This Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip is pure comfort in a bowl. It combines the sweetness of slowly cooked onions with the smoky crunch of crispy bacon, all mixed into a creamy, dreamy base that’s perfect for dipping. It’s the kind of snack that instantly makes any gathering feel cozy and fun.
I love making this dip when I know friends are coming over because it’s always the first thing to disappear. The caramelized onions add such a rich depth of flavor, and the bacon brings just the right amount of salty goodness. I usually cook the onions low and slow to get that golden, slightly sweet taste that makes this dip so special.
For serving, I like to offer a big bowl of this dip with an assortment of crunchy chips, fresh veggies, or even warm bread slices. It’s an easy way to get everyone chatting and grabbing more, and it’s perfect for movie nights or casual get-togethers. Honestly, once you try this, it’ll be your go-to dip for any occasion!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crisp bacon adds smoky, salty crunch. You can swap with turkey bacon or smoked mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Yellow Onions: These are perfect for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. If unavailable, white onions work but maybe less sweet.
Cream Cheese & Dairy: The combo of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo makes the dip rich and creamy. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayo.
Mozzarella Cheese: It melts well and gives a nice stretch. You can also use Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for different flavors.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme adds freshness and depth. If you don’t have these, a pinch of dried Italian seasoning works fine.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions Without Burning Them?
Slowly cooking onions until golden brown is key to unlocking their sweet flavor. Here’s an easy way:
- Slice onions thin and evenly.
- Cook on medium-low heat with butter and a pinch of sugar to encourage caramelization.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen bits on the pan.
- Patience is important! It takes about 25-30 mins to get rich, golden onions.
This slow cooking draws out sweetness and soft texture, making your dip extra delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking bacon and slowly caramelizing onions evenly.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps stir the onions gently without scratching your pan.
- Mixing bowl – you’ll mix the creamy dip ingredients smoothly here.
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish – great for baking the dip until bubbly and golden.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing onions and chopping bacon and herbs safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked sausage or pancetta for a different smoky flavor that still adds richness.
- Add diced roasted red peppers or jalapeños for a bit of sweetness or heat that lifts the dip.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a stronger cheese taste that melts nicely.
- Mix in chopped green onions or chives for a fresh, mild onion twist that brightens the dip.
How to Make Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Serving:
- French bread slices or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes total—30 minutes to slowly caramelize the onions and crisp the bacon, then around 10-15 minutes to mix, bake, and garnish. Easy to prepare and quick to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon and Caramelize Onions:
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and drain it on paper towels. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet — this adds great flavor!
Next, add the butter to the bacon fat. Stir in the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat, stirring every few minutes. Keep an eye on them and add a splash of water if they start sticking. This process takes about 25-30 minutes to turn the onions golden and sweetly caramelized.
2. Prepare the Dip Mixture:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary or thyme. Mix everything well until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the caramelized onions and half of the bacon you cooked earlier.
3. Bake and Serve:
Transfer the creamy mixture to an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the remaining bacon bits on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and lightly golden.
Take the dip out and sprinkle extra fresh herbs over the top for a nice touch. Serve it warm alongside toasted French bread slices or your favorite crackers. Enjoy dipping and sharing this scrumptious treat!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from chilled.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
If fresh rosemary or thyme isn’t available, substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Add them when mixing the dip ingredients for the best flavor distribution.
Can I Use Frozen Onions Instead of Fresh?
While fresh onions caramelize best, you can use thawed frozen onions. Make sure to drain any excess water thoroughly before cooking to avoid soggy dip.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy.