This French Onion Dip is a creamy, caramelized masterpiece that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Rich, velvety textures blend with the deep, sweet flavors of slow-cooked onions, creating a dip that’s irresistibly savory. In just over an hour, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and elegant, ready to elevate your chips, veggies, or crackers.
Each bite offers a harmonious balance of tangy sour cream, aromatic herbs, and a hint of golden sweetness from the onions. With its luscious consistency and bold flavor profile, this dip is a nostalgic yet sophisticated treat. Whether you’re hosting friends or indulging solo, it’s a recipe that promises to impress and satisfy every time.
Ingredients for French Onion Dip

- For the caramelized onions:
- 2 Tablespoons (28 g) butter (salted or unsalted)
- 1 ½ lbs (680 g) yellow onions, diced very small (see note)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- Water or broth (any kind, as needed)
- For the dip:
- 2 cups (454 g) sour cream
- ½ cup (118 g) mayonnaise
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- Chopped chives (optional, for topping)
- Potato chips (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Caramelize the onions:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions reduce in volume.
- Continue cooking, stirring as needed, until onions are caramelized and deep golden brown. Add a splash of water or broth if onions stick.
- Remove onions from the pan and let cool completely (refrigerate to speed up cooling).
- Make the dip:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, onion powder, and salt. Stir until well-mixed.
- Add the cooled caramelized onions and stir thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving (flavor improves as it sits).
- Serve:
- Top with chopped chives (optional).
- Serve with potato chips for dipping.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for French Onion Dip
French Onion Dip is a versatile crowd-pleaser! Serve it with classic potato chips for a nostalgic snack, or try it with crudités like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a lighter option. For a heartier appetizer, pair it with pretzels, pita chips, or toasted baguette slices. It also makes a delicious spread for sandwiches or burgers!
Make It Ahead: Storage and Reheating Tips
This dip is perfect for prepping in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day. If you’d like to serve it chilled, take it out of the fridge about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the sour cream and mayo may change.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Use pre-diced onions to skip the chopping step. To speed up caramelization, cook the onions over medium-high heat (stirring frequently to prevent burning) and add a pinch of baking soda to help them brown faster. Alternatively, make a double batch of caramelized onions and freeze half for future recipes!
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Customize your dip to suit your taste! Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic for extra flavor, or stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a tangy twist. For a smoky kick, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.
Essential Equipment for Success
To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need a large skillet for caramelizing the onions and a sharp chef’s knife for dicing them finely. A mixing bowl and spatula are key for combining the dip ingredients. For storage, use a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid to keep the dip fresh.

French Onion Dip
Ingredients
For the caramelized onions
- 2 Tablespoons butter salted or unsalted 28 g
- 1 ½ lbs yellow onions diced very small 680 g (see note)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- Water or broth any kind, as needed see note
For the dip
- 2 cups sour cream 454 g
- ½ cup mayonnaise 118 g
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- Chopped chives for topping, optional
- Potato chips for dipping
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add onions, sugar, and salt and cook, stirring occasionally (every few minutes) until onions have begun to reduce in volume.
- Once onions are softened and turning translucent continue to cook, stirring occasionally/as needed (keep from burning) until onions are caramelized and deep golden brown in color. If the onions begin to stick, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan.
- Once caramelized, remove onions from pan and allow to cool completely before proceeding with the recipe (you may cover them and refrigerate to speed up the cooling process).
- Make the dip
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together sour cream, mayo, onion powder, and salt until well-combined. Add (cooled) onions and stir well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Flavor develops as dip sits.