Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

Introduction

This caramelized onion dip is a rich, flavorful treat perfect for parties or casual snacking. With deeply sweet onions blended into a creamy base, it pairs beautifully with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies. It’s easy to make ahead and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 sweet onions, chopped
• Kosher salt and pepper (at least 1/2 teaspoon of each, more to taste)
• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh herbs, like parsley, for topping

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions with a big pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until the onions begin to soften.
2. Step 2: Reduce the heat to low or medium-low and continue cooking the onions, stirring often, until they are dark brown and caramelized. This can take 30 to 60 minutes. Watch carefully and stir frequently to prevent burning. Add a splash of water if the pan becomes too dry.
3. Step 3: Let the caramelized onions cool slightly. You can also caramelize them a day or two ahead and store in the fridge, reheating gently before mixing.
4. Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Step 5: Stir the caramelized onions into the sour cream mixture until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately or chill in the fridge. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, lighter dip.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar while caramelizing onions for extra depth of flavor.
• For a smoky twist, stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• Caramelize onions in advance and refrigerate to save time on serving day.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will thicken as it chills but softens slightly at room temperature. Re-stir before serving for the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular yellow onions instead of sweet onions?

Yes, you can use yellow onions, but sweet onions will provide a milder, more naturally sweet flavor that enhances the dip.

How can I prevent the onions from burning while caramelizing?

Cook the onions over low heat and stir frequently. If the pan looks too dry, add a splash of water to keep the onions from sticking or burning.

Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 97 reviews

• Author: Jack
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: About 2 cups of dip, serves 6-8 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and flavorful Caramelized Onion Dip made by slowly cooking sweet onions in butter until deeply caramelized, then mixed with sour cream, mayonnaise, and garlic powder. Perfect as a creamy, savory dip for chips, crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

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Ingredients

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Caramelized Onions

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 sweet onions, chopped
• Kosher salt and black pepper, at least 1/2 teaspoon each (more to taste)

Dip Base

• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh herbs like parsley, for topping

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Instructions

1. Heat Butter and Begin Cooking Onions: Heat the unsalted butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat until melted. Add the chopped sweet onions along with a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions start to soften.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Reduce heat to low or medium-low to prevent burning. Continue cooking the onions, stirring frequently, for 30 to 60 minutes until they become dark brown and caramelized. If the pan becomes dry, add a small splash of water to prevent browning too quickly. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
3. Cool the Onions: Once caramelized, let the onions cool slightly. You can also prepare the caramelized onions a day or two in advance and store them refrigerated. To use, gently reheat on low heat or in the microwave before combining with other ingredients.
4. Prepare the Dip Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, garlic powder, and a big pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
5. Combine Onions with Dip Base: Stir the caramelized onions into the sour cream mixture until thoroughly incorporated. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Store: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and sprinkle fresh parsley or your choice of herbs on top. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a few days. The dip will thicken when chilled and loosen slightly at room temperature. Enjoy with chips, crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

• Caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• If pan dries out during caramelization, add a splash of water to prevent burns.
• The dip thickens when chilled but will soften slightly when brought back to room temperature.
• Use plain Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute for sour cream for a tangier, lower-fat dip.
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste after mixing the dip.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramelized onion dip, onion dip, appetizer dip, party dip, savory dip, homemade dip, easy dip recipe