Smoked Gouda & Onion Dip
This Smoked Gouda & Onion Dip is the ultimate comfort food, blending the deep, nutty flavor of smoked Gouda with sweet, caramelized onions in a rich, creamy base. Baked until golden and bubbling, it's an irresistible appetizer that promises to be the star of any gathering. Prepare for a truly luxurious and comforting dipping experience.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
55 minutes
Servings
Serves 8-10
Keywords
Why This Recipe Delivers
- Rich, smoky flavor profile from the Gouda and caramelized onions.
- Perfectly creamy and indulgent texture.
- An impressive appetizer that's surprisingly easy to make.
- Versatile for various serving options, from chips to veggies.
- Ideal for entertaining or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 140 grams (1 ½ cups) smoked Gouda cheese, grated
- 225 grams (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 240 milliliters (1 cup) sour cream
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 30 milliliters (2 tablespoons) fresh chives, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 5 milliliters (1 teaspoon) Worcestershire sauce
- 5 milliliters (1 teaspoon) Dijon mustard
- 2.5 milliliters (½ teaspoon) black pepper, freshly ground
- 2.5 milliliters (½ teaspoon) salt, or to taste
- 15 milliliters (1 tablespoon) olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare an oven-safe baking dish, about 1-liter (1-quart) capacity.
- In a medium skillet, add 15 milliliters (1 tablespoon) of olive oil and heat over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and have started to take on a light golden color, indicating caramelization. This slow cooking develops their natural sweetness.
- Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for just 1 to 2 minutes more, until fragrant. Be vigilant to avoid burning the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the onion and garlic mixture to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- To the cream base, add the grated smoked Gouda cheese, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the base.
- Gently fold in the cooled sautéed onions and garlic, along with 30 milliliters (2 tablespoons) of fresh chopped chives. Mix just until combined, ensuring the delicious savory elements are spread throughout the dip.
- Transfer the entire dip mixture into your prepared oven-safe baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure consistent heating.
- Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, visibly bubbling around the edges, and the top has achieved a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the dip to rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the dip to set slightly and intensifies the flavors.
- Garnish the warm dip with an additional sprinkle of fresh chopped chives, if desired, for a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness. Serve immediately with your favorite tortilla chips, sturdy crackers, or an assortment of fresh-cut vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices.
Tools You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish (approx. 1-liter / 1-quart)
- Medium skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Grater for cheese
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Essential Success Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a lump-free, smooth dip base.
- Take your time caramelizing the onions; this step is crucial for developing the deep, sweet flavor that makes the dip so special. Don't rush it.
- Avoid overcooking the garlic; it should be fragrant, not browned or burnt, which can introduce bitterness.
- Use freshly grated smoked Gouda for the best flavor and melt. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Allow the dip to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set slightly and prevents it from being too runny when served.
Professional Cooking Secrets
- For an extra layer of depth, deglaze the skillet after sautéing the onions with a splash of dry white wine or a tablespoon of sherry before adding the garlic. Reduce until almost dry, then proceed.
- Infuse the olive oil with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for a few minutes before adding the onions, then remove the herb before continuing the recipe. This adds subtle aromatic notes.
- Consider using a combination of smoked Gouda and a sharp white cheddar for a more complex cheese flavor profile.
Notes
- Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure Worcestershire sauce does not contain anchovies.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture if you prefer a little heat.
- Try serving with homemade crostini or pretzel bites for a different texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip mixture (before baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, transfer to a baking dish and bake as directed, potentially adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
What kind of smoked Gouda should I use?
Look for a good quality smoked Gouda from the deli or cheese section of your grocery store. The intensity of the smoke can vary, so choose one you enjoy. Avoid overly processed pre-packaged versions for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this dip without baking it?
While the recipe is designed for baking to achieve a warm, bubbling, and golden crust, you could technically serve it cold. However, the flavors truly meld and deepen when baked, and the cheese melts into a luxurious texture that is hard to replicate with a cold dip.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 380, Protein: 15g, Fat: 30g, Carbs: 12g (per serving, estimated for 10 servings)
Allergy Information
Contains dairy. This dip is gluten-free when served with gluten-free crackers or vegetables. To make it truly vegetarian, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is anchovy-free.
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