I make this dip a lot for quick snacks and small get-togethers. I learned to cook the onions slow. That step makes a big taste change. I keep a jar in the fridge for the week and use it with chips or raw veg.
I bring it to barbecues and weekday movie nights. It saves time because the base is easy to mix. When I need a simple side, I grab this dip and some crackers. It fits warm or cold plates and goes well with many meals.
This recipe is a creamy onion dip made from caramelized onions mixed into a sour cream and mayo base. It has a rich onion flavor and a mild tang from the sour cream. People often make it for snacks, parties, or simple weeknight sides. It pairs well with chips, vegetables, and sandwiches. For a small party idea, try serving it with warm bread and a platter of raw veg or a platter that matches a French dip sliders recipe.
Why make this recipe
This dish is worth making because it takes few hands-on minutes once the onions are done. The slow cook of the onions builds deep flavor without fancy tools. It stores well and improves if you make it ahead. The flavor fits many foods, so you can use small jars for lunches or a big bowl for guests. It is also flexible with heat and herbs. If you want a fuller meal, try pairing it with a warm casserole idea like French onion chicken orzo casserole for a themed menu.
How to make this recipe
You start by slowly turning plain onions into sweet, brown pieces. Then you cool them and fold them into a simple mix of sour cream and mayo. The process links a long, low cook with a short, cool rest in the fridge. Expect about 30 to 40 minutes of cooking and then a couple hours in the fridge to let flavors join. The mix should be smooth and the onions spread through the dip. The hard part is patience while the onions brown.
Ingredients
2 large yellow onions, finely sliced, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
The two onions give the dip its main taste. Butter and olive oil help the onions caramelize without burning. Salt brings out the onion’s natural sweetness. Sour cream and mayonnaise make the dip smooth and tangy. Garlic and onion powder add steady background notes. Black pepper gives a small bite. Fresh chives add color and a fresh finish. Each part is simple but it all matters for the final texture and flavor.
Directions
Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, butter, olive oil, and salt to the skillet. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes until onions are deeply caramelized. Let onions cool slightly once caramelized. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Gently fold in the cooled caramelized onions until well mixed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chives and serve with chips or veggies.
Notes: Cook the onions low so they turn sweet and brown, not burned. Let them cool so they do not thin the dip. Chilling helps the flavors blend and makes the dip taste rounder. Use a wide pan for even browning.
How to serve this recipe
Serve it cold or at fridge temperature. Put it in a small bowl and add extra chives on top. Offer chips, sliced cucumbers, carrot sticks, or warm bread. It works as a snack, a party dip, or a side for sandwiches. For a fuller spread, pair it with a warm main like another orzo casserole version or with roasted veggies. Keep a spoon handy so guests can add more or less.
How to store this recipe
Put the dip in an airtight container and place it in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 4 to 5 days. If you want longer storage, freeze in small portions in freezer-safe tubs for up to 2 months, but the texture may change slightly after thawing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use. Stir well before serving. Always use a clean spoon to avoid adding bacteria that speed spoilage.
Tips to make this recipe
Use a wide, heavy pan to caramelize the onions evenly. Stir every few minutes to avoid hot spots. If onions stick, add a splash of water and scrape the pan. Cool the onions fully before mixing so the dip stays thick. Taste and adjust salt after chilling. If the dip feels thin, chill longer. If it is too strong, add a bit more sour cream. Fresh chives make a visible difference, so trim them just before serving.
Variation
Swap half the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier and slightly lighter dip. Use smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a mild smokiness or heat. For a dairy-free version, try a vegan mayo and a plant-based sour cream substitute, though the texture will be a bit different. Keep in mind that the slow-cooked onion flavor is the core. Too many swaps can hide that key taste, so small changes work best.
FAQs
Q: Can I speed up the onion cook time?
A: You can cook them a bit hotter, but watch closely. Fast cooks risk burning and a bitter taste.
Q: Can I use pre-made caramelized onions?
A: Yes. Drain excess oil and cool well before mixing.
Q: How long before serving should I chill the dip?
A: At least 2 hours, but overnight is better for flavor.
Q: Is this dip gluten-free?
A: Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Check chips or dippers for gluten.
Conclusion
This recipe is a simple way to add a rich onion flavor to snacks and small meals. It fits quick nights and weekend plans. The slow cook step gives depth, and the rest time brings the flavors together. If you want another take on homemade versions, see the Homemade French Onion Dip – RecipeTin Eats for a detailed method, or try a different twist from Easy French Onion Dip Recipe – The Pioneer Woman for more ideas.
Print
Creamy Onion Dip
- Total Time: 150 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy onion dip made with caramelized onions, sour cream, and mayonnaise, perfect for snacks or small gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, butter, olive oil, and salt to the skillet.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes until onions are deeply caramelized.
- Let onions cool slightly once caramelized.
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Gently fold in the cooled caramelized onions until well mixed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chives and serve with chips or veggies.
Notes
Cook the onions low to achieve sweetness and avoid burning. Let them cool before mixing to maintain dip thickness. Chilling enhances flavor integration.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
