Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Dip Base
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded (reserve ½ cup for topping)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for topping)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 35 minutes until the onions become golden brown, soft, and jammy in texture.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring it is fragrant but not burnt. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Prepare the dip base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the sour cream (or mayonnaise). Mix until smooth and creamy using a spatula or electric mixer.
- Combine ingredients: Fold the caramelized onion mixture into the creamy base along with 1½ cups of shredded Gruyere cheese, black pepper, and fresh thyme. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Transfer and top: Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and evenly sprinkle the reserved ½ cup Gruyere cheese and optional grated Parmesan cheese on top to create a tasty crust.
- Bake the dip: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dip for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until it is hot, bubbly, and the cheese topping is melted and lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the dip from the oven, garnish with additional fresh thyme, and serve warm with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping. Enjoy your delicious caramelized onion and Gruyere dip!
Notes
- Using a wide skillet helps onions cook evenly and caramelize properly.
- If short on time, you can use a higher heat but must watch closely to avoid burning onions.
- May substitute Gruyere with Swiss or a mild cheddar, but Gruyere provides the distinctive nutty flavor.
- Prep the caramelized onions up to two days in advance and refrigerate for easy assembly later.
- This dip can be made ahead and reheated gently in the oven.
- Serve with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French