Description
A cozy, crowd-pleasing fall appetizer featuring deeply caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère cheese, baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for gatherings, bonfires, or movie nights, this dip is creamy, savory, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 1 lb)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- 6 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Chopped chives or parsley (for garnish)
- Extra Gruyère, shredded (for topping)
- Crusty baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add sliced onions and salt. Stir to coat and spread evenly.
- Cook slowly, stirring every 3-5 minutes. After 10 minutes, onions will be soft and translucent.
- Continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are deep golden brown and jammy. Add a splash of water if they start to stick.
- Add minced garlic and thyme during the last 5 minutes, stirring well.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded Gruyère, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and Parmesan (if using). Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fold caramelized onions into the cheese mixture. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
- Transfer dip to a 1-quart oven-safe dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle extra Gruyère over it.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for garnish.
- Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or veggie sticks.
Notes
For best flavor, caramelize onions low and slow. Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded. You can caramelize onions ahead and refrigerate. Substitute Gruyère with Swiss or sharp white cheddar if needed. For gluten-free, serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies. Dip can be made ahead and baked before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 220
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
Keywords: caramelized onion dip, Gruyère dip, fall appetizer, party dip, cheese dip, easy dip recipe, comfort food, oven baked dip, holiday appetizer