1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
Introduction
This 1-hour smoked Gouda and caramelized onion dip is a deliciously creamy and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings. The slow-cooked onions add a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky cheese. It’s an irresistible dip that’s sure to impress your guests.

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
- Step 1: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper, then cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes until the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the shredded smoked Gouda, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir until the mixture is well blended.
- Step 4: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture.
- Step 5: Transfer the combined mixture to a small baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoky kick, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the dip before baking.
- Use red onions instead of yellow for a slightly different sweetness and color.
- Serve with a variety of dippers such as sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing platter.
Storage
Store any 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 smooth texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature and stir before baking.
What can I use instead of smoked Gouda?
If smoked Gouda isn’t available, smoked cheddar or mozzarella can be good substitutes, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Print1-Hour Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
This Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip is a rich, creamy, and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. Slow-caramelized onions add deep sweetness and complexity, while smoked Gouda cheese imparts a smoky, melty richness. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dip is perfect served warm with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dip Mixture
- 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
- Caramelize the Onions: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with salt and black pepper. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally for 30-40 minutes, until the onions turn a deep golden brown and become richly caramelized, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded smoked Gouda, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Fold in Caramelized Onions: Gently fold the cooled caramelized onions into the cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution without breaking down the onions.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a small baking dish, spreading it out evenly to encourage uniform baking.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The dip should be bubbly around the edges and have a lightly golden top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top before serving warm alongside your choice of chips, crackers, or veggies.
Notes
- Caramelizing the onions slowly is key to developing their rich, sweet flavor.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the dip mixture.
- For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked Gouda with a medium to strong smoke profile.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time by caramelizing onions and mixing all ingredients, then baking just before serving.
- Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Keywords: Smoked Gouda dip, caramelized onion dip, baked cheese dip, party appetizer, creamy cheese dip

