Description
This creamy and flavorful Smoked Gouda & Onion Dip combines melted smoked Gouda with sautéed caramelized onions and garlic for a rich, savory appetizer. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbling, it’s the ideal dip to serve warm alongside tortilla chips or fresh vegetables for any gathering or casual snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Base
- 1 ½ cups smoked Gouda cheese, grated
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, plus extra for garnish
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Serving
- Tortilla chips or assorted fresh vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to prepare for baking the dip.
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until translucent and beginning to caramelize.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, taking care not to burn it. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Prepare Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Cheese and Seasonings: Add the grated smoked Gouda, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt to the cream mixture. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
- Fold in Aromatics: Gently fold the sautéed onions and garlic along with 2 tablespoons of chopped chives into the cheese mixture, blending well but maintaining some texture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly into an oven-safe baking dish in preparation for baking.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until it is hot, bubbly, and has developed a golden-brown crust on top.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with extra chopped chives for a fresh touch.
- Serve Warm: Serve the warm dip with tortilla chips or fresh-cut vegetables for dipping and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- The onions can be cooked longer for a deeper caramelized flavor if desired.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth dip.
- Adding Worcestershire sauce adds complexity but can be omitted for a vegetarian option.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Use fresh chives rather than dried for the best flavor impact.
