Elevate your snacking experience with our tantalizing caramelized onion dip recipe! Bursting with savory sweetness, this flavor-packed dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dip? Our sensational caramelized onion dip recipe is a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more!
Made with carefully caramelized onions, this savory delight is perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering. Its rich and irresistible taste paired with crispy chips or fresh veggies will keep your guests coming back for seconds.
Elevate your snacking experience and make every bite a memorable one with our delectable caramelized onion dip.
Ingredients
Our caramelized onion dip recipe is crafted with premium ingredients including slow-cooked onions, creamy sour cream, tangy mayonnaise, and a blend of secret spices. Taste the perfect harmony of flavors in every scoop!
** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.
- Butter
- Onions
- White wine
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Salt & Ground Black Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Sour cream
- Cream cheese
- Parsley
How to Make Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
To enjoy our caramelized onion dip, simply grab your favorite dippable treats, dip them generously into the creamy goodness, and savor the irresistible combination of savory caramelized onions and delectable spices.
** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.
- Saute onions
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare sour cream base and season with herbs and spices.
- Add the caramelized onions. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.
- Cover and refrigerate.
Recipe tips and kitchen tricks
- Prep ahead: Chop and caramelize the onions in advance to save time when making this caramelized onion dip recipe. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Use sweet onions: Opt for sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for a milder and sweeter flavor in your caramelized onion dip.
- Slow and low: Take your time when caramelizing the onions. Cook them slowly over low heat to achieve that rich, deep, and sweet flavor. Rushing the process can result in burnt onions.
- Add a touch of sweetness: Enhance the natural sweetness of caramelized onions by adding a teaspoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey during the cooking process.
- Play with spices: Experiment with different spices to add an extra kick to your dip. Try smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Mix-in variations: Customize your caramelized onion dip by incorporating mix-ins like crispy bacon, shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or diced roasted red peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Let it chill: After preparing the dip, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the dip to thicken, resulting in a more delicious and cohesive dip.
Recipe Variations
- French Onion Dip: Add a touch of classic French flavor by incorporating a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and a sprinkle of Gruyere cheese into your caramelized onion dip recipe.
- Caramelized Onion and Balsamic Dip: Drizzle a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar into your dip for a tangy twist that perfectly complements the sweetness of caramelized onions.
- Spicy Caramelized Onion Dip: Add some heat to your dip by mixing in a teaspoon of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for those who enjoy a fiery kick.
- Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Dip: Take your dip to a gourmet level by crumbling some creamy goat cheese into the mix. The tanginess of the cheese pairs beautifully with the caramelized onions.
- Mediterranean Caramelized Onion Dip: Infuse your dip with Mediterranean flavors by stirring in a tablespoon of chopped black olives, a teaspoon of dried oregano, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with pita bread or fresh veggies for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Chips and Dip: Serve your caramelized onion dip recipe with a variety of crispy chips such as potato chips, tortilla chips, or even homemade pita chips. The combination of the creamy dip and crunchy chips is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Fresh Vegetable Platter: Provide a healthy and refreshing option by pairing your dip with an assortment of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, bell pepper slices, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber rounds. It adds a vibrant touch and balances the richness of the dip.
- Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread, such as sourdough or French bread, and fill it with the caramelized onion dip. Tear the bread pieces into bite-sized chunks and use them as dippers. It’s an enticing and interactive way to serve the dip.
- Slider Topping: Elevate your sliders by spreading a generous dollop of caramelized onion dip onto the buns. It adds a burst of flavor and creaminess to burgers, pulled pork, or even grilled chicken sliders.
- Baked Potato Topping: Transform a simple baked potato into a savory delight by topping it with a spoonful of caramelized onion dip. The creamy dip pairs wonderfully with the fluffy potato, creating a mouthwatering combination. Add some grated cheese, bacon bits, or chives for extra indulgence.
frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to caramelize onions? A: Caramelizing onions usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes on low heat. Slow cooking allows the onions’ natural sugars to develop, resulting in a rich and sweet flavor.
Q: Can I make caramelized onion dip in advance? A: Absolutely! In fact, caramelized onion dip often tastes even better when made in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a stir before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen onions for caramelized onion dip? A: While fresh onions are preferred for caramelizing, you can use frozen onions as a time-saving alternative. However, keep in mind that frozen onions may release more moisture, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I substitute sour cream or mayonnaise in the dip? A: Yes, you can substitute either sour cream or mayonnaise in the dip, depending on your preference. Sour cream will provide a tangier flavor, while mayonnaise will add a creamy richness. You can also use a combination of both for a balanced taste.
Q: Can I make a vegan version of caramelized onion dip? A: Absolutely! To make a vegan caramelized onion dip, substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives like plant-based yogurt or vegan sour cream. Make sure to check the labels to ensure they are free from animal products.
Wine & Cocktail Pairings
Wine Pairings:
- Chardonnay: The buttery and oaky notes of Chardonnay complement the creamy texture and savory flavors of caramelized onion dip. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Rosé: A dry or off-dry rosé offers a refreshing and versatile option for pairing with caramelized onion dip. Its light fruitiness and crispness provide a pleasant contrast to the dip’s sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Malbec: For those who prefer red wine, a medium-bodied Malbec can be an excellent choice. Its dark fruit flavors and velvety tannins enhance the caramelized notes in the dip, creating a satisfying combination.
Cocktail Pairings:
- Classic Martini: The clean and crisp flavors of a classic martini, whether gin or vodka-based, can complement the richness of caramelized onion dip. The herbal notes and slight acidity in the cocktail create a pleasant contrast.
- Moscow Mule: The zingy combination of ginger beer, lime juice, and vodka in a Moscow Mule offers a refreshing and tangy counterpart to the sweetness of the dip. The cocktail’s effervescence can help cleanse the palate between bites.
- Whiskey Sour: The balanced blend of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a Whiskey Sour can provide a delightful contrast to the caramelized onion dip. The cocktail’s citrusy and slightly sweet flavors work well with the dip’s savory profile.
Caramelized Onion Dip
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter , unsalted
- 3 large onions , thinly sliced
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup white wine [See Note 1]
- 2 to 4 dashes Worcestershire Sauce [See Note 2]
- 1-1/2 to 2 teaspoons salt (more or less to taste) [See Note 3]
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder [See Note 4]
- 16 oz sour cream
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 3 tablespoons Italian parsley freshly chopped
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. Add onions.
- Once onions soften and begin to pick up some color along the edges, add the wine.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally until onions are deep golden brown, about 30 minutes.
- Add dashes of Worcestershire Sauce and stir to combine.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mix together the cream cheese and the sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley.
- Stir in the caramelized onions. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate until flavors meld, about 2 hours or up to two days.
Notes
- I used Moscato but you may use any favorite white wine of your choosing. If you prefer to omit the wine, replace with the same amount of water to keep the onions moist while caramelizing.
- If you prefer, replace the Worcestershire Sauce with soy sauce or omit altogether with no replacement.
- I used iodized table salt. Use more or less to taste and be mindful of the chips or other snacks that may also be salty when paired with the dip.
- I used roasted garlic powder for its intense garlic flavor, you may substitute regular garlic powder if you prefer.
Made this for Father’s Day brunch and it was a crowd pleaser
So tasty! I’ll never go back to the packet mix.
Thanks, Caren. You are too kind.
You really are inspiring. Thank you for this amazing dip.
Thanks, Donna.
Love onion dips! Caramelized onions are the best!