Onion Dip Potato Chips

My roommate in college used to make this onion dip for every movie night, and I honestly thought it was some fancy gourmet creation until she finally showed me how dead simple it actually was. Now I make it for everything from Super Bowl parties to those nights when you just need something comforting and salty. There is something so satisfying about the way the sweet caramelized onions play against the cool creamy base.

I once brought this to a potluck and watched three people hover around the bowl until it was gone, someone actually asked if I would make it for their wedding reception. The best part is how the flavors get even better after sitting in the fridge for a day, so I often double the recipe just to have leftovers.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Use real butter here because the milk solids help the onions caramelize beautifully
• 2 large yellow onions: Yellow onions have the perfect balance of sweetness and sharpness for this dip
• 1 teaspoon salt: This helps draw moisture out of the onions so they brown instead of steam
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Freshly cracked gives you a warmer more complex flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Just a tiny pinch helps the onions along in their caramelization journey
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This gives the dip body and that classic creamy richness
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a nice tang that cuts through all the richness
• 1/4 cup cream cheese softened: The secret ingredient that makes everything feel more luxurious
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides that deep umami background note
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives finely chopped: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and beautiful green color
• 200 g thick cut potato chips: Thick cut chips are sturdy enough to hold up to this hearty dip

Instructions

Caramelize the onions:

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat then add the chopped onions salt pepper and sugar. Stir frequently and watch as they transform from white to golden to a deep brown about 18 to 20 minutes. Let them cool completely before moving on.

Make the creamy base:

In a medium bowl whisk together the mayonnaise sour cream softened cream cheese Worcestershire sauce and chives until everything is smooth and combined.

Combine everything:

Fold the cooled caramelized onions into the creamy mixture. Taste and add more salt or pepper if you think it needs it.

Let it rest:

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting period is crucial for the flavors to really get to know each other.

Service time:

Scoop into your favorite serving bowl sprinkle with extra chives and set out with those thick cut potato chips.

Save

My kids now request this for every family gathering and they have started fighting over who gets to scrape the last bit out of the bowl. It has become one of those recipes that feels like home no matter where I serve it.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I swap in Greek yogurt for the sour cream when I want something lighter and it still works beautifully. A little garlic powder or smoked paprika can take this in a completely different direction if you are feeling adventurous.

Serving Suggestions

Beyond potato chips this dip is fantastic with crudité vegetables or even spread on a burger. I have also used it as a topping for baked potatoes which might be my secret favorite way to enjoy it.

Storage And Make Ahead Tips

This dip keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and actually improves with time. You can caramelize the onions a day ahead and keep them in a sealed container until you are ready to mix everything together.

• Bring the dip to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture
• Stir well before serving as the onions sometimes settle to the bottom
• The onions can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge

Save

There is something so uncomplicated and happy about a bowl of onion dip and a pile of chips. It is the kind of food that brings people together without trying too hard.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I caramelize onions perfectly?

Cook onions slowly over medium heat with butter, stirring frequently until they turn a rich golden brown, about 18-20 minutes for full sweetness.

→ Can I substitute sour cream for a lighter option?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute to reduce fat while maintaining creamy texture and tang.

→ What enhances the flavor of the onion dip?

A pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika can add extra depth and warmth to the dip's flavor.

→ How should I store the dip if made ahead?

Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; chilling helps flavors meld and improves taste.

→ Are there gluten-free serving options?

Serve with gluten-free vegetable sticks or certified gluten-free chips to accommodate gluten restrictions.