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Creamy French Onion Dip Recipe Easy Homemade Party Appetizer

creamy French onion dip - featured image

This creamy French onion dip is made from scratch with caramelized onions, a rich and velvety base, and a handful of simple seasonings. It’s the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties, game nights, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large yellow onions, finely diced (about 2 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • Extra thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Potato chips, crackers, veggie sticks, or toasted baguette slices (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-low heat. Add diced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir well and cook, stirring every few minutes, for 25-30 minutes until onions are deep golden brown and sweet. Add a splash of water if onions stick.
  2. Stir in thyme leaves and minced garlic. Cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant. If using, add balsamic vinegar and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let onions cool to room temperature.
  3. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Add sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix until just combined.
  4. Fold cooled caramelized onions into the creamy mixture with a spatula. Stir gently until onions are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed.
  5. Transfer dip to a serving bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up.
  6. Garnish with chopped chives and extra thyme leaves. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature with chips, crackers, or veggies.

Notes

For best flavor, caramelize onions slowly and let them cool before mixing into the base. Make ahead for deeper flavor. Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version or vegan substitutes for dairy-free. Double-check Worcestershire sauce for gluten-free diets. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion dip, party appetizer, creamy dip, caramelized onions, homemade dip, snack, game day, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy recipe