This Alton Brown Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe is a rich and savory party favorite, which uses slow-cooked onions and a creamy blend of sour cream and mayo. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Alton Brown Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, peeled (about 3 1/2 pounds)
- 1/4 teaspoon plus a pinch baking soda
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Sherry vinegar, for deglazing
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
How To Make Alton Brown Caramelized Onion Dip
- Prep the onions: Thinly slice the onions using a mandoline or sharp knife. Place them in a large pot and sprinkle with baking soda, salt, and brown sugar. Toss gently and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Start caramelizing: Uncover the pot, set it over high heat, and drizzle in olive oil. Cook, stirring often, until the onions reduce by 75% and turn light golden.
- Deglaze and finish cooking: Reduce heat to medium and cook for 15 minutes more, stirring frequently. Deglaze with a splash of sherry vinegar and water. Lower heat, scrape up browned bits, and stir until onions are deep golden and reduced to 1 1/2 cups.
- Cool the onions: Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Mix the dip: In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the cooled caramelized onions with sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and white pepper. Stir well.
- Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best) before serving.

Recipe Tips
- How to caramelize onions faster: The baking soda helps break down the onions more quickly while still developing deep flavor.
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Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after chilling overnight. -
What can I use instead of sherry vinegar?
Red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar are good substitutes. -
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, for a lighter version with a similar tang.
What To Serve With Onion Dip
This creamy dip pairs perfectly with:
- Potato chips
- Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers)
- Toasted baguette slices
- Pretzels
- Pita chips
How To Store Caramelized Onion Dip
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
Caramelized Onion Dip Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 180 (per 1/4 cup serving)
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use white or red onions instead of yellow?
Yellow onions are best for sweetness, but white or red can work in a pinch.
Why add baking soda to onions?
It speeds up the caramelization process by breaking down onion cell walls.
Can I use all caramelized onions in the dip?
Yes, for a deeper onion flavor, but reserve some for topping if desired.
What makes this dip better the next day?
The flavors meld and intensify after chilling overnight.
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Alton Brown Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
Description
A savory, crowd-pleasing dip made with slow-cooked onions, sour cream, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice onions and rest with baking soda, salt, and sugar for 10 min.
- Cook onions in oil until golden and reduced.
- Deglaze with sherry vinegar and cook until deep brown. Cool.
- Mix 1/2 cup onions with sour cream, mayo, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Chill for at least 1 hour and serve.
