Make-Ahead Caramelized Onion Dip for Any Occasion
Caramelized Onion Dip is one of those recipes that feels extra special but is actually really simple to make. The key is slowly cooking the onions until they’re golden, sweet, and packed with flavor—no shortcuts, but totally worth it. Once they’re cooled, you mix them into a creamy base of sour cream, cream cheese and mayo for a dip that’s rich, savory, and irresistibly good.
I like to make a batch ahead of time since it tastes even better after chilling for a bit. Serve it with potato chips, crackers, or crisp veggies—whatever you have on hand. This dip always disappears quickly and is one of those dependable go-to recipes you’ll want to keep around.
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Equipment You Will Need
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Spatula
- Food processor
- Serving bowl
Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
This Caramelized Onion Dip is rich, creamy, and packed with deep, savory flavor from slow-cooked onions. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make dip that pairs perfectly with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for any occasion.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups
Ingredients
2 yellow onions
4 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon chives, sliced
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Start by peeling and thinly slicing your onions.
- On medium-high heat melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Stir occasionally. Lower the heat when they start to brown. Then cook some more on medium-low heat. This process can take about 20-25 minutes.
- In a food processor, add the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and season with salt and pepper, and process until smooth.
- Once your onions are caramelized, let them cool off for 5 minutes, and then add to the dip in the processor and pulse for just a second to mix the onions in.
- Garnish with chives and serve with chips.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
Step-By-Step Process





Caramelized Onion Dip is perfect for game day snacks, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want something delicious and homemade. It’s easy to prep ahead and keeps well in the fridge, which makes it a reliable option for entertaining.
For more tasty, no-fuss appetizers, be sure to explore the other party food recipes on the blog. You’re bound to find a few new favorites to add to your list.
If you love dips with bold flavor, try the Whipped Feta Dip or the Smoked Salmon Dip—both are easy, creamy, and great for sharing. For more flavorful dips? Check out this collection of easy dip recipes perfect for any occasion!
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