Baked French Onion Dip is a warm, cheesy treat that’s perfect for any gathering. Made with caramelized onions and creamy cheese, it’s rich and flavorful.
This dip is so tasty that once you start, it’s hard to stop! I like to serve it with crunchy chips or fresh veggies—great for sharing (or just keeping to myself)! 😄
Making this dip is a breeze. Just mix everything, bake it until golden, and enjoy the cheesy goodness. It’s always a hit at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onions: Yellow onions are the star here! Their sweetness shines through when caramelized. If you’re out of yellow onions, you could use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a slightly different flavor.
Butter & Olive Oil: The combo of butter and olive oil gives the best flavor for caramelizing. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can use just olive oil, but the butter really adds that rich taste.
Cheeses: Cream cheese is crucial for that creamy base. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead. For the cheese blend, mozzarella is fantastic, but you can mix in cheddar or fontina if you prefer a sharper taste.
Sour Cream vs. Mayonnaise: Both add creaminess, but if you want a tangier dip, choose sour cream. Don’t have either? Try using plain yogurt as a substitute.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is key for depth in flavor! It takes time but is worth it for the sweet, rich taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat and add oil and butter, letting it melt completely.
- Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. The sugar helps with caramelizing.
- Cook slowly, stirring often. If they begin to burn, turn the heat down.
- After about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have beautiful, golden-brown onions. Let them cool slightly before mixing into the dip.
Getting these onions right can make or break your dip, so be patient. You’ll love the flavor they bring!
How to Make Baked French Onion Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Baguette or assorted crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for cooking. Overall, it takes around 40 minutes from start to finish. This will give you a warm, gooey dip that’s perfect for dipping!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important so the dip bakes evenly and gets that nice golden top!
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook while stirring frequently for about 25-30 minutes, or until the onions become deeply caramelized and golden brown. If they start to burn, lower the heat slightly. Once done, set them aside to cool a bit.
3. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper. Using a hand mixer or a spatula, mix until everything is smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy base of your dip!
4. Combine it All Together:
Once the onions have cooled a bit, stir them into the cream cheese mixture. If you’d like, reserve a small amount of onions for topping. Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the mixture and mix well.
5. Bake the Dip:
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet and smooth the top evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Now it’s ready for the oven!
6. Enjoy!
Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or crackers. Get ready to enjoy this delicious dip!
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and cheesy baked French onion dip at your next gathering! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions for This Dip?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are recommended for their sweetness, you can experiment with sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a different flavor profile.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to lighten up the dip, you can substitute the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or an extra half cup of sour cream for a creamier texture without the mayo.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may need to add a splash of liquid if it feels too thick.
Can I Prepare This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dip mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge, covered. Just bake it right before serving. It’s a great way to save time for parties!