Caramelized Onion Dip
A rich, creamy, and deeply savory dip made from scratch with slowly caramelized onions. The sweet, jammy flavor of the onions mixed into a tangy cream cheese and sour cream base is perfect for parties and gatherings.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Caramelize the Onions
- b.In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium-low heat.
- c.Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the onions in the fat.
- d.Cook slowly for 35-45 minutes, stirring every 5-7 minutes. The onions will soften, turn translucent, and then slowly transform into a deep, jammy, golden-brown paste. Do not rush this process; low heat is crucial.
- e.During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
- f.Remove the skillet from the heat and let the caramelized onions cool completely to room temperature. This can take about 20-30 minutes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Creamy Base
- b.In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
- c.Using an electric hand mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the mixture until it is completely smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine and Season
- b.Once the onions have cooled, scrape them from the skillet into the bowl with the cream cheese mixture.
- c.Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Stir everything together with a spatula until the caramelized onions are evenly distributed throughout the dip.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Chill for Flavor Infusion
- b.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dip to an airtight container.
- c.Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. This chilling period is essential for the flavors to meld and deepen.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Before serving, give the dip a final stir.
- c.Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish generously with freshly chopped chives.
- d.Serve with potato chips, crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Patience is the most important ingredient. Rushing the onions on high heat will cause them to burn rather than caramelize, resulting in a bitter taste.
- 2For the sweetest, most flavorful dip, use sweet onion varieties like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui.
- 3Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a perfectly smooth, lump-free dip base.
- 4For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the pan with a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or dry sherry after the onions are caramelized. Cook until the liquid evaporates before cooling.
- 5This dip is even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dip for a spicy kick.
Smoky BaconSmoky Bacon
Crumble 4-5 strips of crispy cooked bacon and fold it into the finished dip. You can also add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Lighter VersionLighter Version
Replace the sour cream and mayonnaise with an equal amount of full-fat plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, higher-protein dip.
HerbedHerbed
Add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or finely chopped rosemary to the onions during the last 5 minutes of caramelization for an earthy, aromatic flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are a great source of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant flavonoid that helps combat inflammation and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Source of Probiotics
Sour cream is a fermented food that can be a source of beneficial probiotics, which support a healthy gut microbiome and aid in digestion.
Contains Healthy Fats
The use of olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to be beneficial for heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
A 1/4 cup serving of this dip contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the specific brands of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise used.