Description
This creamy and flavorful Caramelized Onion Dip is perfect for parties, snacks, or any casual gathering. Slow-cooked sweet onions are caramelized to golden perfection and blended with cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for a rich, tangy dip. Finished with fresh chives and reserved onions for garnish, this dip delivers a perfect balance of savory sweetness and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 pounds sweet onions, halved and sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Dip Base
- 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Seasoning and Garnish
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt the butter in a large skillet over low to medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and brown sugar, then cook while stirring often until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized, about 45-55 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Remove the skillet from heat once deglazed.
- Add Vinegar and Worcestershire Sauce: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce to the onion mixture.
- Cool the Onions: Let the caramelized onion mixture cool completely. Set aside 2 tablespoons of onions for garnish if desired.
- Prepare the Dip Base: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Mix Onions with Dip Base: Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the creamy mixture. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve or Chill: Garnish the dip with the reserved caramelized onions and chopped fresh chives. Serve immediately or cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for enhanced flavors.
Notes
- Cooking the onions slowly over low heat is key for achieving deep caramelization without burning.
- If you prefer a thicker dip, refrigerate for a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld and the dip firm up.
- Use a good quality dry white wine for best flavor; substitute with a splash of vegetable broth if preferred.
- This dip pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables, crackers, or toasted bread slices.
- Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
