Baked French Onion Dip is a warm, cheesy treat that’s perfect for snacking! Made with creamy cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a touch of seasoning, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
This dip is as comforting as a big hug! I love serving it with crunchy chips and watching everyone dig in. It’s hard to stop at just one bite—you’ll see! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are perfect for caramelizing because of their natural sweetness. If you can’t find yellow onions, white onions work too, but they may be a bit sharper. Sweet onions are another great option for a more mellow flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds a creaminess to the dip. Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative if you need a healthier option. Just make sure to choose plain, unsweetened yogurt for the best flavor!
Cream Cheese: A must for that rich, creamy texture! If you want to keep it lighter, try using a reduced-fat cream cheese or even some ricotta for a different texture, although it will be less smooth.
Gruyère Cheese: This cheese brings in fantastic flavor, but if it’s hard to find, Swiss cheese makes a good substitute. For something sharper, try using cheddar cheese instead.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is key to achieving that delicious flavor in your dip. It takes a bit of patience, but the taste is worth it! Here’s how to get the best results:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add butter and olive oil.
- Once the butter is melted, add the sliced onions and sugar. The sugar helps with caramelization.
- Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes. This allows them to become golden and sweet.
- Add minced garlic and thyme in the last 2 minutes to keep the garlic from burning.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for great flavor!
How to Make Baked French Onion Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
For Serving:
- Slices of toasted baguette or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dip takes about 40-45 minutes to prepare and bake. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping ingredients and then around 30 minutes for cooking and baking. Perfect for a quick yet indulgent treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Cook the Onions:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle the sugar over them. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn deeply caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 25-30 minutes. In the last 2 minutes, mix in the minced garlic and thyme for added flavor. Once done, remove from heat and let the onions cool slightly.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise. Use a whisk or spoon to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This base is what makes the dip so rich and delicious!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Gently fold the caramelized onions into the sour cream mixture, saving a little for the top if you like. Add the Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Next, stir in half of the shredded Gruyère cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese for that cheesy goodness!
4. Bake Your Dip:
Transfer your dip mixture to a small oven-safe baking dish or cast-iron skillet, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese evenly over the dip to create a beautiful, cheesy top. Now, bake it in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your warm Baked French Onion Dip with slices of toasted baguette or your favorite crackers for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
Happy snacking on your creamy, savory dip! 🧀🥖
Can I Use Different Types of Onions for This Dip?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing due to their sweetness, you can also use white onions or sweet onions for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that red onions may yield a sharper taste.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short increments, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Dip Healthier?
Definitely! You can swap sour cream and cream cheese for Greek yogurt and use low-fat or reduced-fat versions of mayonnaise and cheese. This will lighten the dip while still keeping it creamy and flavorful!
