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1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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