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Homemade Sour Cream and Onion Dip: Easy Recipe for the Best Party Dip

Forget those store-bought spice packets! This recipe for Homemade Sour Cream and Onion Dip is quick, fresh, and only requires six ingredients. The key to this incredible dip is the real caramelized onions, transforming it into a crowd-pleaser that will elevate any snack occasion!

Homemade sour cream and onion dip with fresh chives and black pepper, served with potato chips. — Indulge in this creamy homemade dip, perfect for parties or a cozy night in. This irresistible dip is made with caramelized onions and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients
How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Dip (French Onion Dip)
Kelly’s Recipe Tips
How to Caramelize Onions Like a Pro
FAQs
More Dips and Party Appetizers You’ll Love
Homemade Sour Cream and Onion Dip Recipe

There are few things as rewarding in the kitchen as recreating a store-bought classic from scratch. While some items might be better bought, sour cream and onion dip (also known as French onion dip or caramelized onion dip) is undoubtedly better when homemade. The minimal effort is completely worth it!

This classic soup mix-turned-dip is reimagined with just six simple ingredients, with slowly caramelized onions taking center stage, providing the bulk of the fresh, rich flavor.

The best part is that this homemade sour cream and onion dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste before you begin dipping chips (try it with homemade barbecue potato chips!), vegetables, or even enjoying it straight from the spoon!

Ingredients for the Best Sour Cream and Onion Dip

You might be surprised by one ingredient on this list…

Ingredients for homemade French onion dip, including onions, vegetable oil, garlic powder, soy sauce, sour cream, and sugar. — See the ingredients needed to create this delicious homemade dip.

Caramelized onions: These are the star! Through the caramelization process, the onions bring a sweet and savory depth of flavor to the dip. Use white or yellow onions. For a time-saving tip: make them in advance! Caramelized onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Sour cream: This provides the creamy and tangy base of the dip. Full-fat sour cream is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Soy sauce: This is the secret ingredient! It adds the perfect amount of salty, rich flavor to balance the sweetness of the caramelized onions. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt level.
Garlic powder: This provides a subtle yet essential hint of savory garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dip.
Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps the onions caramelize properly.
Vegetable Oil: Needed for caramelizing the onions.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to Make the Best Homemade Sour Cream and Onion Dip (French Onion Dip)

Making this homemade French onion dip involves just two simple steps: caramelizing the onions and mixing together the sour cream base. It’s that easy! However, achieving sweet, caramelized onion perfection requires a little bit of time and patience. You’ll want the onions to reach a deep golden brown color, which takes at least 30 minutes.

Caramelized onions cooking in a skillet. — The key to this dip is perfectly caramelized onions.

Once the onions are caramelized, let them cool. Then, add the cooled caramelized onions to a bowl with the sour cream, soy sauce, garlic powder, and a dash of pepper. Mix everything together and serve immediately or stash it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors of this dip only get better the longer it chills!

Kelly’s Note: Make sure the onions are cooled before mixing, or you risk the sour cream curdling.

Mixing ingredients for French onion dip in a glass bowl. — Simple ingredients combine for an amazing dip.

Kelly’s Recipe Tips for Perfect Sour Cream and Onion Dip

Caramelization is Key: Don’t rush the caramelization process! It’s the most important step to get the best flavor.
Chill for Best Flavor: Chill the dip in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or even better, overnight) before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Adjust to Taste: Taste the dip and adjust the amount of soy sauce, garlic powder, or pepper according to your preferences.
Make Extra Caramelized Onions: Double the amount of onions you caramelize and freeze the extra for use in other dishes, such as French onion mac and cheese, pizza, or cheesy tomato tart.
Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Caramelize Onions Like a Pro

Before you start making this French onion dip, here are a few tips for caramelizing onions like a pro:

Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This will help distribute heat evenly and prevent the onions from burning.
Low and Slow: Caramelizing onions takes time. Cook them over medium-low heat to allow them to slowly release their sugars and develop a rich, sweet flavor.
Stir Occasionally: Stir the onions occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan and to ensure even browning.
Deglaze the Pan: If the pan gets too dry or the onions start to stick, deglaze the pan by adding a tablespoon of water, broth, or wine. Scrape up the flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra deliciousness.
Watch for Color Change: As the onions cook, they’ll gradually turn golden brown. This is a sign that the natural sugars are caramelizing.
Go for Deep Golden Brown: Patience is key! Keep cooking until the onions reach a deep golden brown color. The longer you cook them, the sweeter and richer the caramelized flavor will be.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sour Cream and Onion Dip

What chips go well with French onion dip?

Crinkle-cut potato chips are a classic pairing, but any potato chip, tortilla chip, or pita chip works well.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to sour cream, but the flavor will be slightly different.

What can I serve with sour cream and onion dip besides chips?

Try fresh vegetables, pita bread, pretzel bites, or use it as a spread on sandwiches and burgers.

Dipping potato chips into homemade sour cream and onion dip. — Enjoy this delicious dip with your favorite dippers!

More Delicious Dips and Party Appetizers

5-Ingredient Pizza Dip
Hot and Creamy Artichoke Dip
The Best Deviled Eggs with Bacon
Jalapeño Corn Dip with Bacon
Spinach-Artichoke Dip Wonton Cups

For more inspiration, check out this collection of easy appetizer recipes!

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