French Onion Dip Recipe (with Caramelized Onions)

There’s something magical about the creamy, rich flavor of French onion dip paired with the savory sweetness of caramelized onions.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and absolutely irresistible when served with crispy potato chips.

Here’s how you can create your own homemade French onion dip that’s fresher, tastier, and healthier than any store-bought version.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delectable French onion dip, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large sweet onion, finely diced (about 2 cups)
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 4 oz. cream cheese (let it come to room temperature for easier mixing)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives (plus extra for garnish)
• Kosher salt to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French onion dip is more than just a snack — it’s an experience. The caramelized onions add a layer of natural sweetness that balances perfectly with the creamy base.

The dip is rich and satisfying, yet it’s made from simple ingredients you likely already have at home. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it with chips, crackers, fresh vegetables, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

Your guests will rave about it, and it’s so easy to whip up that you might find yourself making it again and again.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating olive oil and butter together in a large sauté pan over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter ensures the onions won’t burn while they develop their rich, sweet flavor.

Add the finely diced sweet onion to the pan, along with a pinch of Kosher salt to help draw out the moisture. Stir occasionally to coat the onion evenly in the buttery mixture. Let the onions cook for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften and turn golden.

Lower the heat to prevent burning and continue cooking for an additional 20–25 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any caramelized bits. If the onions start to dry out, add a splash of water to keep them moist.

You’ll know the onions are ready when they’re a deep amber color and incredibly fragrant. Remove them from the heat and let them cool completely before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Blend the Creamy Base

While the onions cool, prepare the creamy base. In a food processor, combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add a generous pinch of Kosher salt for seasoning. Blend the ingredients until they’re smooth and velvety.

If you don’t have a food processor, an electric hand mixer works just as well. Simply place all the ingredients in a large bowl and beat them together until you achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Once the onions are cool, transfer the creamy mixture to a large mixing bowl. Fold in the caramelized onions and chopped chives, stirring gently to ensure they’re evenly distributed. Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning with more salt or a few cracks of fresh black pepper if needed.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. For an added touch of elegance, sprinkle some extra sliced chives on top. Serve immediately with your favorite chips — classic Ruffles work beautifully — or a selection of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper slices.

This dip can also be made a few hours ahead of time. Refrigerating it allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the creamy base.

Pro Tips for Perfect French Onion Dip

1. Use Sweet Onions: Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully, creating a deep, rich flavor.
2. Don’t Rush the Onions: Caramelization takes time but is worth the effort. Stirring too often prevents browning, so let them sit for a few minutes between stirs.
3. Make It Your Own: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy or smoky twist.
4. Double the Recipe: This dip disappears quickly, so consider making a larger batch if you’re serving a crowd.

Why Homemade Is Better

Making French onion dip from scratch ensures you control every ingredient, avoiding preservatives or artificial flavors often found in store-bought versions. Plus, the freshness of homemade dip is unmatched, with the caramelized onions providing a natural sweetness that elevates the entire dish.

Serving Suggestions

While potato chips are a classic pairing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this dip:

• Vegetables: Carrot sticks, celery, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
• Crackers: Whole-grain or seeded crackers complement the creaminess of the dip.
• Bread: Sliced baguette or warm pita bread for a heartier option.
• Toppings: Use as a spread for sandwiches or burgers, or dollop it onto baked potatoes.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly.

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