1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

Introduction

This 1-hour smoked Gouda and caramelized onion dip is a flavorful crowd-pleaser that combines rich, smoky cheese with sweet, deeply caramelized onions. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory notes that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes until onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized.
2. Step 2: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine shredded smoked Gouda, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir until well blended.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of smoked and regular Gouda for a milder smoky flavor.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
• Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
• Caramelize onions in advance and refrigerate for up to 3 days to save time.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip in advance?

Yes, you can caramelize the onions and mix the dip ingredients ahead of time. Store the combined dip in the refrigerator and bake just before serving to keep the topping bubbly and fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have smoked Gouda?

Regular Gouda, cheddar, or a mild Fontina can be good substitutes. For a smoky flavor, add a small amount of smoked paprika or use smoked cheese alternatives available in your area.

1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 50 reviews

This Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip combines rich, smoky cheese with sweet, deeply caramelized onions for a decadent appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings. With a creamy base of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, this dip is baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh chives for a burst of flavor.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Caramelized Onions

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dip

• 8 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: Melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions along with salt and black pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized, developing a sweet and rich flavor.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the dip.
3. Mix the Cheese Base: In a large bowl, combine the shredded smoked Gouda cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir everything together thoroughly until you have a smooth, well-incorporated mixture.
4. Add Caramelized Onions: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dip.
5. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the combined mixture into a small baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for even cooking.
6. Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and lightly golden on top, signaling it’s heated through and perfect for serving.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped chives over the top to add a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color before serving warm with your choice of chips, crackers, or bread.

Notes

• Use medium-low heat to caramelize onions slowly for maximum flavor without burning.
• If pressed for time, caramelizing onions can be done ahead and refrigerated.
• Try serving with baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.

Keywords: Smoked Gouda dip, caramelized onion dip, baked cheese dip, party appetizer, easy cheese dip