Description
This Tennessee Onion Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer featuring caramelized sweet onions mixed with a blend of mayonnaise, cream cheese, and flavorful spices. Topped with cheddar and smoked gouda cheese and baked until bubbly, it’s perfect for serving with crackers, crostini, or bread at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Onion Base
- 2 large sweet onions, chopped (Vidalia recommended)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Dip Mixture
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Onions: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sweet onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and tender, approximately 15 minutes. This slow cooking process brings out the natural sweetness of the onions.
- Mix the Dip Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat once the onions are caramelized. Add 1 cup of mayonnaise, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese to the onions. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Bake the Dip: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. This baking helps blend the flavors and heats the dip through perfectly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve the dip warm with crackers, crostini, or slices of fresh bread for dipping and enjoy.
Notes
- Use Vidalia or other sweet onions for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth dip consistency.
- The smoked gouda adds a subtle smoky depth, but you can substitute with another smoked cheese if preferred.
- Serve this dip warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
- This dip can be prepared in advance and baked before serving to save time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Onion dip, Tennessee onion dip, baked onion dip, appetizer, party dip, creamy dip, cheesy dip
