1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip is a creamy, flavorful treat perfect for any gathering. With rich smoked cheese and sweet, deeply caramelized onions, it’s a comforting appetizer you can prepare in about an hour.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the shredded smoked Gouda, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
7. Step 7: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of smoked and regular Gouda for a milder smoky flavor.
• Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Serve with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.
• Caramelize the onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness fully.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture and caramelize the onions in advance. Store the components separately and assemble just before baking for best results.

What can I substitute for smoked Gouda?

If you can’t find smoked Gouda, try using smoked cheddar or regular Gouda with a splash of liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor.

1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 139 reviews

This smoky and savory dip combines rich smoked Gouda cheese with sweet caramelized onions for an irresistible appetizer. Slow-cooked onions develop deep flavor and sweetness, blended with cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for a smooth, creamy texture. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dip is perfect for parties or cozy gatherings, garnished with fresh chives for a bright finish.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Onions

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

Cheese and Cream

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

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 onions along with salt and black pepper, and cook while stirring occasionally for 30-40 minutes until the onions become deeply golden brown and caramelized.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip later.
3. Mix cheese base: In a large bowl, combine the shredded smoked Gouda, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Add caramelized onions: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution of flavor without breaking up the onions too much.
5. Transfer to baking dish: Spoon the combined mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake the dip: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly throughout and lightly golden on top.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top for a fresh, colorful garnish before serving warm with your choice of crackers, bread, or veggies.

Notes

• For best caramelization, cook onions slowly over medium-low heat—rushing this step can cause burning instead of soft caramelizing.
• Use smoked Gouda for its distinct smoky flavor, but you may substitute with regular Gouda or a mild cheddar if desired.
• This dip can be prepared ahead through step 4 and refrigerated until baking time.
• Serve warm for optimal flavor and texture, and accompany with toasted baguette slices or sturdy crackers.
• Leftovers store well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently in the oven.

Keywords: smoked gouda dip, caramelized onion dip, cheesy dip, party appetizer, baked dip, easy appetizer