This creamy Caramelized Onion Dip is full of flavor with sweet, golden onions mixed into a velvety base. Perfect for dipping your favorite chips or veggies!
Honestly, it’s so good that you’ll want to eat it with a spoon! I love serving it at parties, and it disappears faster than a pizza at a kids’ birthday party. 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onions: I recommend yellow onions for their sweetness when caramelized. You can use sweet onions like Vidalia if you prefer a milder taste. For a different flavor, try red onions—they’ll give the dip a nice color too!
Sour Cream: This gives the dip its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, go for Greek yogurt. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream for a vegan option.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness. If you want a healthier touch, use avocado mayo or plain yogurt as a substitute. I’ve tried both, and they work well!
Cream Cheese: It brings the dip together in a creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, look for a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme brighten up the dip. Dried herbs can work too, but remember to use less as they’re more concentrated. You’ll need about 1/3 of the amount if you’re using dried!
How Do You Get the Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions can be a bit tricky, but it’s all about patience. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by heating your skillet on medium-low. You want a gentle cook, not high heat that will burn them.
- Add butter and olive oil, and let it melt completely.
- Add your sliced onions, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and sugar. The sugar helps them caramelize faster!
- Cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start to stick, lower your heat or add a splash of water to loosen them up.
- Take your time; this enhances their flavor. The end goal is a deep golden-brown color. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
How to Make Caramelized Onion Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (to aid caramelization)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Crackers or sliced vegetables for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and around 30-40 minutes for cooking. After that, it’s best to chill the dip for at least 1 hour, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together. So overall, plan for around 2 hours including chilling time. Perfect for prepping ahead of your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the unsalted butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the sliced yellow onions along with 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper, and sugar. Stir well to coat the onions in the buttery mixture.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally. This process takes about 30-40 minutes. You want to achieve a beautiful golden brown color, and be patient—this will enhance the flavor. If you notice they’re sticking or burning, lower the heat and keep stirring!
3. Cool the Onions:
Once the onions are caramelized and wonderfully fragrant, take the skillet off the heat and let them cool down. This is important so they don’t melt the other creamy ingredients when you mix everything together!
4. Prepare the Dip Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat everything together until it’s completely smooth and creamy.
5. Mix in Ingredients:
Stir in the cooled caramelized onions, fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic (if using), and the remaining salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After the dip has chilled, give it a good stir. Transfer it to a serving bowl, and if you like, top with extra caramelized onions and rosemary for a pretty presentation. Serve with your favorite crackers or fresh sliced vegetables. Enjoy this delicious dip at your next gathering or cozy night in!
Happy dipping! 🎉
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are the best for sweetness and caramelization, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a different flavor and color. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dip a day in advance! Just follow the recipe, let it chill in the refrigerator, and take it out an hour before serving to let it warm up slightly for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken a bit while chilled.
Can I Make This Dip Healthier?
Yes! To make it lighter, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise, or even swap the cream cheese for a lower-fat version. Just note that it might alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
