Create a rich, savory, and creamy caramelized onion dip perfect for any gathering. This recipe focuses on slow-cooking the onions to develop deep flavor, resulting in a superior homemade onion dip that outshines store-bought versions.
Author:Cat
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:55 min
Total Time:70 min
Yield:About 3 cups1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:No Bake (or Baking Option)
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 clove garlic, minced
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese (optional, for richness)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Cook the onions slowly, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes, for 40 to 50 minutes, until they are deeply browned and sweet. Do not rush this step; low and slow caramelization builds the flavor base.
Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme to the onions during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the onions cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Fold the cooled caramelized onions and garlic mixture into the cream cheese base.
Stir in the grated Gruyere cheese, if using, and the Worcestershire sauce. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Taste the dip and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
For the best flavor, cover the dip and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve this rich flavorful dip cold with potato chips, crackers, or crisp vegetables. You can also warm it slightly for a warm baked onion dip experience.
Notes
For an easy make ahead party dip, prepare the dip completely up to step 6 and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving.
If you prefer a warm baked onion dip, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, top with a little extra Gruyere, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly.
To add bacon, cook 4 slices of bacon until crisp, crumble, and fold into the finished dip.