French Onion Dip From Scratch

This homemade French onion dip is the perfect party snack that’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Made with caramelized onions, sour cream, and mayonnaise, this version beats any onion dip made with a soup mix. Serve it with crunchy potato chips for an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets this French onion dip apart is the combination of sweet caramelized onions with creamy sour cream and mayo. It’s easy to make and doesn’t rely on pre-made seasoning packets. The caramelization process infuses the onions with deep, rich flavors, making the dip so much more flavorful than the typical store-bought version. It’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a simple snack to enjoy with friends and family.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 ½ cups chopped onion

• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.

3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the onions cool for 5 to 10 minutes.

4. In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, white pepper, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.

5. Once the onions have cooled, stir them into the sour cream mixture.

6. For the best flavor, cover the dip and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes (plus 2 hours of refrigeration)

Variations

• Add Fresh Herbs: For an added burst of flavor, mix in some fresh chives or parsley after the dip has chilled.

• Greek Yogurt Swap: Substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dip that still retains creaminess.

• Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to give the dip some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: While French onion dip is typically served cold, you can gently reheat it over low heat if you prefer a warm dip. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-sliced onions for this recipe?

Using pre-sliced onions may save you time, but chopping your own onions helps achieve the perfect texture and ensures better caramelization.

2. Can I make the dip ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s recommended to refrigerate the dip for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully.

3. Can I use a different type of onion?

While yellow onions are typically used for caramelization, you can also try red onions or sweet onions for a different flavor profile.

4. How do I get the onions to caramelize properly?

Caramelization takes time. Be sure to cook the onions over medium heat and stir frequently. Patience is key!

5. Can I use a light version of sour cream or mayonnaise?

Yes, feel free to use light sour cream or mayo for a lighter version of the dip. However, this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

6. Can I freeze French onion dip?

Freezing is not recommended because the dip may separate once thawed. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it fresh.

7. How long does the dip last in the fridge?

The dip will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

8. What can I serve this dip with besides potato chips?

You can serve it with raw veggies like carrots, celery, or cucumber, or with crackers and pita chips.

9. Is there a way to make this dip vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives such as vegan sour cream and mayo for a vegan-friendly dip.

10. Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and follow the same directions to make a bigger batch for your party or gathering.

Conclusion

This French onion dip from scratch is an easy, delicious, and flavorful dip that beats any store-bought version. The combination of caramelized onions, sour cream, and mayo makes for a rich, creamy dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a snack, this homemade dip will quickly become a favorite.