Description
This Caramelized Onion Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer featuring sweet, golden-brown caramelized onions blended with sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for serving warm alongside crusty bread, chips, or crackers, making it a crowd-pleasing dip for any gathering or party.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dip Base
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Serving & Garnish
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), for garnish
- Crusty bread, chips, or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat to create the perfect base for caramelization.
- Cook the Onions: Add the thinly sliced onions along with salt and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir occasionally as you cook them for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and develop a deep golden brown color.
- Add Garlic: Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Dip Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
- Mix the Dip Base: Stir all the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring an even consistency.
- Combine Onions with Dip: Fold the caramelized onions gently into the dip base, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) in preparation for baking the dip.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the combined dip mixture into an oven-safe baking dish and smooth out the top for even cooking.
- Bake the Dip: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip becomes bubbly and develops a golden brown top layer.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baked dip from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Garnish the dip with fresh herbs like parsley or chives and serve warm with crusty bread, chips, or crackers for an irresistible appetizer.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions is key for a deep, sweet flavor—be patient and cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note, but it’s optional depending on your taste preference.
- For a thicker dip, chill it for 30 minutes before baking or add an extra 1/4 cup of cream cheese.
- Leftover dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies instead of bread or regular chips.
