Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
Introduction
This caramelized onion dip is rich, creamy, and packed with sweet, golden onions that bring deep flavor to every bite. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, it pairs wonderfully with your favorite potato chips.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
- 2 large yellow onions (1 3/4 lb. total), thinly sliced
- Kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (4 oz.) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (4 oz.) sour cream
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp. sliced chives
- Potato chips, such as Ruffles, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Swirl in the vegetable oil. Add the sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to soften and break down, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Step 2: Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and deeply caramelized, about 40 minutes more. Transfer the onions to a medium bowl and let cool completely.
- Step 3: Once cooled, stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until well combined. Season the dip with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Top with sliced chives and serve immediately with potato chips alongside.
Tips & Variations
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent onions from burning while caramelizing.
- For an extra tang, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar when mixing the dip.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for extra depth and a subtle kick.
Storage
Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. This dip is best served chilled or at room temperature. Do not freeze as the texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the caramelized onion dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions and the dip up to 2 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
What can I serve instead of potato chips?
This dip is delicious with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers, as well as crackers or toasted baguette slices.
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Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 7 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups (serves 6 to 8 as a snack) 1x
Description
This rich and creamy Caramelized Onion Dip combines slowly cooked sweet onions with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, delivering a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. Ideal for serving with potato chips or fresh veggies, this classic party dip is simple to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Caramelized Onions
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 large yellow onions (1 3/4 lb. total), thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Dip Base
- 1/2 cup (4 oz.) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (4 oz.) sour cream
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp sliced chives
- Potato chips, such as Ruffles, for serving
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and swirl in the vegetable oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to break down and soften, about 10 to 12 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become golden and deeply caramelized, approximately 40 minutes more. Transfer the caramelized onions to a medium bowl and allow them to cool completely.
- Prepare the Dip: Once the caramelized onions have cooled, stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until well combined. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish the dip with sliced chives.
- Serve: Serve the caramelized onion dip alongside potato chips or your choice of dippables. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- For an extra depth of flavor, use a mix of butter and oil to prevent the butter from burning during caramelization.
- Make sure to cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat to develop a rich, sweet flavor without burning.
- The dip can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
- Feel free to substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Use sliced chives or green onions as garnish for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 52 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramelized onion dip, party dip, creamy dip, appetizer, snack, onion dip, caramelized onions
