1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
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.
- Author: Sana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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.
- Preheat the Oven: While the onions finish cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- 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.
- Incorporate Caramelized Onions: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution without breaking the onions too much.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the combined mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform cooking.
- 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.
- 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