This Jammy Hot Caramelized Onion Dip with Gruyere is the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer. Sweet, caramelized onions are combined with rich Gruyere cheese and creamy ingredients, then baked until bubbly and golden. Whether served with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies, this decadent dip is a guaranteed hit for parties or cozy gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors in every bite.
- Perfectly creamy and loaded with rich Gruyere cheese.
- A warm, comforting appetizer that’s easy to make.
- Ideal for holidays, game days, or casual snacking.
- Impresses guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Brown sugar
- Balsamic vinegar
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Gruyere cheese (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes, until the onions are soft and golden.
- Stir in brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until jammy and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dip Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in shredded Gruyere, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dip:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture. Transfer to an oven-safe baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake the Dip:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh thyme if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Options: Substitute Gruyere with Swiss, Fontina, or sharp white cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
- Meaty Twist: Stir in crumbled bacon or pancetta for added savory depth.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Use plant-based cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for a vegetarian version.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add finely chopped rosemary or thyme to the onions for an earthy aroma.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the dip may separate upon thawing.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
How do I prevent the onions from burning while caramelizing?
Cook the onions over medium or medium-low heat and stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
For the best flavor and texture, shred your cheese fresh. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that affect melting.
What can I serve with this dip?
Crusty bread, pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots are excellent choices.
Can I use a different type of onion?
Yellow onions are ideal, but white or sweet onions also work well. Avoid red onions as they may alter the flavor.
What’s the best way to get the dip golden on top?
If the dip isn’t golden after baking, broil it for 1–2 minutes to achieve a bubbly, browned top.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
What makes Gruyere the best choice for this dip?
Gruyere has a nutty, rich flavor and melts beautifully, making it perfect for warm dips.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free dippers.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding breadcrumbs, more shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Jammy Hot Caramelized Onion Dip with Gruyere is the epitome of indulgence and comfort. With its rich, savory-sweet flavor and creamy texture, it’s a show-stopping appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dip is the perfect centerpiece for your snack table. Serve it hot and watch it disappear!
Print
Jammy Hot Caramelized Onion Dip with Gruyere
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking & Stove‑Top
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and savory hot dip featuring deeply caramelized onions, melted Gruyère cheese, and a touch of sweetness for a crowd‑pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese, divided
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and salt; cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden, about 20 minutes.
- Stir in brown sugar and continue cooking until onions are deeply caramelized, another 10–15 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F). In a bowl, stir together caramelized onions, sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of the Gruyère. Season with pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining Gruyère.
- Bake until bubbling and golden, about 15–20 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve warm with crackers or toasted bread.
Notes
- You can prepare onions ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Gruyère can be swapped with Emmental or sharp white cheddar.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayo.
- Reheat leftover dip in oven or microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅛ of recipe (approximately ½ cup)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg