Description
This Caramelized Onion Dip recipe offers a rich and savory flavor thanks to slowly cooked sweet onions combined with a creamy base of sour cream and mayonnaise. Perfect for parties, snacks, or as a flavorful accompaniment to chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables, this dip balances sweetness and tanginess with the warmth of garlic and the freshness of parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 sweet onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)
Dip Base
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Additional kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh herbs like parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until fully melted. Add the chopped sweet onions along with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to soften and become translucent.
- Slow Cook the Onions: Reduce the heat to low or medium-low to allow the onions to cook slowly, stirring often. Continue cooking for 30 to 60 minutes until the onions turn a dark golden brown and caramelize fully. If the pan gets too dry during this process, add a small splash of water to prevent sticking, and adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.
- Cool the Onions: Once caramelized, remove the onions from heat and let them cool slightly. You may prepare the caramelized onions up to a day in advance by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Dip Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Finish: Stir the cooled caramelized onions into the dip base mixture thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper according to preference.
- Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or other herbs of choice. Serve immediately with chips, crackers, or vegetables, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. The dip will thicken as it chills, but can be brought back to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions is a slow process but essential for the dip’s rich flavor; patience yields the best results.
- If you prefer a lighter dip, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat content.
- The dip can be made a day ahead, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Use fresh herbs like chives or dill as an alternative garnish for different flavor profiles.
- Adjust garlic powder quantity based on your preference for a milder or more pronounced garlic taste.
