Description
Indulge in the ultimate party appetizer with this creamy Hot Caramelized Onion Dip with Bacon and Gruyere. A savory, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List (With Measurements)
To create this luscious dip, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp sugar (optional, enhances caramelization)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a harmony of flavors that’s both indulgent and balanced.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a heavy-bottom skillet over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the onions in butter.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, for 25–30 minutes.
- Halfway through cooking, sprinkle 2 tsp of sugar if desired, to enhance the onions’ natural sweetness.
- When the onions are golden brown and soft, remove them from the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a separate skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Step 3: Combine the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth.
- Add shredded Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, and half of the cooked bacon. Fold gently to combine.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the dip is golden and bubbling.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh thyme for a touch of color and a subtle herbal note.
- Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks, celery, or bell peppers.
Notes
Notes for a Seamless Cooking Experience
- Prep Ahead:
- You can caramelize the onions and cook the bacon up to two days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to save time on the day of preparation.
- Choose the Right Dish:
- Use a shallow baking dish to ensure even baking and a golden, bubbling top. A ceramic or cast-iron dish works well for retaining heat.
- Season Wisely:
- Bacon and Gruyere are naturally salty, so taste the mixture before adding additional salt. Adjust seasonings gradually to avoid over-salting.
- Serve Fresh:
- This dip is best enjoyed straight out of the oven. Plan to serve it as soon as it’s baked to preserve the perfect consistency and flavor.