Make this rich, savory caramelized onion dip inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s style. This easy homemade recipe features slow-cooked sweet onions baked until warm and bubbly, perfect as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer for game days or gatherings.
Author:ariathompson
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:60 min
Total Time:75 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir to coat.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook the onions slowly, stirring every 5 to 10 minutes, for 40 to 50 minutes until they are deeply golden brown and sweet. Do not rush this step; slow caramelization builds the flavor.
Add the minced garlic and thyme to the onions and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the onions cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
Fold the cooled caramelized onions and garlic mixture into the cream cheese base. Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Transfer the dip mixture to a small, oven-safe baking dish. If using, sprinkle the Gruyère cheese over the top.
Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the top is lightly golden.
Serve the warm onion dip immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
For a quicker version, you can caramelize the onions in a slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours.
This dip tastes best when the onions are cooked until they are dark brown, which concentrates their natural sweetness.
If you prefer a cold dip, skip the baking step and chill the mixture for at least 2 hours before serving.