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The Ultimate Homemade Caramelized Onion Dip (Creamy, Rich, and Better Than Store-Bought)

Close-up of a creamy caramelized onion dip topped generously with dark, rich caramelized onions and fresh green chives.
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Make this creamy, rich caramelized onion dip from scratch. Slow-cooking the onions creates deep, sweet flavor that outperforms any store-bought version. This is the best party dip for your next gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 cup dry sherry or beef broth (optional, for deglazing)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and 1 teaspoon of salt.
  2. Cook the onions slowly, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes, for 45 to 60 minutes. You want the onions to become deep golden brown and very soft. Do not rush this step; low and slow heat develops the sweetness.
  3. If the onions start to stick to the bottom of the pan, add a tablespoon of water or sherry/broth to scrape up the browned bits (deglaze). Continue cooking until the onions are deeply caramelized.
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the caramelized onions cool for at least 15 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until completely smooth.
  6. Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the cream cheese mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
  7. Taste the dip and add black pepper and additional salt as needed.
  8. For the best flavor, cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld.
  9. Before serving, transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh chives. Serve cold or at room temperature with chips, crackers, or vegetables.

Notes

  • For an extra savory dip, you can bake this recipe. Place the mixed dip in an oven-safe dish, top with 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until warm and bubbly.
  • If you want a shortcut, you can use shallots instead of onions; they caramelize faster.
  • This dip is a fantastic make ahead appetizer; it tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/caramelized-onion-dip-recipe-ultimate-creamy/