Description
This rich and creamy Caramelized Onion Dip combines deeply caramelized sweet onions with a smooth blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Enhanced with garlic powder and fresh chives, it’s perfect for entertaining or as a flavorful snack to pair with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced (preferably Vidalia)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Dip Base
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped, divided
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for 40 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deep brown and become very soft, developing a rich, sweet flavor.
- Season the Onions: Sprinkle the caramelized onions with kosher salt and black pepper, continue cooking for a few more minutes to let the seasoning meld in.
- Set Aside Onions for Garnish: Reserve about two tablespoons of the caramelized onions for garnishing the finished dip. Allow the remaining onions to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Dip Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add Flavorings and Onions: Stir in ground garlic powder and two tablespoons of the chopped fresh chives into the creamy base. Fold in the cooled caramelized onions gently to maintain their texture.
- Chill and Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with the reserved caramelized onions and remaining chives.
Notes
- Use Vidalia or other sweet onions for best caramelization and flavor.
- Cooking the onions low and slow is key; resist the urge to increase heat to avoid burning.
- Dip can be made a day ahead to deepen the flavor.
- Serve with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables like carrot sticks and celery.
