This baked double cheese and sweet onion dip is guilt-free cheesy goodness! It’s creamy, cheesy, and has that lovely sweetness from the onions—perfect for snacking!
When I make this dip, I can’t resist serving it with crispy chips or fresh veggies. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time! Your guests will ask for more, and so will you! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Onions: These are key for the sweet flavor in the dip. You can also use yellow onions for a slightly sharper taste. If you ever need a substitute for a sweeter touch, try Vidalia onions!
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese—it’s a lower-fat version of cream cheese.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold taste, paired with mozzarella for creaminess. You can swap these for Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or even use a dairy-free cheese blend if you’re lactose intolerant.
Sour Cream: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for a similar texture with added protein.
How Do I Properly Caramelize Onions Without Burning Them?
Caramelizing onions can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right! The key is to keep the heat low and be patient. Onions should be cooked slowly to bring out their sweetness.
- Start with medium heat to melt the butter and oil together.
- Add the onions and stir often, allowing them to cook evenly.
- If they start sticking or look like they’re browning too fast, lower the heat and add a splash of water to help them along.
- Remember, it takes about 15-20 minutes to get that golden-brown color—don’t rush it!
Trust me, well-caramelized onions make a huge difference in the flavor of your dip!
Baked Double Cheese And Sweet Onion Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 2 large sweet onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to enhance sweetness)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crackers or sliced bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dip takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying it in about 35 minutes total. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your dip bakes evenly and gets wonderfully bubbly.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, combine the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped sweet onions and sprinkle in the optional sugar if you like. Cook while stirring occasionally until the onions become soft and golden brown—this will take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, take them off the heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and creamy. Use a whisk or a hand mixer to get it just right!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, stir in the caramelized onions along with the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
5. Add the Cheese:
Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This helps ensure that every bite is packed with cheesy goodness!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the mixture into a small oven-safe baking dish or ramekin, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an even bake.
7. Top with More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. This will create a deliciously gooey topping.
8. Bake the Dip:
Place the dip in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is nice and bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Garnish and Cool:
Once out of the oven, let the dip cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm alongside crackers or sliced bread for dipping. Everyone will love this cheesy, sweet, and savory dip!
Enjoy your delicious Baked Double Cheese And Sweet Onion Dip as the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla are ideal for their sweetness, you can substitute yellow onions if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that yellow onions will give a slightly sharper flavor.
How Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dip up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or heat it gently in the oven until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Dip?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like cooked bacon, spinach, or even different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to match any additional ingredients you include.