Print

The Ultimate Creamy Caramelized Onion Dip (No-Fail Recipe for Parties)

Creamy caramelized onion dip topped generously with crispy bacon bits, served in a white ramekin.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this easy, creamy caramelized onion dip for your next gathering. Slow cooking the onions develops deep, savory sweetness, making this homemade onion dip a superior party dip idea, perfect for chips, crackers, or vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (for baked version)
  • Optional: 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook slowly, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes, for 40 to 50 minutes until the onions are deep brown and fully caramelized. Do not rush this step to achieve the best flavor.
  2. Stir in the black pepper and thyme during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the onions from the heat and let them cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until completely smooth.
  4. Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed. Taste and add more salt if needed.
  5. For a cold dip: Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. For a warm/baked onion dip: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the dip mixture to a small, oven-safe baking dish. If using, sprinkle the Gruyere cheese over the top.
  7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  8. Serve the dip warm or cold with your favorite chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks. Top with crumbled bacon if desired.

Notes

  • To achieve deep caramelization quickly, you can add a splash of water or a teaspoon of sugar during the onion cooking process, though slow cooking yields the best natural sweetness.
  • This recipe is inspired by the rich flavor profiles often seen in Gordon Ramsay’s appetizers, focusing on deep onion flavor.
  • For an extra savory kick, substitute half the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier, thicker texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbymia.com/caramelized-onion-dip-recipe-easy-party-appetizer/