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Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Dip Recipe

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4.4 from 6 reviews

Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Dip is a rich and savory appetizer blending sweet golden caramelized onions with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, and nutty Gruyere cheese. Baked until bubbling and topped with extra cheese and fresh thyme, this dip is a crowd-pleaser perfect for parties, holidays, or casual gatherings. Simple to make and prep ahead, this classic American-French fusion brings gourmet flavor with minimal effort.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, French