Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a creamy, savory appetizer with a huge punch of flavor, this Caramelized French Onion Dip is about to become your new favorite snack. With deeply caramelized onions, a luscious, tangy base, and an irresistibly creamy texture, it’s a crave-worthy dip perfect for game days, gatherings, or elevating your snack game at home. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Big flavor: Slow-cooked, golden caramelized onions add signature sweet-savory depth.
- Creamy & crave-worthy: Thick, rich, and ultra-smooth texture that pairs with anything.
- Crowd-pleasing: A guaranteed hit for potlucks, parties, and holiday tables.
- Make-ahead friendly: Gets even better after chilling, perfect for prepping in advance.
- Versatile: Customizable with easy variations to suit any craving or diet.
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add butter and olive oil.
- Stir in the sliced onions, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring often, for 30–35 minutes until incredibly soft, golden brown, and sweet. If onions start to burn, lower the heat and add a splash of water as needed.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Remove skillet from heat and cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Dip Base
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine & Chill
- Fold in the cooled caramelized onions (reserve about 2 tablespoons for topping) and fresh chives. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer dip to a serving bowl. Top with reserved onions and extra chives for garnish.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours) before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Let onions caramelize slowly for the deepest flavor—don’t rush this step!
- Room-temperature cream cheese blends smoother for a creamy dip.
- This dip tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Variations
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for extra tang and protein.
- Vegan Option: Try plant-based mayo, vegan cream cheese, and dairy-free sour cream.
- Extra Cheesy: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese for melty, cheesy goodness.
Required Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Hand mixer or whisk
Storage Instructions & Shelf Life
- Store leftover dip covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Stir well before serving again. Freezing not recommended as texture may change.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with classic potato chips, kettle chips, or sturdy ridged chips.
- Try with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
- Spread onto toasted baguette slices, bagel chips, or crackers for a gourmet appetizer.
Pro Tips for Perfect French Onion Dip
- Be patient with caramelizing—the richer the color, the bolder the flavor.
- Blend ingredients until completely smooth for an ultra-creamy finish.
- Chill at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and intensify.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make caramelized onion dip ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This dip improves as it chills, so making it a day in advance is ideal.
- How long do I need to caramelize the onions?
- Caramelizing onions takes about 30–35 minutes over medium-low heat for the perfect sweet, golden result.
- What do I do if my dip is too thick?
- If the dip is too thick after chilling, simply stir in a splash of milk or sour cream until creamy again.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes (+ chilling)
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
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1In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and sugar.
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2Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply golden and caramelized, about 40–45 minutes. Add thyme, if using, during the last few minutes.
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3Remove the onions from heat and let them cool to room temperature.
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4In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and Worcestershire sauce.
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5Chop the cooled caramelized onions finely and stir them into the creamy mixture. Mix well to combine.
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6Cover and refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve with chips, crackers, or vegetables.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
180 caloriescal
Protein:
2gg
Fat:
16gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
7gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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