Description
This classic French Onion Dip recipe features deeply caramelized onions blended into a creamy base of sour cream and mayonnaise, enhanced with Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and smoked paprika for a rich, savory flavor. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, it pairs wonderfully with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Onions
- 2 large yellow onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Dip Base
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped chives
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped onions along with salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook gently for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Dip Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk or stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine and Chill: Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the dip base, ensuring even distribution. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and develop fully.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle chopped chives on top as a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve the dip chilled alongside chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions slowly over low heat is key to developing deep, sweet flavors. Avoid rushing this step with higher heat to prevent burning.
- The dip can be made a day in advance and will taste even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator.
- For a smoky twist, don’t skip the optional smoked paprika, but it can be omitted to keep the flavor more traditional.
- Use full-fat sour cream and mayonnaise for the creamiest texture, but low-fat versions can be substituted for a lighter dip.
- Serve with fresh cut vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a healthier option.
