Make a rich, deeply flavored caramelized onion dip completely from scratch. This recipe skips the soup mix for slow-cooked onions, resulting in a creamy, savory party appetizer.
Author:David Bako
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:60 min
Total Time:75 min
Yield:About 2 cups
Category:Appetizer
Method:Stovetop and Chilling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions
Combine the sliced onions, butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat.
Cook the onions slowly, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes. Allow them to cook undisturbed for several minutes at a time to promote browning. This process takes 45 to 60 minutes until the onions are deep brown and sweet.
Remove the caramelized onions from the heat and let them cool slightly, about 15 minutes.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to the cream cheese. Mix until just combined.
Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the cream cheese mixture. If using, stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese.
Cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve cold with chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks. For a hot version, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
The slow cooking of the onions is key; do not rush this step to achieve the deep, sweet flavor that replaces the need for dried onion soup mix.
For an extra savory note, add 2 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon when folding in the onions.
This dip tastes best when made a day ahead of serving.