Cheese and Onion Dip – Warm, Creamy, Crowd-Pleasing

This Cheese and Onion Dip recipe is everything a comfort dip should be: warm, creamy, and loaded with caramelized onion flavor. It’s the kind of irresistible dish that turns any casual gathering into a celebration.

With golden, bubbly cheese and soft, sweet onions, it’s a go-to favorite for parties, potlucks, and game nights. If you love rich, savory appetizers, you might also enjoy our Gratinated Portobello Mushrooms, another crowd-pleasing favorite that’s packed with bold, comforting flavors.

Spread it, scoop it, or spoon it straight from the dish — it’s simple to make and always gets devoured. And if you’re planning a full party spread, our Pickled Mushrooms offer a bright, tangy contrast to balance the richness.

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✅ Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Easy

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🧾 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
• 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) olive oil
• ½ teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• ¼ teaspoon (1g) black pepper
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
• ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise
• 1½ cups (170g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. In a skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions, salt, and pepper. Cook slowly for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and soft.
3. Stir in balsamic vinegar (or Worcestershire) and cook 1 minute more. Let cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
5. Stir in the caramelized onions, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
8. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or toasted baguette slices.

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📌 Notes

• Caramelizing onions slowly is key to depth of flavor — don’t rush it.
• You can prep this dip a day ahead and bake just before serving.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like heat.

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🔄 Variations & Add-ons

• Use shredded cheddar instead of mozzarella for a sharper bite.
• Add chopped green onions or chives for a fresh twist.
• Stir in 1–2 strips of cooked bacon or pancetta for extra flavor.

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🥄 Estimated Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 5g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 6g

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🌍 The Story Behind Cheese & Onion Dip

Cheese and onion is a classic combination that appears in comfort dishes across many cultures — from British pasties to American casseroles.

This baked dip version became popular in the 1970s and ’80s in the U.S., especially as an easy make-ahead party food.

Its creamy texture and savory profile make it a timeless hit on any appetizer table.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, buttery crackers, or kettle chips.

It also pairs well with fresh veggie sticks like celery, cucumber, or bell pepper strips.

Keep warm in a small slow cooker or reheat gently in the oven if needed.

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❓ FAQs

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes — assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I serve it cold?
Technically yes, but it’s best hot — that’s when the cheese is perfectly melty.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s not ideal — the texture of dairy changes after freezing.

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✨ Final Thoughts

This Cheese and Onion Dip delivers classic comfort in every bite — creamy, cheesy, and rich with golden onions.

Make it once, and it’ll become your go-to crowd-pleaser for years to come.