Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip
This Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip is such a crowd-pleaser! Creamy, rich, and full of buttery caramelized onions combined with crispy, smoky bacon bits make every bite a little celebration.…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
This Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip is such a crowd-pleaser! Creamy, rich, and full of buttery caramelized onions combined with crispy, smoky bacon bits make every bite a little celebration. It’s the kind of dip that’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in.
I love how the sweet, slow-cooked onions melt perfectly into the creamy base, while the bacon adds just the right amount of savory crunch. When I make this dip, I always find myself sneaking bites straight from the bowl before anyone else gets a chance. It’s simple but feels special every time.
My favorite way to serve this dip is with crunchy crackers or toasted baguette slices. Sometimes I even use it as a topping on baked potatoes or spread it on warm rolls. It’s a really versatile dip that everyone at the table seems to love, and it always disappears fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are best for caramelizing because they get sweet and tender with slow cooking. You can try red onions for a slightly different, richer flavor.
Bacon: I like thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and smoky taste. Turkey bacon works if you want a leaner option, though the flavor is milder.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and body. If you need a dairy-free version, try a cashew-based cream cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: These keep the dip smooth and tangy. Greek yogurt is a nice substitute if you’d like it lighter and a bit healthier.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharpness gives the dip a nice tang. If cheddar isn’t your favorite, Gouda or Monterey Jack are tasty alternatives.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds umami depth. If you don’t have it, a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can work too.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions for this Dip?
Caramelizing onions takes patience but is key for flavor. Here’s how I make it easy:
- Use a wide pan to spread the onions evenly.
- Cook on medium-low heat with butter or oil and a pinch of salt.
- Stir every 5 minutes to avoid burning and help even browning.
- Keep cooking for 30 to 40 minutes until the onions turn a deep golden brown and smell sweet.
- If they stick, add a splash of water or a little more oil and scrape the brown bits—they’re full of flavor!
Slow cooking is the secret to sweet, tender onions that make this dip shine. Don’t rush or increase the heat—it’ll ruin the flavor and texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for slowly caramelizing the onions evenly without burning.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps you stir the onions gently and scrape the pan well.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, and other ingredients smoothly.
- Baking dish or oven-safe casserole – to bake the dip until bubbly and golden on top.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, bacon, and chives easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for diced cooked pancetta or smoked sausage for a different smoky flavor.
- Use caramelized shallots instead of onions for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add an earthy touch.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle smoky heat.
How to Make Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or unsalted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 30-40 minutes to caramelize onions, and an additional 20-25 minutes to bake the dip. So overall, plan for roughly 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. This usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Once done, remove the pan from heat and set the onions aside to cool.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a separate pan, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they are nice and crispy. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess fat. When cool, chop the bacon into small pieces, reserving a few for garnishing the dip later.
3. Prepare the Dip Base:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything well until smooth and creamy.
4. Mix in Onions, Bacon, and Chives:
Gently fold in the caramelized onions, most of the chopped bacon (hold some back for garnish), and the chopped chives. Taste the mixture and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
5. Bake the Dip:
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish or small casserole. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is a lovely light brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle with the reserved bacon pieces and extra chopped chives for a fresh and colorful touch. Serve the dip warm with your favorite crackers or toasted baguette slices for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Onions for This Dip?
It’s best to use fresh onions for caramelizing because frozen onions contain moisture that can make the dip watery. If you only have frozen onions, thaw them completely and pat dry before caramelizing to reduce excess moisture.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed and garnish just before serving for the best freshness.
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon?
If you want a vegetarian version, try using smoked mushrooms or a smoky paprika seasoning to mimic bacon’s flavor. You can also omit it entirely and add extra caramelized onions or cheese.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.