French Onion Dip delivers rich, savory flavor with a smooth, creamy texture that never goes out of style. Slowly caramelized onions blend into a tangy, velvety base for a dip that feels nostalgic and irresistible. This homemade version tastes far better than store-bought and uses simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses real caramelized onions for deep flavor
- Tastes richer and fresher than packaged dip
- Comes together with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for parties, holidays, and snack boards
- Pairs with chips, veggies, or crackers
Ingredients

Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Dip Base
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Optional Garnish
- Chopped chives or green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook onions slowly, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
- Remove onions from heat and let them cool completely.
- In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Fold cooled caramelized onions into the dip.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with chives if desired and serve chilled.
Tips & Variations
- Cook onions low and slow for best flavor
- Use Greek yogurt for a lighter dip
- Add Worcestershire sauce for deeper savory notes
- Blend half the onions for a smoother texture
- Chill longer for more developed flavor
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Stir before serving to refresh texture
- Avoid freezing due to dairy separation
- Make one day ahead for best flavor
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve with ridged potato chips
- Pair with fresh vegetables like carrots and celery
- Add to a party appetizer board
- Use as a spread for burgers or sandwiches
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes French Onion Dip taste better homemade?
Homemade French Onion Dip uses real caramelized onions instead of dried seasoning. Slow cooking brings out natural sweetness and creates a richer, more balanced flavor.
Can I use store-bought caramelized onions?
You can, but fresh homemade onions give better texture and flavor. Store-bought versions often lack depth and sweetness.
How long should French Onion Dip chill?
Chilling for at least one hour helps flavors blend. Overnight chilling creates an even deeper onion flavor.
Can I make this dip lighter?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or reduce mayonnaise. The dip stays creamy while lowering fat content.
Ready to Make It?
French Onion Dip proves that classic recipes never fade. This homemade version delivers bold flavor with minimal effort and fits every gathering. Save it now and keep a timeless favorite ready for any occasion.
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French Onion Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Onion Dip combines creamy sour cream and mayonnaise with deeply caramelized onions.
Ingredients
Butter
Yellow onions
Sour cream
Mayonnaise
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper
Instructions
1. Caramelize onions slowly
2. Cool onions completely
3. Mix sour cream and mayonnaise
4. Add seasonings
5. Fold in onions
6. Chill before serving
Notes
Chill for best flavor.
Stir before serving.
Serve with chips or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg