just the central round dip bowl for accommodating larger chips or uniquely shaped dippers like breadsticks or skewers. Alternatively, use the tray with any combination of the compartments to customize your dip serving tray setup. For added convenience, all components are microwave-safe, ideal for heating up hot dips like a creamy crab dip, and dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
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Size: 13.39 x 13.11 x 3.31 inches | Weight: 6.07 pounds | Material: Porcelain | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Disposable
Party Bargains 6 Sectional Round Plastic Serving Tray
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What We Like
- Ample compartments in this disposable dip serving tray
- Sturdy enough for reuse despite being disposable
- Budget-friendly option
What We Don’t Like
- Recycling potential is limited
Sometimes, the most practical approach to hosting is opting for convenience, and nothing beats the ease of disposable serving dishes. However, many disposable platters can feel flimsy and look cheap. The Party Bargains 6 Sectional Round Plastic Serving Tray set overcomes these issues with its hardened plastic construction. Though designed for disposal, we were pleased to find that these trays are durable enough for repeated use and cleaning, making them a great choice if you need to leave an event early or prefer to leave the serving ware behind. Disposable dip serving trays are also exceptionally useful for gifting homemade treats to friends and family.
The silver accents on these plastic serving trays, available in a set of four, elevate their appearance beyond typical disposable options. Each tray features five outer compartments, perfect for a variety of dippers from pretzels and chips to vegetables and even fruits – expanding into dessert dips. Each compartment is moderately sized, yet our tester successfully arranged a wide assortment of snacks.
We were particularly impressed by the robust plastic material of these platters, which resists breakage. This durability allowed us to wash and reuse them multiple times, extending their lifespan and making them a slightly more eco-conscious disposable choice. However, it’s important to note that these trays are made from number 6 plastic, which is not commonly recycled. Additionally, they are not suitable for microwave or oven use.
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Size: 12 x 12 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 1.28 pounds | Material: Plastic | Dishwasher Safe: No
Best Individual
Uncommon Goods Ooma Bowl
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What We Like
- Unique, handheld dip serving tray design
- Microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe
- Available in fun color options
What We Don’t Like
- Higher price point for an individual serving piece
Chips and dips aren’t exclusively for large gatherings. Indulging in this classic duo can be a delightful personal treat any time the craving strikes. For solo snacking or enjoying a cozy evening with a partner, a large party platter may be excessive. The Uncommon Goods Ooma Bowl offers a clever solution: a handheld dip serving tray perfectly sized for one or two.
This unique bowl features two compartments – a slightly larger section for chips or dippers and a smaller one for dip, salsa, or your favorite sauce. While the two compartments limit variety compared to larger trays, we found it spacious enough to hold a satisfying serving of mixed raw vegetables like carrot and cucumber sticks, and bell pepper strips in the larger section. The smaller compartment is generously sized, perhaps a bit too large for a single serving of dip unless you prefer a generous amount with each bite. Like other high-quality dip serving trays, this dual-chambered bowl is microwave, dishwasher, and oven-safe for ultimate convenience.
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Size: 8.75 x 4.625 x 2.75 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Stoneware | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best for Outdoor Dining
Prodyne Appetizers On Ice with Lids
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What We Like
- Integrated ice compartment in this outdoor dip serving tray
- Includes lids for each compartment
- Versatile for various appetizers
What We Don’t Like
- Only the dip cup is dishwasher safe
When dining al fresco, whether at a picnic or a backyard barbecue, keeping perishable foods chilled is crucial, particularly on warm days. The Prodyne Appetizers On Ice with Lids dip serving tray addresses this perfectly. This platter features three removable compartments and a base designed to hold ice, ensuring your appetizers stay refreshingly cold. For added outdoor dining convenience, this BPA-free set includes individual lids to maintain the chill and keep insects away.
During testing, we appreciated the thoughtful design of the base, which includes dividers that align with the removable compartments. This allows you to fill only a portion of the tray with ice, keeping items like chips or pita bread dry while chilling dips and perishable snacks. The individual lids for each compartment, rather than a single overall lid, proved to be particularly practical. One minor drawback is that only the PCTG dip cup is dishwasher-safe. The remaining components, made from durable crystal-clear polystyrene, require hand washing, which can be a bit time-consuming due to the numerous separate parts.
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Size: 16.75 x 16 x 5.25 inches | Weight: 4.2 pounds | Material: Acrylic | Dishwasher Safe: No
Best Glass
Mikasa Napoli Chip and Dip Set
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What We Like
- Generous capacity in this glass dip serving tray
- Elegant and timeless aesthetic
- Removable dip cup enhances versatility
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks compartments for separating dippers
For a touch of classic sophistication, the Mikasa Napoli Chip and Dip Set in glass is an excellent choice. This two-piece set features a removable center dip cup nestled within a larger serving bowl. The outer ring, designed for dippers, forms a single, deep compartment, ideal for accommodating a large quantity of chips or snacks. The center dip cup is equally deep, minimizing the need for frequent refills. A notable feature is the removable dip cup, allowing both pieces to be used independently. We appreciated the slight indentation in the large bowl, which securely holds the dip cup in place, yet remains unobtrusive when using the bowl for other purposes, such as serving a tossed salad.
The lead-free glass is substantial and durable, providing confidence in its resilience during filling and cleaning. However, the thickness does make the chip bowl, in particular, quite heavy. While the bowls should not be microwaved or filled with boiling water to prevent cracking, the smaller dip bowl can hold pre-warmed dips effectively. The lack of dividers in the large bowl limits its compartmentalized dip serving tray functionality to single-dip scenarios with chips, but its versatility shines through as a classy serving bowl for various dishes. Imagine it filled with a vibrant salad accompanied by a side of dressing in the dip cup, pasta with parmesan, or fresh fruit with a dollop of whipped cream.
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Size: 11.02 x 11.02 x 3.25 inches | Weight: 5.64 pounds | Material: Glass | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Large Capacity
Better Homes & Gardens Porcelain Chip Dip Set
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What We Like
- Dip bowl placement is versatile within this large dip serving tray
- Universally appealing aesthetic
- Oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit
What We Don’t Like
- Dippers are not separated
When hosting a large gathering, chips and dip are almost guaranteed to be a hit. For such occasions, a dip serving tray with ample capacity is essential to avoid constant refills. The Better Homes & Gardens Porcelain Chip Dip Set excels in this area. This set features a deep porcelain bowl accompanied by a smaller, separate bowl that nests atop the larger one. This design keeps the dip completely separate while maximizing space for a generous chip serving, preventing buffet overcrowding.
In our tests, this set comfortably held an 11-ounce bag of tortilla chips and a full 16-ounce jar of salsa with room to spare. We could easily add more salsa without spillage and even accommodate two bags of chips if the salsa bowl was placed outside the chip bowl. The large bowl’s smooth interior allows for flexible placement of the dip cup anywhere within it.
For those who prefer warm dips like Buffalo chicken dip, this set is oven-safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Aesthetically, its timeless white porcelain design effortlessly complements any setting, from casual to formal. Its durability and classic look make it a versatile and reliable dip serving tray for any host.
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Size: 13.13 x 11.5 x 3.5 inches | Weight: 4.6 pounds | Material: Porcelain | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Best Personalized
Mark & Graham Wood and Marble Chip and Dip Set
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What We Like
- Sophisticated and sleek dip serving tray
- Excellent high-end gift option
- Choice of white or charcoal marble bowl
What We Don’t Like
- Wood component may show wear over time
For a long-lasting, investment-worthy dip serving tray, the Mark & Graham Wood and Marble Chip and Dip Set is an exceptional choice. This handcrafted set includes two pieces: a natural acacia wood serving platter and a marble dip insert, creating a beautiful contrast in materials. Personalization is available with an initial or monogram for a small additional fee. The smooth wood platter, featuring a slightly raised rim, comfortably holds a medium-sized bag of chips. The substantial marble bowl, with its thick base and sides, has a dip capacity of approximately 8 ounces, which we found perfectly proportionate to the chip volume.
Both pieces are weighty and feel luxurious. The marble dip bowl sits securely in a designated inset on the wood platter, providing stability when carrying and serving. This elegant set is ideal for sophisticated gatherings and accommodates a variety of warm and cold dips alongside larger dippers, without the need for compartment separation. The wide lip of the dip bowl helps contain drips, and the raised rim of the platter prevents chips or crackers from sliding off the edge.
Care is required to maintain its beauty; the wood should only be wiped clean with a damp cloth or sponge, and neither the marble nor the wood is microwave or dishwasher safe. However, these minor maintenance considerations are worthwhile for the aesthetic appeal and quality of this personalized dip serving tray.
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Size: 14 x 1.5 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Acacia wood, marble | Dishwasher Safe: No
Best for Kids
Funwares NACHOsaurus Dip and Snack Dish Set
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What We Like
- Fun and whimsical dip serving tray for kids
- Perfectly shaped for tortilla chips
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
What We Don’t Like
- Intricate design may be challenging to clean thoroughly
While not designed for large crowds, the Funwares NACHOsaurus Dip and Snack Dish Set is guaranteed to spark conversation and delight. This BPA-free plastic dinosaur serves as a playful dip serving tray, with its back acting as a vessel for dippers. The accompanying rock-shaped bowl provides two compartments for dips. During testing, we found tortilla chips fit best on the dinosaur’s back, creating a humorous resemblance to a stegosaurus. However, it can be filled with various snacks like pretzels, crackers, veggie sticks, or even treats like candy or french fries. The 4-ounce dip cup is divided into two sections, allowing you to offer dip choices for picky eaters or pair chips with healthier options like baby carrots.
This novelty serving ware makes a wonderful gift for whimsical food enthusiasts or children who love dinosaurs. It is top-rack dishwasher safe, although hand-washing the dinosaur may be easier due to its shape, and the nooks and crannies may require extra attention if cheesy dips are used. Neither component is microwave safe.
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:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SES-Funwares-NachosaurusSet-1-44b1f3a2631842a6813d61b7b2705949.jpeg) PHOTO: The Spruce Eats/Julie Laing
Size: 9 x 4.25 x 4.5 inches | Weight: 12.7 ounces | Material: Plastic | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Final Verdict
The Sweese Porcelain Divided Serving Dish is our top recommendation due to its timeless design and exceptional versatility as a dip serving tray. For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Better Homes & Gardens Porcelain Chip Dip Set offers similar elegance and generous capacity, making it a smart choice for value-conscious buyers.
How We Tested
We dispatched nine different chip and dip bowls and platters to our experienced home tester, Julie Laing. Julie evaluated each dip serving tray for its overall quality and used them to serve both hot and cold dips. She also tested them with a variety of snacks and dippers, including chips, pretzels, pita bread, vegetables, and fruits. For models designed to keep food chilled, she assessed the effectiveness of the ice compartments and checked for any leaks. Following snack testing, Julie rated each bowl and platter based on design, size, versatility, durability, and overall value, providing detailed insights into the pros and cons of each product to inform our recommendations for the best dip serving trays.
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The Spruce Eats / Julie Laing
What to Look for in a Dip Serving Tray
Size
Dip serving trays are available in a wide array of sizes to suit diverse needs. The appropriate size depends on your typical usage. Serving a single dip with various chips and crackers requires a different size than presenting a multi-dip spread. Consider whether you need a large dip serving tray for entertaining or a smaller one for casual TV nights for two. Single-serve dip serving bowls are also available for parties or individual snacking.
Versatility
Choose a dip serving tray that aligns with the types of food you frequently serve. Deep compartments are well-suited for larger items like chips, pretzels, pita triangles, sliced vegetables, and fruits. Shallower compartments are ideal for dips, olives, cheese cubes, and other smaller items. Consider the versatility of a dip serving tray to ensure it meets your various appetizer and snack presentation needs.
Heat Resistance
If you plan to serve hot dips directly in the dip serving tray, selecting one that is microwave or oven-safe is a practical choice. This eliminates the need to transfer dips from heating containers to serving dishes, streamlining your serving process.
Outdoor Use
Serving food outdoors presents challenges like insects and heat. A dip serving tray designed to keep food chilled on ice is invaluable for summer gatherings and even indoor events where maintaining food temperature is desired. Opting for a dip serving tray with individual lids for each compartment offers superior protection compared to cling wrap and presents a more appealing and accessible serving solution for outdoor settings.
The Spruce Eats / Julie Laing
FAQs
What is a dip serving tray?
A dip serving tray is a specialized serving dish designed to present chips and dips together, typically featuring separate compartments for each element. This arrangement ensures that each food is neatly contained and easily accessible, enhancing both presentation and functionality.
What is a dip serving tray made of?
Dip serving trays are crafted from a diverse range of materials, including melamine, plastic, glass, wood, bamboo, ceramic, and porcelain. Recycled materials are also increasingly used for eco-conscious options. Vintage dip serving trays, particularly from the 1950s when they gained popularity in the United States, are often sought after for their retro charm and materials.
Are there disposable dip serving trays?
Yes, disposable dip serving trays are readily available for single-use convenience. Some disposable options are made from biodegradable materials, offering an eco-friendlier alternative for events where easy cleanup is prioritized.
The Spruce Eats / Julie Laing
Why Trust The Spruce Eats?
This article was written by Brigitt Earley, a seasoned food writer and editor with over a decade of experience in creating food-related content for various publications. Brigitt also holds a culinary degree from the esteemed French Culinary Institute, bringing a wealth of culinary expertise to her writing.
This roundup was meticulously updated by Julie Laing, a writer and editor with more than 25 years of experience. In 2020, Julie published her first cookbook, “The Complete Guide to Pickling,” showcasing her deep knowledge of food preservation and preparation. Julie personally tested each chip and dip bowl and platter set featured in this roundup, ensuring firsthand insights and reliable recommendations.
