Dive into the creamy, smoky, and utterly indulgent world of our Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip. This warm, cheesy appetizer is perfect for cozy gatherings, game nights, or anytime you need a dish that wows the crowd. The caramelized onions bring a rich, sweet depth, while the crispy bacon and Gruyère add a savory punch you won’t forget.
This recipe holds a cherished spot in our home. My husband calls it “the dip of all dips,” and no get-together is complete without it. I’ll never forget the first time I served this at a family game night—it disappeared within minutes, with everyone asking for seconds and the recipe! Now, it’s a staple for any special occasion, and even my picky little ones can’t resist dipping veggies into its cheesy goodness.
Why This Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip?
- A Symphony of Flavors: Sweet caramelized onions meet smoky, crispy bacon, and nutty Gruyère cheese, creating a rich and balanced flavor profile.
- Creamy Base: Sour cream and mayo combine to form a luxurious, velvety texture.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Whether it’s a holiday, potluck, or casual hangout, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the spice level or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 4 strips of bacon (about 60 g / 0.13 lb)
- 2 large sweet onions (halved and thinly sliced, about 500 g / 1.1 lb)
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar (about 1.25 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (about 1.25 g)
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry (about 15 ml)
- 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (about 1.25 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (about 0.5 g)
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (about 100 g / 0.22 lb)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (about 120 g / 0.26 lb)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (about 115 g / 0.25 lb)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (about 1.25 g)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large nonstick skillet, fry the bacon until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to cool, then crumble into small pieces.
- Caramelize the Onions: Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt to the bacon drippings in the skillet. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium. Stir regularly, letting the onions cook until they reach a rich, golden-brown color—about 20 minutes. If they start to stick or burn, lower the heat to medium-low.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the dry sherry, cooking for an additional minute. Mix in the thyme and Tabasco, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Combine the Dip: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream and mayonnaise. Fold in the crumbled bacon, Gruyère cheese, caramelized onion mixture, and black pepper until well combined.
- Bake to Perfection: Spoon the mixture into a 2-cup baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and golden on top.
- Serve: Let the dip cool slightly before serving. Pair with crackers, fresh veggies, or crusty bread.
Notes:
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute Gruyère with sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese for a different flavor twist.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
- Spice it Up: Add more Tabasco or a pinch of cayenne if you like a bit more heat.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or even fresh celery sticks for a lighter option.
Indulge in this unforgettable Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip and watch it become a new favorite in your household!