Description
This creamy and flavorful Caramelized Onion Dip combines slowly caramelized sweet onions with a smooth blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and garlic powder. Perfect for parties, snacks, or casual gatherings, this dip offers deep, rich onion flavors balanced with creamy tanginess and a touch of fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
For 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)
For Dip
- 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
- Fresh herbs like parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Butter and Start Onions: Heat the 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.
- Caramelize Onions Slowly: Reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Continue cooking the onions slowly, stirring often to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization. This process will take approximately 30 to 60 minutes until onions turn a deep golden brown color. Add a splash of water as needed if the pan becomes too dry.
- Cool Caramelized Onions: Once fully caramelized, remove the pan from heat and allow the onions to cool slightly. These onions can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prepare Dip Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Onions and Dip: Stir the cooled caramelized onions into the sour cream mixture thoroughly until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as preferred.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dip with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley. Serve immediately for a soft texture or refrigerate up to 3 days, allowing the dip to thicken. Bring to room temperature before serving if chilled.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions is a slow process but yields a deep, sweet flavor—be patient and stir frequently to avoid burning.
- You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier alternative.
- The dip thickens when chilled; allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften.
- This dip pairs wonderfully with chips, crackers, raw vegetables, or toasted bread slices.
- To make it in advance, caramelize the onions and refrigerate separately, then mix with the dip base shortly before serving for best texture.