Caramelized Onion Dip Sour Cream (Printable)

Savory blend of caramelized onions, tangy sour cream, and fresh chives for a party favorite.

# What you'll need:

→ Onions

01 - 2 large yellow onions, finely diced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
05 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - ½ teaspoon sugar

→ Dip Base

07 - 1½ cups sour cream, full-fat
08 - ½ cup mayonnaise
09 - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
10 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - ½ teaspoon onion powder

→ Fresh Herbs

12 - ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives
13 - 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

# Method:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add diced onions, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply golden and caramelized, approximately 30 to 35 minutes. If onions brown too quickly, reduce heat. Allow to cool to room temperature.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well combined.
03 - Fold the cooled caramelized onions, chives, and parsley into the dip base mixture. Mix well to ensure even distribution of all components.
04 - Taste the dip and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and develop.
05 - Remove from refrigeration and serve chilled, garnished with extra chives. Accompany with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The slow caramelization creates a natural sweetness that makes people pause mid-bite wondering what makes it taste so right.
  • It's the kind of dip that works equally well at casual game nights or when you're trying to impress someone's parents.
  • You can make it a day ahead, which means less stress and actually better flavor when guests arrive.
02 -
  • Don't skip the cooling step for caramelized onions—I learned this the hard way when warm onions broke my entire dip into an oily mess.
  • Low heat and patience are the only real secrets; there's no shortcut to true caramelization, and rushing it creates bitter, burnt onions instead of sweet, golden ones.
03 -
  • For a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess, swap half the sour cream for Greek yogurt and let it chill longer so flavors have time to develop.
  • A splash of crispy fried onions stirred in just before serving adds a textural surprise that makes people pause and ask what they're tasting.
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