Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Dip

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Creamy, savory, and loaded with rich flavor, this Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Dip is the party appetizer you didn’t know you needed. With deeply golden onions, nutty Gruyere cheese, and a luscious creamy base, it’s a warm and welcoming dish that’s just as satisfying for weeknight snacking as it is for holiday spreads.

Serve it with toasted baguette slices, crisp veggie sticks, or sturdy chips, and watch it disappear in minutes. Whether you’re hosting game night or contributing to a potluck, this dip is guaranteed to impress without much effort.

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What Kind of Onions Should I Use?

Sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are ideal here, thanks to their natural sugars which caramelize beautifully. Yellow onions also work great if you want a more robust flavor. The key is to slice them thinly and take your time—caramelizing is a slow dance, not a sprint.

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Ingredients for the Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Dip

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish

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How To Make the Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Dip

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in the balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine and Add Cheese

Fold the caramelized onions into the creamy base. Stir in the Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Transfer the mixture into a small baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until hot and bubbly with golden edges.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers.

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How to Serve and Store This Dip

Serve this dip piping hot straight from the oven for the ultimate cheesy experience. Pair it with crusty bread, kettle chips, crackers, or even roasted potato wedges.

Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Freezing isn’t recommended as the creamy texture may separate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dip a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different cheese?

You can swap Gruyere for Swiss, Fontina, or even sharp white cheddar. Each adds its own twist.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute that lightens things up while keeping it creamy.

How do I get the onions to caramelize properly?

Patience is key. Cook low and slow, resist the urge to crank the heat, and stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just choose gluten-free dippers!

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Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If this creamy Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Dip hits the spot, check out these other crave-worthy appetizers:

• Authentic 7-Layer Mexican Dip for a colorful and satisfying classic.
• Sausage Rolls Appetizer Recipe for a bite-sized flaky treat.
• Cheesy Pizza Bombs if you’re craving melty goodness in every bite.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a main dish that doubles as a dinner-party star.
• Candied Jalapenos to add a sweet heat alongside your dips.

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