This Caramelized Onion Dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with sweet, rich flavors from the perfectly cooked onions. It’s the ultimate snack for any gathering!
Honestly, who can resist a dip that gets better the longer you eat it? I love serving it with crunchy veggies and chips. Just be sure to have enough—it disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are ideal for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. If yellow onions aren’t available, sweet onions, like Vidalia, work well too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they might caramelize faster.
Olive Oil or Butter: I love using unsalted butter for a rich flavor. However, olive oil is a great substitute for a lighter option, perfect for vegan diets as well. You can also mix both for a balanced taste!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. You can swap it for greek yogurt for a healthier twist and a hint of tartness. For dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or a cashew cream.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the dip a smooth consistency. If you want to cut calories, use a low-fat version or a plant-based cream cheese for a non-dairy alternative.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness to the dip. You can substitute with plain yogurt for a lighter version. If avoiding eggs, look for vegan mayonnaise options.
How Do I Caramelize Onions to Perfection?
Caramelizing onions properly is key for this dip. It transforms the onions from sharp and pungent to sweet and beautiful! Here’s how to make it easier:
- Start with a large skillet to allow onions to spread out. Use medium-low heat to avoid burning, which can happen quickly.
- Add the sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. The salt helps draw out moisture, speeding up the caramelizing process.
- Stir often for even cooking, but let them sit to form a nice brown color. This can take 30-40 minutes, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- If they start sticking, drizzle a bit of water or more oil to help. You want them soft, golden, and sweet!
Once done, let them cool before adding to the dip. Enjoy this delicious treat!
Caramelized Onion Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Carrot sticks, toasted bread, or chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to caramelize the onions, plus 1 hour to chill and let the flavors meld. Total time: about 1 hour and 50 minutes. It’s easy and definitely worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelizing the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once it’s hot, add the sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir occasionally and let the onions cook slowly. This process should take around 30 to 40 minutes, so be patient! You want them to become a deep golden brown, as this caramelization brings out their natural sweetness.
2. Mixing the Creamy Base:
Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, take them off the heat and allow them to cool slightly. In a separate mixing bowl, throw in the sour cream, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and add lemon juice if you’d like a bit of brightness. Mix everything until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Combining Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to stir in the cooled caramelized onions. If you’re using rosemary and thyme, go ahead and mix those in too! Combine everything until well incorporated. Transfer your creamy onion mixture to a serving bowl, and for a nice finish, garnish with chopped chives or parsley, and consider adding a few extra caramelized onions on top.
4. Chilling and Serving:
Cover your dip and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together. When you’re ready to serve, offer it with carrot sticks, toasted bread, or your favorite chips. Enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!
This Caramelized Onion Dip is a hit at any gathering, with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Happy dipping!
Can I Use Other Types of Onions for This Dip?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are ideal due to their sweetness, you can also use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a slightly different flavor. Each will bring its unique taste, so feel free to experiment!
How Can I Make This Dip Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can swap the sour cream and mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. You can also use low-fat cream cheese, which will still give you that creamy texture without the extra calories.
Can This Dip Be Made in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare this dip up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after a day or so, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy it again, simply stir it well before serving, as some separation may occur after chilling. You can also give it a quick refresh with a bit of sour cream if it thickens up.
