This caramelized onion and bacon dip is the perfect party snack! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors from the sweet onions and crispy bacon. Yum!
Honestly, I could eat this dip all day long with chips or veggies. It always makes me the star of the snack table! Just wait until you see it disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful crunch and salty flavor to the dip. You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option or even use chopped pancetta for a different taste.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for caramelizing, but you could also use sweet onions for an even sweeter flavor. Shallots can be a nice alternative as well!
Cheeses: Cream cheese gives a smooth texture, while mozzarella and Parmesan add creaminess and flavor. If you want a lighter option, try Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, and any melty cheese like cheddar works great too.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note. If you don’t have any, use dried thyme or even Italian seasoning if needed.
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience and low heat. It brings out their natural sweetness and rich flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding some butter and reserved bacon fat.
- Once melted, add thinly sliced onions, stirring them to coat in the fat.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and cook slowly, stirring occasionally. This can take 30-40 minutes.
- In the final 5 minutes, add minced garlic for extra flavor!
- Season with salt and pepper as they cook to balance the sweetness.
Take your time with the onions; the longer you cook them (without burning), the better they will taste!
Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Baguette or toasted bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll love how easy it is to create this creamy, cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it turns crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, carefully remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain any excess fat. This will help keep it crispy!
2. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat. Add the butter to the skillet and melt it over medium-low heat. Now, add the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook them until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, which will take about 30-40 minutes. Remember to add the minced garlic in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added flavor. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper!
3. Mix the Dip Ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the onions are cooking. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, caramelized onions with garlic, half of the cooked bacon, and thyme leaves. Mix it all together until well combined, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
4. Bake the Dip:
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and sprinkle the remaining bacon on top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and garnish it with fresh thyme sprigs. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers. Enjoy this rich and savory dip at your next gathering, and watch it disappear!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great leaner option and will still add a nice flavor to the dip. Just make sure to cook it until it’s crispy for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Dip Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also add extra herbs for more depth!
Can I Prepare This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dip mixture ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve! You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy it again as a dip or spread!
