Here’s the Best Bread for Your Favorite Spreads

Photo: Shutterstock / Olesya Kuznetsova

There’s a reason why dips are the king of every potluck. They come together in a snap, are often loaded with cheese (who doesn’t love cheese?), and are likely the first thing to disappear. While you can serve them with crackers or veggies, it’s our humble opinion that bread is the best vehicle for your dip. Follow along to explore power pairings for your next potluck.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Bread pairing: Sourdough

This spicy, creamy dip is best served with a tangy, fresh-baked sourdough bread. Cube a loaf into bite-sized pieces or place the dip in a bread bowl for a spectacular presentation.

Chutney-Topped Cream Cheese

Bread pairing: Lavosh

This sweet and savory dip pairs well with a crisp Lavosh. It’s a crisp bread (also known as Armenian cracker bread) with a flavor similar to flour tortillas and a texture close to that of a cracker.

Hummus

Bread pairing: Pita bread

Pair this protein-packed spread with pita bread for a classic Middle Eastern dish. Pita (or other flatbread like naan) has a pocket that you can stuff full of tasty spread or you can cut it into pieces and toast to make pita chips.

Pizza Fondue

Bread pairing: Italian bread

This traditional, family-friendly fondue works well with neutral-flavor bread like Italian. It allows the flavors of the sausage and cheese to shine through and offers a soft, pillowy interior perfect for dipping. If Italian bread is not your thing, any mildly flavored bread (even cheesy foccacia) works here, too.

Pimiento Cheese

Bread pairing: White bread

A personal favorite of mine! This cheese spread is creamy, salty and cheesy. Pair this with old-school toasted white bread. Dress it up by cutting into triangles or using leftovers to make grilled cheese.

Feta Cheese Dip

Bread pairing: French baguette

This warm creamy spread is far from ordinary! It works well with chips, but I pair this with a crisp, French baguette that’s been sliced and toasted. Drizzle with olive oil and rub with garlic before toasting to add flavor.

Reuben Spread

Bread pairing: Rye

This meaty, tangy dip classically pairs well with rye bread. Rye bread has a hearty texture and distinctive flavor that pairs perfectly with a Reuben’s pungent flavor.

Baked Brie

Bread pairing: French baguette

Earthy, sauteed mushrooms and creamy Brie cheese are combined for a craveable dip. A toasted, crisp baguette of any kind (multigrain or regular) works as a sturdy vessel for this dip.

Cheddar Bacon Beer Dip

Bread pairing: Pretzel bread

This irresistible dip is tangy and smoky from the bacon (and who doesn’t love bacon)! Partner it with pretzel bread, as it has a hint of saltiness and a soft texture that works well with the beer and cheesy flavors of this dip.

Smoked Salmon Cheese Spread

Bread pairing: Mini bagels

If you love salmon and lox you will love this creamy blend of salmon, cheese and herbs. It pairs well with virtually anything, but regular or mini-sized bagels are a welcome surprise tucked in with your vegetable tray. Try cutting them into bite-sized pieces for easier eating.