Name: Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Introduction

This Smoked Gouda and Caramelized Onion Dip is a rich, creamy appetizer perfect for any gathering. The deep sweetness of slow-cooked onions pairs beautifully with the smoky, nutty flavor of Gouda cheese for an irresistible dip.

A round white ceramic dish filled with a thick layer of golden-brown melted cheese that is bubbly and slightly crispy on top, sprinkled with bright green chives. A scoop is being lifted out, showing gooey, stretchable cheese strings beneath the browned surface, revealing a soft, creamy, pale-white base layer underneath. The photo highlights the rich texture and the contrast between the crispy cheese top and the smooth filling inside, all set against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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. 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 smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Transfer the dip mixture to a small baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top has turned lightly golden.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped chives before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the onions.
Use a mixture of smoked and regular Gouda for a milder smoky flavor.
Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for a variety of dipping options.
To save time, you can caramelize the onions a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to use.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Stir before serving for best texture.

How to Serve

A close-up of a baked dish in a white oval casserole, showing a golden-brown melted cheese top layer with some darker toasted spots. The cheese layer is bubbling with a slightly crispy texture. Scattered on the cheese top are small pieces of bright green chopped chives, adding a fresh pop of color. The dish sits on a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can caramelize the onions and mix the dip the day before. Keep it refrigerated and bake just before serving for the best results.

What can I use if I don’t have smoked Gouda?

You can substitute smoked Gouda with regular Gouda, smoked cheddar, or even Gruyère to keep a similar creamy and flavorful profile.