This warm and cheesy Baked French Onion Dip is a crowd-pleaser! Made with caramelized onions, creamy cheese, and just a touch of seasoning, it’s perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
You can’t beat that cheesy goodness bubbling away in the oven! I love serving it with crispy chips or soft bread. It’s tough to resist going back for seconds (or thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onions: Sweet onions like Vidalia are ideal for caramelizing. They add sweetness as they cook. If you’re in a pinch, yellow onions work too. Just be prepared for a slightly more pungent flavor.
Cheese: Gruyère is my favorite for its nutty flavor, but Swiss cheese can easily replace it. You could also try cheddar for a sharper taste. A blend adds more depth!
Sour Cream: For a tangy kick, you can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt. It’s creamier but keeps the dip light. Just adjust the seasoning slightly for taste.
Mayonnaise: If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. It keeps the dip creamy without all the calories.
How Do I Caramelize Onions to Perfection?
Caramelizing onions is key to that rich flavor in the dip. It takes time, so don’t rush! Here’s how:
- Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, stirring to coat. Cook slowly for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle sugar halfway through to enhance sweetness.
- In the last few minutes, add garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until fragrant.
Watch for that golden brown color—it’s worth the wait!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dip?
When it comes to serving, warm baguette slices are my go-to! They add a nice crunch. You can also use pita chips, tortilla chips, or even veggies for dipping. Make sure to serve it warm so that the cheese is gooey and delicious!
Baked French Onion Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus extra to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
For Serving:
- Baguette or sliced bread, toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Plan for about 45-50 minutes total, including caramelizing the onions and letting the dip cook until bubbly and golden brown. It’s worth every minute for the amazing flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your dip!
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and give them a good stir to coat. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and deeply caramelized—this will take about 25-30 minutes. Add the sugar halfway through to boost sweetness and help with that golden color.
3. Flavor It Up:
During the last few minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook just until the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes, and then remove the skillet from heat. Let the onions cool slightly.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Then, stir in the caramelized onions, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the Gruyère cheese.
5. Assemble the Dip:
Transfer the creamy onion mixture into a baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula, and sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want it to be bubbling and golden brown on top.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite dipping bread. Enjoy!
This Baked French Onion Dip is perfect for gatherings and you’ll love the cheesy, savory goodness in every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While sweet onions like Vidalia are perfect for caramelization due to their natural sweetness, yellow onions can be used as well. Just remember that they will have a stronger flavor!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture a day in advance! Once it’s assembled, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving when you’re ready—no need to thaw!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if needed to maintain creaminess.
What Can I Serve with This Dip?
This dip pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like carrots and celery sticks. Feel free to get creative with your dippers!
