Caramelized Onion and Spinach Dip

Name: Caramelized Onion and Spinach Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up this Caramelized Onion and Spinach Dip for parties and gatherings. It's a creamy delight packed with flavor, and the sweet, rich taste of caramelized onions perfectly complements the earthy spinach. Every time I serve it, I get tons of compliments, and I love seeing everyone dive in for more. This dip is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, featuring simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want this dip for every occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T14:46:27.477Z

When I first made this dip, I was amazed at how the simple combination of onions and spinach created something so luscious. The secret lies in the slow caramelization of the onions, which brings out their natural sweetness and infuses the dip with depth. I very often play with herbs to enhance the flavor, and the addition of a hint of garlic makes it irresistible.

I've tried different variations, but I always come back to the classic. Serving it warm, right out of the oven, adds to the experience, as the cheese is all melty and gooey. Pair it with crispy pita chips or fresh veggies, and you have a snack that everyone loves!

        Why You'll Love This Dip
        Rich and creamy texture that’s utterly satisfying
Perfect balance of sweetness from caramelized onions
Quick to prepare, making it an easy choice for gatherings

      

Flavor Development

The secret to achieving a deeply satisfying flavor in this dip lies in the caramelization of the onions. As they slowly sauté, they undergo a natural sweetness transformation that enhances the overall taste. It’s essential to cook them over medium heat rather than high, as this allows the sugars in the onions to caramelize without burning. Stirring occasionally will help them cook evenly and develop that rich, golden color, which usually takes around 25 minutes.

Incorporating fresh spinach adds not only vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients. Sautéing it right at the end of the onion caramelization ensures that it retains some of its bright green color and flavor. If you're using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture to avoid a watery dip. This step is crucial, as it can dilute the creamy texture you’re aiming for.

Cheese Selection and Storage

Choosing the right cheeses can elevate this dip beyond expectation. While mozzarella provides a lovely stretch and creaminess, the Parmesan introduces a sharp, nutty contrast that balances the sweetness of the onions. For a twist, consider using smoked Gouda or a sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor profile. If you're aiming to reduce calories, low-fat cream cheese works well, but the texture may be slightly different.

Once baked, the dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If you have leftovers, this dip can also be enjoyed cold as a spread on sandwiches or served with crackers for a quick snack.

Serving and Variations

This dip is wonderfully versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Serve it warm alongside toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or even fresh vegetable sticks for a colorful platter. To add an extra layer of flavor, consider garnishing it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also brightens the flavor.

If you're looking to spice things up, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. For a more decadent version, fold in some crumbled bacon or artichoke hearts. Experimenting with different add-ins can give this classic dip a fresh twist, ensuring it never gets old at your gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your dip:

Ingredients

2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you can start making the dip!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious dip:

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, cooking slowly until the onions are golden and caramelized, about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Spinach

In the last few minutes of caramelizing the onions, add the chopped spinach and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the spinach is wilted and the garlic is fragrant.

Mix the Dip

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in the caramelized onion and spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the Dip

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

Serve warm with your favorite dips or veggies!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also substitute the mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper taste.

Common FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dip mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to serve, pop it in the oven directly from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time for it to heat through properly.

What if I don’t have all the cheeses? Don't worry if you don’t have both mozzarella and Parmesan. You can use just one type of cheese, or substitute with others like Gruyère or queso blanco. Each cheese will impart its unique flavor, creating a slightly different dip every time.

Scaling the Recipe

This Caramelized Onion and Spinach Dip is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If you plan to feed a crowd, simply double the ingredients and bake it in a larger baking dish. Keep an eye on the baking time; it may require an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s thoroughly heated and bubbly. A deep dish will need longer than a shallow one, so adjust accordingly.

For smaller gatherings or a personal snack, this recipe can be halved. Just make sure to adjust your cooking utensil sizes, opting for a smaller skillet and baking dish to ensure proper cooking and browning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best results.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

It's great with pita chips, fresh veggies, or even sliced baguette.

→ Is it possible to make this dip healthier?

You can substitute low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version without losing much flavor.

→ Can I freeze the dip?

Yes, you can freeze the mixture before baking. Just thaw in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.