What I love most about this dip is how fresh and flavorful it is. The slowly caramelized onions bring out a deep sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy sour cream and herbs. It’s simple, but the flavor is next-level. I can prep it ahead of time, and the taste actually improves as it sits. It’s also super versatile — I serve it with chips, veggie sticks, crackers, or even use it as a spread on sandwiches and burgers.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
2 medium yellow onions, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: a splash of Worcestershire sauce for richer flavor
Directions
Caramelize the onions I heat the butter or oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat, then add the sliced onions. After stirring them for a couple of minutes, I reduce the heat to low and let them cook slowly.
Keep caramelizing I stir every few minutes to let the onions develop that golden color. If they start to stick, I add a splash of water to loosen them from the bottom. This process takes time — about 45 minutes — but it’s what gives the dip its signature flavor.
Add garlic and cool Once the onions are deeply caramelized, I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then I transfer the onions to a bowl and refrigerate until they’re completely cooled. I make sure not to skip this part — warm onions will melt the dip and change the texture.
Chop and mix Once cooled, I roughly chop the onions into smaller pieces. In a large bowl, I combine the onions with sour cream, mayonnaise, chives, parsley, salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce if I’m using it. I mix everything together until smooth and creamy.
Chill and serve I chill the dip for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend. Right before serving, I like to sprinkle on a few extra herbs for a fresh look.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 3 cups of dip, enough for 8 servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to caramelize the onions, with a total time of about 55 minutes. I usually make it ahead to give the flavors time to develop even more in the fridge.
Variations
Here are a few fun ways I like to mix things up:
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Add cream cheese for an extra-rich dip with more body.
Stir in finely grated Parmesan for a cheesy, umami boost.
Try shallots instead of onions for a slightly different flavor profile.
Spice it up with a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat.
storage/reheating
I store the dip in an airtight container in the fridge, and it stays fresh for up to a week. Since it’s a cold dip, I never reheat it. If it thickens in the fridge, I just give it a stir before serving. It’s great to make ahead — in fact, I think it tastes even better the next day.
FAQs
How do I get perfect caramelized onions?
The secret is low and slow cooking. I resist the urge to turn up the heat. Stirring every few minutes and adding a splash of water if they stick helps them caramelize evenly without burning.
Can I make this dip a day in advance?
Absolutely. I often make it the night before a party. The flavors meld and intensify after sitting for several hours in the fridge.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but I always double-check labels, especially for Worcestershire sauce, to be safe.
Can I freeze French onion dip?
I don’t recommend freezing it — the texture tends to break once thawed, and it won’t be as creamy. It’s best fresh or stored in the fridge for up to a week.
What should I serve with this dip?
I love it with kettle-cooked potato chips, sliced cucumbers, carrots, celery, or toasted baguette slices. It also works great as a spread for sandwiches or burgers.
Conclusion
This French Onion Dip is one of those recipes that proves how a few simple ingredients can turn into something amazing. With its rich, caramelized flavor and creamy texture, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that I always feel good about making from scratch. Whether I’m hosting a party or just craving a savory snack, this dip is a guaranteed win every time.
