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Best Homemade Caramelized Onion Dip From Scratch

A white ramekin filled with creamy onion dip, generously topped with crispy caramelized onions.

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Make the best creamy onion dip without using a mix. This recipe focuses on slow-cooking onions to achieve deep, savory flavor for a gourmet party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup sour cream, full fat
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise, full fat
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

Instructions

  1. Combine the butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to coat the onions evenly.
  3. Cook the onions slowly, stirring every 5 to 7 minutes, for 40 to 50 minutes. Reduce the heat if the onions start to brown too quickly. You want them deeply softened and caramelized to a rich brown color.
  4. Once the onions are fully caramelized, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder. Cook for 1 more minute. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the onions cool completely, about 20 minutes.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
  6. Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the sour cream mixture until evenly distributed.
  7. Taste the dip and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the onion dip for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully meld.
  9. Serve your ultimate crowd pleaser dip cold with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • For the deepest flavor, do not rush the caramelization process; low and slow cooking builds the best savory base.
  • You can make the caramelized onions up to three days ahead and store them in the refrigerator before mixing the dip.
  • This dip is excellent served as a make ahead party dip for game day appetizers.

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