Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

Active Time:

35 mins

Total Time:

35 mins

Servings:

8 to 10

Our caramelized onion dip is always a welcome hit, whether it's an appetizer for a casual gathering or a part of the spread for a special event.

Made by slowly caramelizing several yellow onions before mixing them into a handful of other ingredients, this dip is as delicious as it is simple. The key is to cook the onions over medium heat until they're translucent before reducing the heat to cook until they're brown. This is different than the browning that takes place when onions come in contact with a very hot surface. Rather than sizzling and creating a crusty brown exterior on the onions, this slow browning happens as the sugars in the onions caramelize, becoming richer and sweeter.

After the onions are finished, the hard work is done. All that's left is to create a smooth, tangy base from cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise and Worcestershire sauce. Fold in the onions, and the dip is ready to serve.

Learn how to make caramelized onion dip. Serve with an old-fashioned potato chip, but any starchy snack proves a suitable vessel for such a decadent and flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients for Caramelized Onion Dip

To make this dip, all you need is seven ingredients—most of which you probably already have on hand:

Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the onions evenly brown.
Yellow onions: The star ingredient, adding depth and a sweet flavor to the dip after caramelizing.
Cream cheese: For a creamy, thick dip with a slightly tangy note.
Sour cream: Further enhances the creamy texture and tangy flavor of the dip.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness and a velvety texture.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds savory complexity that balances the sweetness of the onions.
Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the mixture.

How To Make Caramelized Onion Dip

While caramelizing the onions may take some time, the rest of this dip comes together in minutes. Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

Step 1. Caramelize the onions: Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large pot. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 7 minutes. Continue to cook until onions become brown, 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2. Assemble the dip: Beat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in Worcestershire and salt.
Step 3. Add onions: Fold in caramelized onions.

Variations for Caramelized Onion Dip

Some might argue this classic dip should be kept simple. But if you are looking to add a twist to this beloved dip, here are some variation ideas to get you started:

Spices: Add a hint of paprika or cayenne pepper for warmth or heat.
Nuts: Fold in chopped toasted almonds or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Cheese: Stir in grated sharp Cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan cheese for umami flavor.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon can add a salty, meaty bite.
Herbs: Fresh chopped parsley, chives, or thyme add color and an herbal note.
Roasted garlic: If there's anything just as tasty as caramelized onions, it's roasted garlic. Together these two make a powerful pairing.
Lighten it up: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthy touch.
Acidity: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the caramelized onions for a rich flavor and deep color.
Other additions: Stir in cooked spinach or sundried tomatoes for a unique spin.

Can I Make Caramelized Onion Dip Ahead?

Get ahead of your party preparations by making this dip in advance. Prepare as directed and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days for the freshest flavor. The flavors will meld and deepen as it sits. Bring to room temperature before serving, and taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

What To Serve with Caramelized Onion Dip

Pair caramelized onion dip with all of your favorite crunchy accompaniments: Potato chips, tortilla chips, pita chips, pretzels, crackers, carrot sticks, celery sticks, bell peppers, cucumbers, or crostini are all excellent options.

Serve alongside a variety of other quick appetizers for the perfect kick-off to a great meal.

How To Store Leftover Caramelized Onion Dip

Refrigerate leftover caramelized onion dip in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature and season to taste before serving.

More Hearty and Satisfying Dip Recipes You'll Love

Whether you love hot dips, cold dips, or both, these creamy, cheesy, or just plain satisfying dips are sure to be crowd-pleasers at your next event:

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.

Ingredients

3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
3 yellow onions, sliced
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. kosher salt

Directions

Cook onions:

Place oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally until onions are soft and translucent, about 7 minutes. Continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the translucent onions become brown, 10-15 minutes. (Note: The onions should not be crispy or have dark brown spots from contact with the pan, but instead the onions should be soft, semi-translucent, and brown.)
Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo:

With a mixer, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise on medium-high until smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce and salt and stir to combine.
Add onions to dip:

Add caramelized onion and incorporate with a spatula until evenly distributed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is caramelized onion dip gluten-free?

While this dip is typically gluten-free, make sure to check the ingredients (particularly the Worcestershire sauce you're using) to ensure they're certified gluten-free before using, if needed.
What do I do if my onions turn out too dark or bitter?

If your onions end up a little too dark, don't worry. Add a splash of vinegar or pinch of sugar to balance the flavors and the dip will turn out delicious.
Can I make a healthier version of caramelized onion dip?

For a lighter version, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream.