Name: Caramelized Onion Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (or Worcestershire sauce); 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, enhances sweetness); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (or sharp cheddar); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); 1/4 cup additional shredded cheese; 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)

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If you’re in the mood for a dip that’s rich, savory, and irresistibly smooth, look no further than Caramelized Onion Dip. This dip is everything you’ve been dreaming of: sweet, caramelized onions paired with creamy, tangy goodness. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet, and it has a depth of flavor that makes it completely addictive. Seriously, you’ll want to double the batch because once you start dipping, there’s no stopping!

Why You’ll Love Caramelized Onion Dip

Trust me, this is one of those dips that’ll steal the show at any gathering. Here’s why it’s a total crowd-pleaser:

Rich and Savory: The caramelized onions are the star of the show. They cook low and slow until they’re golden, sweet, and deeply flavorful. Combined with a creamy base, it’s the ultimate dip that hits all the right notes.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make this dip, just pantry staples that come together to create something amazing.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a game night, a casual get-together, or even a cozy movie night, this dip is versatile and perfect for any occasion.
Easy to Make: Don’t let the fancy name fool you—this dip is super simple to make and comes together quickly, especially if you’ve got a bit of patience while the onions caramelize.
Great for Dipping: Whether you’re serving it with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, this dip is perfect for scooping up and savoring.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, savory dip:

Onions: The caramelized onions are the heart of this dip. You’ll want to use a sweet onion variety, like yellow onions, for that delicious balance of sweetness and depth.

Butter: Used for cooking the onions, giving them a rich, buttery flavor.

Cream Cheese: The creamy base of the dip. It provides a smooth texture and a bit of tang to balance out the sweetness of the onions.

Sour Cream: Adds an extra layer of creaminess and a little zing that perfectly complements the caramelized onions.

Mayonnaise: Adds an extra richness to the dip and helps give it that perfectly creamy consistency.

Garlic: For an aromatic kick that complements the sweetness of the onions. Fresh garlic adds a great depth of flavor.

Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme gives the dip an herby note that adds complexity to the overall flavor.

Salt and Pepper: Just the right amount of seasoning to balance all the flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this mouthwatering dip? Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and let the onions cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, until they are golden brown and caramelized (about 25-30 minutes). Patience is key here—low and slow is the way to go!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Thyme
Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and thyme to the pan. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Dip Base
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine
Add the cooled caramelized onion mixture to the creamy base and stir everything together. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving to let all the flavors meld together. It’s totally worth the wait! Serve with your favorite chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, and get ready for the compliments.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 150-200 (depending on portion size and dip thickness)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Caramelized Onion Dip

This dip is so versatile—it pairs perfectly with:

Chips: Classic potato chips are a must for dipping into this savory goodness.
Crackers: Crisp crackers make a great vehicle for scooping up all that creamy, flavorful dip.
Fresh Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, and cucumber slices are great options if you’re looking for something a little lighter.
Bread: Warm, crusty baguette slices or toasted bread are also great choices for dipping.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: This dip gets even better after a little time in the fridge. Feel free to make it the night before and let it chill until you’re ready to serve.
Adjust the Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add a bit more to the dip for an extra punch.
Herb Variations: You can also experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano to customize the flavor of your dip.
Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of onion?
A1: While sweet onions are ideal for caramelizing, you can use other varieties like red onions, but the flavor may be slightly sharper.

Q2: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours (or overnight) helps the flavors meld together, making it even better.

Q3: How do I store leftover dip?
A3: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again.

Q4: Can I use light versions of the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo?
A4: You can, but keep in mind that the dip may not be as rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter version, it’s worth a try!

Q5: Can I make this dip without mayonnaise?
A5: Yes! You can substitute the mayo with more sour cream or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Q6: Can I freeze this dip?
A6: This dip doesn’t freeze well because the cream cheese and sour cream can separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Q7: Can I add cheese to the dip?
A7: Absolutely! A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top can add an extra cheesy kick to the dip.

Q8: Can I make this dip spicier?
A8: If you love a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dip!

Q9: Can I use pre-made caramelized onions?
A9: You can, but making your own gives the dip a richer flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-made can be a good shortcut.

Q10: Can I make this dip vegan?
A10: Yes! You can use vegan cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo to make a vegan version of this delicious dip.

Conclusion

Caramelized Onion Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Its rich, savory flavor is perfect for any occasion, and once you start dipping, you won’t be able to stop! Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a treat to enjoy on your own, this dip will become a go-to favorite. Make it today and watch it disappear in no time!