Name: Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon sugar; 1 1/2 cups sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional); Potato chips for serving

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Looking for the ultimate party snack that’s irresistibly creamy, packed with sweet, savory flavor, and totally crave-worthy? Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips is a game-changer for any gathering—whether it’s a laid-back movie night or your next big bash. With deeply caramelized onions swirled into a tangy, smooth base, and classic crunchy chips for scooping, this dip has that addictive, just-one-more-bite magic. If you love bold, rich flavors and easy appetizers that disappear faster than they appear, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your entertainment rotation!

Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips is wonderfully simple, relying on a handful of staples that each bring their own essential flair. Every ingredient pulls its weight, from the richness of butter to the zip of sour cream, all working together to create that classic layered flavor and creamy texture you’ll love dunking your chips into.

Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a luxurious, rich base that helps the onions turn gloriously golden and flavorful.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the butter from burning and gives extra depth to the caramelized onions.
Yellow onions, thinly sliced (2 large): The real star, transforming with patience into sweet, jammy ribbons packed with umami.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Pulls moisture from the onions to help with proper caramelization and balances all the flavors.
Sugar (1/2 teaspoon): Speeds up the caramelization, helping the onions reach deep golden-brown perfection.
Sour cream (1 1/2 cups): Delivers tang and creaminess—the signature base for irresistible dip texture.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Makes everything velvet-smooth and adds a hint of richness.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): For just the right touch of savory depth, without overpowering the onions.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick that accentuates the sweet and savory notes.
Worcestershire sauce (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Brings a little savory tang and rounds out the flavor profile, but delicious even without.
Potato chips (for serving): The must-have crunchy vehicle that pairs perfectly with this luscious dip.

How to Make Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions Slowly

Set a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter and olive oil, letting them melt together. Toss in the thinly sliced onions, sprinkle over the salt and sugar, and stir to coat. Now, patience is your secret weapon! Cook the onions gently, stirring every few minutes, for 25 to 30 minutes. Lower the heat if they start to brown too quickly. You’ll watch as they transform from fresh and sharp to soft, golden, and intoxicatingly sweet. That deep caramelization makes the flavor of your Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips truly stand out.

Step 2: Cool the Onions Completely

Once the onions are sticky and deep amber in color, take the skillet off the heat and let them cool fully. This is important because adding hot onions to your creamy base could make the dip runny. Give them enough time or spread them on a plate to help speed things up.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Stir until fully blended and smooth. This is your canvas, and you’re about to add the starring ingredient!

Step 4: Fold in the Caramelized Onions

Gently fold the cooled onions into the creamy base. At this stage, the beauty of Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips comes together. Stir just until the onions are evenly distributed so every scoop is loaded with flavor.

Step 5: Chill for Flavor Magic

Cover the dip and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Don’t skip this step! Giving the flavors time to mingle is what makes the dip truly spectacular. The result is a richer, more cohesive taste that will have everyone reaching for another chip.

Step 6: Serve with Potato Chips

When you’re ready to serve, transfer the dip to your favorite bowl and arrange plenty of potato chips on the side. Your homemade Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips is ready to take center stage!

How to Serve Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips

Garnishes

For an inviting touch, top your Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips with thinly sliced chives, finely chopped parsley, or crisp-fried shallots. These little extras add color and a fresh pop that balances the dip’s richness.

Side Dishes

Pairing is all about variety—set out some crunchy veggies like carrot sticks, radishes, and bell pepper strips alongside the chips. The fresh snap of vegetables compliments the creamy, savory dip and adds a lighter option for guests.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the classic chip-and-dip platter! Try serving Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips in mini cups for individual portions, hollowed-out bread bowls for rustic charm, or tucked in a trio with other homemade dips for a grazing board everyone will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, and the dip becomes even more delicious, so don’t hesitate to enjoy it for a few days after making it!

Freezing

While you technically can freeze this dip, the texture of the sour cream and mayo can change after thawing, becoming watery or grainy. For the best taste and creaminess, it’s recommended to make only what you’ll enjoy within a few days and keep it refrigerated.

Reheating

This dip is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If it’s been chilled, just give it a quick stir and let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving, so it softens to the perfect dipping consistency. No heating necessary—easy and stress-free!

FAQs

Can I use red onions instead of yellow?

Absolutely! Red onions will bring a slightly sweeter flavor and a different color, which can look beautiful in the final Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips. The overall taste will still be delicious, just a bit more robust and colorful.

Is it possible to make this dip vegan?

Yes, you can easily make a vegan version by swapping in plant-based butter, vegan mayo, and a dairy-free sour cream alternative. The caramelization method for the onions remains the same, so you’ll still get that deep, irresistible flavor.

What are the best chips for dipping?

Thick, sturdy potato chips work best since they can hold up to this hearty, creamy dip. Kettle-cooked chips are especially great for scooping, but classic ruffled or wavy chips are also fantastic partners for Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips.

Can I make the onions in advance?

Definitely! You can caramelize the onions up to two days ahead and store them in a covered container in the fridge. When ready to assemble, just fold them into the creamy base as usual.

How can I lighten up this dip?

Try using Greek yogurt for half (or all) of the sour cream to cut down on fat and increase the protein. The dip will still be creamy and flavorful, with a bit more tang for a lighter spin on Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to delight friends and family with a truly crowd-pleasing appetizer, Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips is the answer every single time. Give it a try for your next get-together, and watch it disappear—just be ready to share the recipe, because everyone will want a scoop (or three) of this party-perfect classic!

Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips Recipe

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4.6 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this Caramelized Onion Dip with Potato Chips. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, this homemade chip dip is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Caramelized Onions:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar

For the Dip:

1 1/2 cups sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Potato chips for serving

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Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and caramelized. Let cool.
Prepare the Dip: In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Fold in the cooled onions. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
Serve: Enjoy the dip with potato chips.