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1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

4.9 from 71 reviews

This decadent Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip combines sweet, deeply caramelized onions with rich smoked Gouda cheese for a creamy, flavorful appetizer. Perfectly baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh chives, this dip is an irresistible treat for gatherings and parties, ready in just about an hour.

Ingredients

Scale

Dip Base:

  • 8 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Caramelized Onions:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions, salt, and black pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes until the onions are deeply golden brown and fully caramelized, developing a rich, sweet flavor.
  2. Preheat the Oven: While the onions finish cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
  3. Mix the Dip Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded smoked Gouda cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  4. Incorporate Caramelized Onions: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution without breaking the onions too much.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the combined mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform cooking.
  6. Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown, indicating it is thoroughly heated and melded.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top for added color and flavor. Serve warm with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping.

Notes

  • Caramelizing onions is the key to developing deep flavor, so be patient and cook them slowly over medium-low heat to avoid burning.
  • For extra smokiness, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the dip mixture.
  • This dip can be made ahead up to the caramelization step and refrigerated; combine and bake just before serving.
  • Serve with sturdy dippers like toasted baguette slices or crunchy vegetables to support the creamy texture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Keywords: Smoked Gouda Dip, Caramelized Onion Dip, Cheese Dip, Party Appetizer, Baked Dip, Gouda Cheese