This Ina Garten Pan Fried Onion Dip Recipe is a rich and savory dip, which includes caramelized yellow onions and cream cheese. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Pan Fried Onion Dip Recipe Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup good-quality mayonnaise

How To Make Ina Garten Pan Fried Onion Dip Recipe
- Caramelize the onions: In a large sauté pan, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until onions are golden and caramelized. Let cool.
- Make the creamy base: In a bowl, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Mix and chill: Fold in the cooled onions. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Serve: Serve cold or slightly cool with chips, crackers, or raw veggies.

Recipe Tips
-
How to get deeply caramelized onions:
Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally. Don’t rush the process. -
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, it works as a healthier substitute but changes the flavor slightly. -
How long can it chill?
Chill for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for flavor. -
What kind of onions work best?
Yellow onions are ideal for their sweet flavor when caramelized. -
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What To Serve With Onion Dip
This dip pairs perfectly with:
- Potato chips
- Crackers (buttery or crisp)
- Sliced cucumbers or bell peppers
- Baby carrots or celery sticks
- Toasted baguette slices

How To Store Onion Dip
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Not recommended—dairy-based dips tend to separate when frozen.
Onion Dip Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and serving size.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will be slightly lighter and less rich.
Why is my dip watery?
Make sure onions are fully cooled and not releasing steam into the mix.
Is cayenne necessary?
No, it’s optional but adds a subtle heat.
Can I use a food processor to mix?
Yes, just pulse gently—don’t overmix or it may turn runny.
Try More Recipes:
Ina Garten Pan Fried Onion Dip Recipe
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy2 1/2 cups
servings10
minutes30
minutes120
kcalA savory dip made with deeply caramelized onions, cream cheese, and sour cream—perfect for parties and snacking.
Ingredients
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2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
-
4 tbsp unsalted butter
-
1/4 cup vegetable oil
-
1 tsp kosher salt
-
1/2 tsp black pepper
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
1/2 cup mayonnaise
Directions
- Sauté onions with butter, oil, salt, pepper, and cayenne for 25–30 min. Cool.
- Mix cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo until smooth.
- Fold in onions, chill for 1 hour.
- Serve with chips, crackers, or veggies.
