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Few things bring people together like a rich and savory dip at a gathering This caramelized onion dip layered with crispy bacon sharp cheddar and swoops of cream is the kind of dish guests remember long after the party I started serving this when I needed something extra special for holiday get togethers and now it is a staple request for football games birthdays and cozy nights in
The first time I made this my friends hovered by the oven waiting for it to finish baking and it disappeared in minutes Now I whip it up whenever I want to guarantee big smiles at the table
Ingredients
- Smoked bacon: look for thick cut bacon as it crisps up better and holds its flavor
- Shallots and onions: pick firm onions for the best caramelized texture sweet onions are also great
- Balsamic glaze: adds just the right tang to balance the sweetness try to use a thick aged glaze
- Brown sugar: this brings out the onions rich notes and helps them turn perfectly golden
- Cream cheese: find one that is full fat and at room temperature for smooth mixing
- Sour cream: use the best you can find for a creamier texture
- Sharp cheddar: choose a block of cheese and shred it yourself it melts better than pre shredded
- Mozzarella: softens and stretches for a velvety finish whole milk mozzarella is best
- Salt: sea salt brings out all the flavors
- Parsley seasoning: gives a pop of green but can be skipped if you prefer
- Baked crostini or tortilla chips for scooping: sturdy chips work best to hold up all the toppings
Step by Step Instructions
- Crisp the Bacon:
- Cook the bacon in oil over medium heat until every edge is deeply browned and crunchy This step is all about building smokiness and getting bits that will stay crispy after baking
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Sauté thinly sliced shallots and onions in the bacon fat on medium low heat Take your time stirring often for about twenty minutes This should smell sweet and rich In the last five minutes sprinkle in balsamic glaze and brown sugar This creates a jammy golden finish that really makes the dip special
- Mix the Filling:
- Combine softened cream cheese sour cream both cheeses crispy bacon save some for topping and most of the caramelized onions in a large bowl Mix very well until the texture is creamy and streaked with bacon Season with salt to taste
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the mixture into a baking dish Even out the top for bubbling edges Sprinkle with extra cheese and the reserved bacon and onions Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for ten minutes then blast under the broiler for a couple minutes until everything is crisp and golden on top
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the dip rest a minute before serving so the flavors settle Scatter with parsley seasoning for color Serve warm with baked crostini or sturdy tortilla chips
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You Must Know
- Packed with protein from bacon and cheese
- Holds well for hours so you can make ahead
- Great for feeding a crowd or a cozy family snack
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how the balsamic glaze transforms ordinary onions into something unforgettable I can still picture my cousins sneaking extra scoops straight from the baking dish when I make this for game day
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool to room temperature then transfer to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days This dip reheats well in the oven or microwave Give it a good stir after reheating to bring back its creaminess
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are short on shallots just use more onions Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if needed Try smoked gouda or fontina for a slightly different cheesy flavor If you want a vegetarian version swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers
Serving Suggestions
Pile the dip onto sturdy crostini pita chips or wide cut potato chips For a more elevated look place it in a shallow tart pan and scatter with scallions or chives on top It also works well as a topping for baked potatoes or grilled vegetables
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Why This Dip is Special
Caramelized onion dip is a classic at parties across the US and adding crispy bacon takes it over the top The combination of sweet tangy onions and savory bacon set into creamy cheese is rustic comfort at its best This recipe brings old school potluck vibes but with a modern upgrade
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I achieve perfect caramelized onions?
Cook onions and shallots slowly over medium-low heat, stirring often. They'll turn golden and sweet in about 20 minutes. Add balsamic glaze and a hint of brown sugar at the end for extra flavor depth.
- → Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip, assemble it in a baking dish, and refrigerate. Just bake shortly before serving for the best melty texture.
- → Which cheeses work best for this dip?
A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella offers a balance of flavor and meltiness. Feel free to experiment with other varieties like Gruyère for different tastes.
- → What can I serve alongside this dip?
Baked crostini, tortilla chips, or crunchy vegetables pair well, adding texture and a perfect vehicle for scooping up the savory dip.
- → How do I keep the bacon crispy?
Reserve some of the bacon for sprinkling on top after baking. This helps maintain its crispiness and creates a pleasant contrast with the creamy dip.