If you’ve never tasted Homemade French Onion Dip, you don’t know what you’re missing. Making caramelized onions from scratch is easier than you think. The rich depth of flavor is a taste sensation that will put those store-bought varieties to shame.
Sure, you could buy a packet of seasoning from your local grocery store, but it won’t stand up against the amazing flavor of our French onion dip recipe. From its irresistible aroma to its creamy texture, this beloved dip is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.
French onion dip is a classic party favorite. Its creamy texture and savory profile make it perfect for dipping chips or fresh veggies. Our caramelized onion will make a delicious addition to game days, backyard barbecues, and family get-togethers.
If you enjoy making your own homemade dips, make sure to check out our roasted eggplant dip and crack dip recipes. They are OMG delicious!
Ingredients to make French Onion Dip
Let’s start by gathering the ingredients we need to make my Homemade French Onion Dip recipe. In Chef Speak, this is called the Mise en Place, which translates into Everything in its Place.
Not only does setting your ingredients up ahead of time speed the cooking process, but it also helps ensure you have everything you need to make the dish.
What type of onions should I use?
Vidalia onions are my first choice but any sweet onion can be used. You can also use white onions, yellow onions, or red onions to make the dip, but sweet onions are less harsh and will create a more balanced onion flavor.
Can I make substitutions?
Yes, you can. Plain Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream to make this classic French onion dip. You can also use mayonnaise instead of cream cheese, although the flavor profile will be different.
The onions can be sauteed with olive oil instead of butter, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can be added for additional flavor.
*Although you can use French onion soup mix, or substitute garlic powder and onion powder to make this recipe, the flavor will pale in comparison to our caramelized onion dip.
How to make French Onion Dip
Peel the outer layers off the onions, then slice them down into ¼-inch slices.
*For diced onions, chop the onions after slicing them
- Add the onions to a large bowl and season with sea salt. Set the onions aside and marinate for 60 minutes at room temperature.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. When the pan is hot, add the butter and olive oil.
- When the butter has melted, add the onions and the macerating liquid to the pan.
- Let the onions cook, stirring frequently for 20-25 minutes
- When the onions are a deep golden brown color, pour the vegetable stock into the mixture. Stir the onions around, making sure to incorporate all of the brown crunchy bits from the frying pan. The crunchy bits will add flavor to the onions.
*Beef stock, chicken stock, wine (white or red), or water can be used instead of vegetable stock. - When the liquid has been absorbed remove the pan from the heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sauteed onions from the pan.
Let the onions cool for 10 minutes before mixing them with the dip ingredients.
- Add the sour cream and cream cheese to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix with a hand mixer or stand mixer until mostly smooth.
- Add the cooled caramelized onions to the sour cream mixture.
- Fold the onions into the mixture with a rubber spatula.
- Add the minced garlic, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice to the mixture. and mix with a hand mixer or stand mixer until completely smooth.
- Cover with cling wrap and refrigerator for at least 60 minutes for the flavors to combine.
*Reserve a small amount of the caramelized onions to garnish the dip.
After one bite, you’ll agree that this is the best French onion dip you have ever made.
Any leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container (or well-covered with plastic wrap) and can be stored for up to 5 days.
Recipe FAQ’s
Yes, you should. Refrigerate the dip for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to come together. If you have time, allowing it to sit overnight is even better.
You can serve it with potato chips, pretzels, pita chips, fresh veggies, melba toast, tortilla chips, crackers, or any of your favorite dippers.
No, it shouldn’t be frozen. Freezing it can affect the texture of the dip, after thawing and may separate.
Elizabeth
This dish is delicious! Perfect for a summer bbq we just had – everyone loved it!
Bernice
This. dip. was. FABULOUS! Seriously, I put the bowl down to watch an UFL football game yesterday and didn’t stop dipping until it was gone. This is a keeper!
Tina
My whole family loved this french onion dip recipe! Will make it again soon.
Katie
This french onion dip recipe was so delicious! Can’t wait to make it again.
Ashley
I absolutely LOVE French onion dip, and this recipe was amazing! Being a Georgia girl, I like to use Vidalia onions, and of course, serving this with Fritos or Ruffles is a must. Great recipe!