This dip is rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavor from the sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyere cheese. It’s perfect for a party or a cozy night in.
Yields: Approximately 2 cups Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 50-60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 8 ounces Gruyere cheese, grated (about 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread, crackers, or apple slices for serving
Instructions:
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir to coat.
- Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for 40-50 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown and very tender. If they start to stick, add a tablespoon of water and scrape up any browned bits. Don’t rush this step – slow cooking is key to developing their sweet flavor.
- Combine the Dip Ingredients: Once the onions are caramelized, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly (about 5-10 minutes).
- In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and grated Gruyere cheese. Add the cooled caramelized onions and stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature with crusty bread, your favorite crackers, or even crisp apple slices.
Tips for Success:
- Patience is Key: Caramelizing onions takes time. Don’t increase the heat too much, or they will burn rather than sweeten.
- Make Ahead: You can caramelize the onions a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the entire dip ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Warm it Up: If you prefer a warm dip, you can gently heat the assembled dip in a microwave-safe bowl for a minute or two, stirring halfway through, or bake it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
- Cheese Variations: While Gruyere is classic, you could also experiment with other good melting cheeses like Emmental, Comté, or even a sharp white cheddar.
Enjoy your delicious dip!