Ina Garten Pan Fried Onion Dip Recipe
If you are looking for the ultimate party appetizer, this Ina Garten Pan Fried Onion Dip Recipe is it. It is creamy, savory and much better than any store-bought version.
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions halved and sliced thin
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 stick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 1/2 cup good mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
Instructions
Heat the Pan
- Place your large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the butter and olive oil and wait until the butter is completely melted and bubbling.
Sauté the Onions
- Add the sliced yellow onions to the pan. Toss them gently so they are well-coated in the warm butter and oil mixture.
Caramelize the Onions
- Cook the onions for about 20 to 30 minutes. Stir them frequently until they are a deep golden brown and very soft.
Add Initial Seasoning
- Sprinkle the cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper over the onions while they cook. This helps the flavors sink into the sweet, softened onions.
Cool the Onions
- Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, remove the pan from the heat. Let the onions cool down to room temperature before adding them to the dairy.
Prepare the Cream Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise. Whisk them together until the texture is completely smooth.
Add Final Flavorings
- Stir the Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder into the creamy mixture. Use a spatula to make sure every bit is mixed in well.
Combine Onions and Cream
- Gently fold the cooled caramelized onions into the cream base. Try to distribute the onions evenly so every bite of dip is perfect.
Chill the Dip
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least two hours to allow the flavors to develop.
Serve and Enjoy
- Take the dip out of the fridge ten minutes before serving. Give it one quick stir and place it in a pretty serving bowl.
Notes
- Be patient: Do not rush the onions by turning up the heat. Slow cooking makes them sweet and delicious.
- Light version: Use light sour cream or Greek yogurt to reduce the calories slightly.
- Add herbs: Stir in a tablespoon of fresh chives or parsley for a pop of green color.
- Extra smoky: Add a tiny drop of liquid smoke or a pinch of smoked paprika to the mix.
- Cheese boost: Mix in a small handful of grated Parmesan for a sharper, saltier finish.