Caramelized Onion and Artichoke Dip

Name: Caramelized Onion and Artichoke Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I absolutely love this Caramelized Onion and Artichoke Dip! The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and the earthy taste of artichokes creates a rich, savory flavor that's hard to resist. When entertaining friends or family, this dip never fails to impress, and it’s super easy to make ahead of time. I often serve it warm with pita chips or fresh vegetables, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. Every bite is creamy and flavorful, and I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:30:43.038Z

This dip holds a special place in my heart because I remember the first time I made it for a game night with friends. As the aroma of caramelizing onions filled the kitchen, everyone eagerly gathered around, asking what was cooking. The anticipation made it all the more rewarding once we finally dug in!

I’ve learned over time that the key to achieving the perfect creamy texture is to let the dip bake just long enough. The cheese should melt beautifully without becoming overly greasy. Serve it immediately for the best experience, and watch it disappear.

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        The sweet caramelized onions create a unique flavor profile.
Creamy and cheesy texture that will satisfy any craving.
Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights in.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in this dip are the sweet caramelized onions and artichoke hearts. The onions add a depth of flavor that enhances the creamy texture of the dip, while artichokes contribute an earthy richness. When selecting artichokes, canned or jarred varieties work well, but ensure they're well-drained to prevent excess moisture that could make the dip runny. Fresh artichokes can also be used; just steam and chop them before adding.

Cream cheese and sour cream are critical for creating the dip's delightful creaminess. Using full-fat cream cheese ensures a smooth texture, while sour cream adds tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the caramelized onions. You can swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt if you're looking to lower the calories without sacrificing that creamy profile. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt may obviously be tangier.

Perfecting the Caramelization

Caramelizing onions is a technique that requires patience but yields incredible flavor. Start with medium heat to allow the natural sugars in the onions to develop over time. Stir frequently for uniform browning and to prevent burning. If you find the onions sticking, you can add a splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan, picking up those flavorful brown bits from the bottom. Perfectly caramelized onions will be soft, sticky, and a deep golden color.

For additional depth, consider adding a sprinkle of sugar or balsamic vinegar to the onions midway through cooking. This minor adjustement enhances the caramelization process and adds a hint of sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the other savory ingredients in the dip. Aim for approximately 20-25 minutes for the ideal caramelized texture.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Caramelized Onion and Artichoke Dip is best enjoyed warm; the flavors meld beautifully when it's freshly baked. For a serving suggestion, I like to pair it with pita chips, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh vegetable sticks. It’s versatile enough to complement various dippers, so feel free to get creative! Sometimes, I even adorn it with a sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil before baking for an added gourmet touch.

If you want to prepare this dip ahead of time, simply assemble the dip mixture and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. You can also freeze portions for a quick appetizer; just make sure to keep it in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and simply bake as directed—this will save time during busy gatherings while still delivering that fresh, cheesy experience.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for easy access.

Ingredients

2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for easy mixing.

Instructions

Let’s get started on this delicious dip!

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.

Mix the Dip Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and the caramelized onions. Mix until well combined.

Bake the Dip

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is hot and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dippers!

Enjoy your delicious dip!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider stirring in some chopped fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes before baking. You can also use different cheese varieties according to your preference.

Troubleshooting

If your dip turns out grainy or curdled, it could be due to premature heating or overmixing the cheese component. To avoid this, allow the cream cheese to soften completely at room temperature and mix on low speed until smooth. Gradually incorporate the other ingredients to keep the mixture creamy. If the dip seems too thick, a splash of milk or cream can help loosen it without compromising its flavor.

Should you find yourself with a dip that lacks depth, consider a pinch of salt or a dash of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Each element in the dip plays a vital role, and balancing them just right can transform average to extraordinary.

Variations

Feel free to switch up the cheeses in your dip. Instead of mozzarella, you might try fontina for a nuttier flavor or gouda for a smokier touch. Each variation will create a unique taste, allowing the dip to evolve based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Adding roasted garlic can also infuse additional aromatic notes.

Vegetarian or vegan options are easy to achieve here! Replace the cream cheese and sour cream with cashew cream or a store-bought vegan alternative, ensuring a plant-based dip that retains its delightful flavor. Incorporating fresh herbs, like basil or dill, can also give a refreshing accent to the dip—especially if you opt for the vegan route.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of artichoke hearts?

If you don't have artichoke hearts, you can substitute them with chopped spinach or even roasted red peppers.

→ How can I make it spicy?

To add some heat, mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños before baking.

→ Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Yes! You can substitute lower-fat cream cheese and sour cream, but keep in mind that the dip may be less creamy.