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Caramelized French Onion Dip

This rich and creamy French onion dip elevates the classic party staple with deeply caramelized onions, a touch of umami from Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of brightness from lemon juice. The slow-cooked onions develop a complex sweetness, balanced by the tanginess of sour cream and the richness of mayonnaise. Parmesan cheese adds depth, while fresh chives provide a final burst of freshness. Perfect for pairing with crispy potato chips, vegetable crudités, or toasted baguette slices, this dip is a crowd-pleaser that improves in flavor as it rests. Whether served at a casual gathering or an elegant soirée, its bold, savory profile makes it irresistible.

Snack | French | Dip | Food Processor | Frying Pan | Mixing Bowl | Mayonnaise (ingredient) | Onion | Parmesan | Sour Cream | Caramelizing | Chopping | Stirring | Party | Make-Ahead
Time to complete

Prep

15min

Cook

20min

Wait

1h

Total

1h 35min

Ingredients (Makes 6 servings)

Caramelized Onions

  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 3 large yellow onions, finely diced (about 1 quart / 950 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup (120 ml) water

Dip Base

  • ¾ cup (180 ml) sour cream
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ ounce (14 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving/Garnishing

  • 1 tablespoon finely sliced chives
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 180
  • Fat: 14
  • Protein: 3
  • Carbohydrates: 10
  • Fiber: 1
Directions

Caramelizing the Onions

  • 1. Heat sugar in a 12-inch stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat until fully melted and light brown, about 3 minutes.
  • 2. Immediately add diced onions and stir to coat in the caramelized sugar. Add butter, salt, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
  • 3. Cook, shaking the pan occasionally, until onions release their liquid and a brown coating forms on the bottom, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Deglazing and Deepening Flavor

  • 4. Add 2 tablespoons of water and shake the pan while scraping with a wooden spoon to deglaze the browned bits.
  • 5. Continue cooking, shaking occasionally, until the coating builds up again, about every 2 minutes. Repeat deglazing and cooking steps three more times until all water is used and onions are deep brown.
  • 6. Transfer caramelized onions to a medium mixing bowl and allow to cool at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Preparing the Dip

  • 7. Add sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and Worcestershire sauce to the cooled onions. Whisk to combine until smooth.
  • 8. For a silkier texture, blend the mixture in a food processor for 1 minute until smooth.

Chilling and Serving

  • 9. Transfer the dip to a sealed container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 5 days for enhanced flavor).
  • 10. Spoon into a serving bowl, garnish with chives, and serve with potato chips or vegetable crudités.
Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Method

  • Roast the onions in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a deeper, smokier flavor.

Alternative Proteins

  • Mix in finely chopped cooked bacon or smoked salmon for a richer, savory twist.

Bold Flavor Enhancements

  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.

Caramelizing Onions

  • Use a stainless-steel skillet for better browning and flavor development.

Enhancing Flavor

  • Allow the dip to rest in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to deepen the flavors.

Healthier Version

  • Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich alternative.

Seasonal Tweaks

  • In summer, incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a brighter taste.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with thick-cut potato chips or toasted baguette slices for the best texture contrast.