Caramelized Onion Dip with Crackers

Name: Caramelized Onion Dip with Crackers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large white onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Assorted crackers; Fresh vegetable sticks (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I absolutely love making Caramelized Onion Dip with Crackers for gatherings and cozy nights in! This dip is rich and creamy, perfectly complementing crispy crackers. The depth of flavor comes from slowly caramelizing the onions, which brings out their sweetness. I found that using white onions works best, as they caramelize beautifully and provide a lovely base for the dip. Whether it’s an appetizer or a delightful snack, this dip is always a hit and will leave everyone reaching for more!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:54:42.328Z

When I first experimented with caramelized onion dip, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The key is to be patient while caramelizing the onions; lower heat allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in a deep, rich taste that elevates the dip significantly. I love to serve it warm, paired with an assortment of crunchy crackers.

Aside from the wonderful flavor, I’ve discovered that adding a touch of cream cheese really enhances the texture, making it wonderfully creamy and smooth. This dip not only satisfies cravings but also impresses guests with its complexity despite requiring minimal ingredients.

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        The deep, sweet flavor of perfectly caramelized onions
Creamy texture that perfectly balances the crunch of crackers
A crowd-pleaser that's incredibly easy to prepare

      

Understanding Caramelization

Caramelizing onions is an art that can make or break your dip. The process involves cooking the onions slowly at medium heat, allowing their natural sugars to develop that rich, deep flavor. Aim for a cooking time of around 30 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even caramelization and to prevent burning. If you notice the edges starting to darken too quickly, lower the heat. Perfectly caramelized onions should be golden brown, soft, and have a sweet aroma that fills your kitchen.

For even more depth in flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of sugar during the last few minutes of cooking. This will not only enhance the sweetness of the onions but also add a subtle acidity that balances the overall creaminess of the dip.

The Perfect Creamy Base

Combining sour cream and cream cheese is key to achieving the dip's luxurious texture. The tanginess from the sour cream complements the rich cream cheese, creating a perfect balance. Make sure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature; this ensures it blends smoothly without lumps. If you’re pressed for time, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat it.

For those looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream. It provides a similar tang and creaminess but with added protein. Just keep in mind that yogurt may alter the dip's flavor slightly, so taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful caramelized onion dip!

For the Dip

2 large white onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Assorted crackers
Fresh vegetable sticks (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your 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 for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.

Lower the heat if they start to burn.

Prepare the Dip

Once the onions are done, remove them from heat and let them cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, combine the caramelized onions, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Serve

Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve it warm with assorted crackers and fresh vegetable sticks if desired. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Enjoy your delicious homemade caramelized onion dip!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the dip for a spicy twist!

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving this dip warm for a more inviting experience. Transfer the dip to a small crockpot or warm it gently in the oven just before your guests arrive. Pair it with an assortment of crackers, including whole grain for added flavor, or buttery crackers for a richer taste. Veggie sticks like carrots and celery can also provide a fresh crunch that complements the dip well.

To elevate your presentation, arrange fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also introduce a fresh element that brightens the whole dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Caramelized Onion Dip is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, resulting in an even more flavorful dip. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or warm it gently to restore its creamy consistency.

If you have leftovers, you can freeze the dip for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure it stays smooth and creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just refrigerate it and let it come to room temperature before serving.

→ What other veggies can I serve with this dip?

Besides crackers, fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers pair nicely with this dip.

→ Can I use other types of onions?

While white onions are recommended for their sweet flavor, yellow onions or even shallots can also work well in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make this dip vegan?

To make a vegan version, use cashew cream instead of cream cheese and opt for a plant-based sour cream substitute.