This creamy caramelized onion dip is a winner at parties! The sweet, golden onions mixed with smooth cream cheese create a yummy treat that’s hard to resist.
Try not to eat it all at once—it’s that good! I love serving it with crispy chips or fresh veggies. Trust me, your friends will be asking for the recipe! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re out of yellow onions, you might use sweet onions like Vidalia for a similar flavor profile.
Olive Oil or Unsalted Butter: Both add richness; I usually go for butter for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use avocado oil instead.
Cream Cheese: This is a key ingredient for creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese alternative or cashew cream for a similar texture.
Sour Cream: It adds tanginess. Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, giving a bit of extra protein while keeping the dip creamy.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth to the flavor. If you need a vegetarian option, look for a vegan version or simply skip it if you prefer.
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions takes patience, but the sweet reward is worth it! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a large skillet; a wider surface helps the moisture evaporate quicker.
- Cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning. Stir the onions occasionally—this allows even cooking.
- Keep an eye on them for about 30-40 minutes. If you notice browning too quickly, dial back the heat.
- Seasoning early helps the onions to draw out moisture. Adding a touch of salt also enhances their sweetness.
Remember, slow and steady wins the race when it comes to caramelized onions!
Caramelized Onion Dip
Ingredients
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp salt, divided
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Crackers or fresh vegetables, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip will take about 45 minutes to an hour to prepare. You’ll spend about 30-40 minutes caramelizing the onions, plus about another 10-15 minutes mixing everything together and chilling. It’s worth the wait for this delicious treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Caramelizing the Onions
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp of salt. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they turn deeply golden and caramelized. Be gentle and keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn. This is where the magic happens, so take your time!
2. Cool the Onions
After the onions are perfectly caramelized, transfer them to a bowl and let them cool slightly. Set aside a few tablespoons of the caramelized onions for topping later.
3. Mix the Dip Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it), the remaining salt, black pepper, and chopped rosemary. Mix together until everything is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine with Onions
Fold the caramelized onions into the cream cheese mixture gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dip. You want all that delicious onion flavor in every bite!
5. Chill and Serve
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Top with the reserved caramelized onions and a bit more rosemary if you like. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all those flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it with your favorite crackers, chips, or fresh veggies!
Enjoy your rich and flavorful caramelized onion dip! It’s perfect for sharing at parties or as a delicious snack anytime.
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Yes! While yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness, you can also use sweet onions like Vidalia. Red onions can work too, but they might give the dip a different flavor and color.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’d like to skip mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor or an extra bit of sour cream to maintain the creaminess of the dip.
How Should I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dip can be made a day in advance. In fact, preparing it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even further. Just be sure to chill it after mixing and before serving!
