This Caramelized Onion Dip is a creamy, dreamy treat with sweet, golden onions mixed in. It’s perfect for chips or veggies, making every bite rich and delicious!
Honestly, I can’t resist this dip at parties. It’s like the star of the snack table! Pair it with crunchy chips, and you’ll find yourself going back for more. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are the star of this dip! Their natural sweetness comes out beautifully when caramelized. If you don’t have yellow onions, white onions work too, but they may have a sharper taste.
Unsalted Butter: This adds a rich flavor to the onions. You can substitute with margarine or a plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: It gives creaminess to the dip. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds thickness and a tangy flavor.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness. For an egg-free version, consider using a vegan mayo. You can also reduce the amount for a lighter dip.
Fresh Parsley: It adds a fresh taste and color. You can replace it with chives or green onions for a different twist.
How Do You Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
The key to delicious caramelized onions is patience! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a large skillet to give onions room to spread out, which helps them cook evenly.
- Start at medium heat and adjust as necessary. If they’re cooking too fast, turn it down!
- Don’t rush! Stir them occasionally, but let them sit for a few moments to get that beautiful golden color.
- If they start to stick, add a splash of water to loosen them up—this helps prevent burning.
- Keep an eye on them as they cook—when they’re deep golden and smell amazing, they’re ready!
Caramelized Onion Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for onions)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for faster caramelization)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes in total: 30 minutes to caramelize the onions and about 10 minutes to mix everything together. Don’t forget to chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize Onions:
Start by melting the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions along with the salt. Stir well to coat the onions evenly with the butter and oil. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes. You want them to be deep golden brown and caramelized. If they seem to be cooking too slowly, you can sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar to help speed things up! Remember to watch them closely and if they start to stick, just splash in a bit of water to loosen them up.
2. Cool the Onions:
Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, remove them from the heat and set them aside to cool to room temperature. This will help keep your dip from getting runny when you mix it together.
3. Mix the Dip:
In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chopped parsley, and some salt to taste. Mix the ingredients until well combined. Now, gently fold the cooled caramelized onions into this creamy mixture. Be sure to save a few teaspoons of the onions for garnishing at the end!
4. Chill and Serve:
Transfer your delicious dip to a serving bowl and spread it out evenly. Top it with the reserved caramelized onions and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that added touch. Pop it in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes to help meld all those lovely flavors together.
5. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to serve! Enjoy this rich and creamy caramelized onion dip with crunchy potato chips, crispy crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks. It’s seriously irresistible!
Can I Use Sweet Onions Instead of Yellow Onions?
Absolutely! Sweet onions like Vidalia can add a different flavor profile that is fantastic when caramelized. Just keep in mind they might be sweeter than yellow onions, so adjust the added sugar accordingly if you choose to use it.
Is It Possible to Make This Dip Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this dip vegan by substituting the sour cream with a vegan yogurt and using a plant-based mayo. Also, opt for vegan butter or olive oil for caramelizing the onions!
How Long Will This Dip Last in the Fridge?
This dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to refresh the consistency and flavors!
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Definitely! You can caramelize the onions a day ahead. Just cool them completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and mix them into the dip when you’re ready to serve!