Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

French Onion Dip Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 28 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic French Onion Dip recipe features sweet caramelized onions blended into a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Perfectly seasoned with thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder, this dip is an ideal appetizer served with potato chips or fresh crudités. It offers a rich, savory flavor with a smooth texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.


Ingredients

Caramelized Onions

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large sweet onions, chopped (about 3 cups)
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Dip Base

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (best quality such as Hellmann’s or Duke’s)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon sugar

For Serving

  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives (optional)
  • Potato chips or crudités


Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook the onions, stirring frequently, until they are soft and deeply caramelized, about 20 minutes. If the onions begin to burn, reduce the heat. Near the end of cooking, deglaze the pan by adding one tablespoon of water at a time and scraping up the browned bits with a spatula, using only a few tablespoons total. Transfer the caramelized onions to a plate and allow them to cool.
  2. Prepare the Dip Base: In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or beaters, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and sugar. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  3. Combine and Season: Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the creamy mixture, ensuring they are evenly incorporated. Taste the dip and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, sprinkle the top with fresh chopped chives if using, and serve at room temperature alongside potato chips or a selection of fresh crudités.

Notes

  • To soften cream cheese quickly, microwave it in a covered bowl for 20-30 seconds or let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing.
  • Deglazing the pan with water helps capture the flavorful browned bits from the onions, enriching the dip’s taste.
  • For a stronger onion flavor, caramelize the onions longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • This dip is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature and stir before serving.
  • Optional garnishing with chives adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American