Description
This Caramelized Onion Dip is a rich and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Sweet onions are slowly caramelized to develop deep, savory sweetness, then combined with cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of spices and fresh chives to create a creamy, irresistible dip. Serve with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 medium sweet onions, halved and cut into ¼-inch-thick slices
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
Dip Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become softened and translucent, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, sprinkle the onions with brown sugar, and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and caramelized, about 30 to 40 minutes. Remove from heat and let the onions cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy with no lumps. This will create the base for the dip.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooled caramelized onions into the cream mixture. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, chopped fresh chives, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dip.
- Serve and Store: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately with your choice of chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 5 days for later enjoyment.
Notes
- For best flavor, allow the caramelized onions to cool completely before mixing into the cream base to maintain the dip’s creamy texture.
- Use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for more natural sweetness and better caramelization.
- If preferred, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
- Make this dip a day in advance and refrigerate to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
- To lighten the dip, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use light cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
