Description
Savory caramelization meets creamy comfort in this jammy hot caramelized onion dip, promising a rich flavor explosion that elevates any gathering. Golden-brown onions blend seamlessly with warm spices, inviting you to dive into an irresistible appetizer that sparks conversation and delights taste buds.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions:
- 3 large onions
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Cheese and Dairy:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) Parmesan cheese, grated
Seasonings and Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) additional shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Transform onions into a rich, golden delicacy by melting butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Introduce sliced onions with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper, gently stirring throughout the 25-30 minute caramelization process.
- Enhance the caramelized onions with a splash of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly while preparing the base.
- Craft a creamy foundation by blending cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheeses, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a spacious mixing bowl.
- Fold the caramelized onions into the creamy mixture, reserving a small portion for the final garnish. Preserve the visual appeal and flavor intensity.
- Preheat the oven to 375F (190C), creating an ideal environment for transforming the dip into a bubbling masterpiece.
- Transfer the luscious mixture into a small baking dish, ensuring an even spread for consistent heating.
- Embellish the surface with additional shredded cheese and the reserved caramelized onions, creating an enticing golden topping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip achieves a golden, effervescent appearance with crispy edges.
- Optionally, sprinkle fresh chives across the surface for a vibrant finishing touch.
- Serve immediately alongside toasted bread, crisp crackers, or crunchy chips for an irresistible appetizer experience.
Notes
- Slow-cooking onions is key to developing rich, sweet flavor without burning them, so maintain low and steady heat throughout caramelization.
- Utilizing both butter and olive oil creates a perfect balance of richness and preventing butter from burning during long cooking process.
- Balsamic vinegar and optional brown sugar amplify natural sweetness of onions, adding depth and complexity to the caramelization.
- Make ahead and refrigerate dip mixture for up to 2 days before baking, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.
- For gluten-free version, serve with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks like cucumber and bell pepper slices.
- Reduce calories by substituting full-fat cream cheese with low-fat version or Greek yogurt without compromising creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 203 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 184 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 43 mg