Baked Sweet Onion Cheddar Dip is a tantalizing spread that combines the rich flavors of sweet onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic spices, baked to golden perfection for a delightful snacking experience. This recipe, originating from lovewithrecipes.com, promises to elevate your culinary repertoire, offering a savory option perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch, a cozy snack, or a party appetizer. With a cook time of just 30 minutes and a total preparation time of 45 minutes, this dip is a convenient choice for those seeking a flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Yellow Sweet Onions (1 1/4): These sweet onions provide the base flavor, adding a mild sweetness and depth to the dip.
- Garlic Clove (1): Garlic lends its aromatic essence, enhancing the overall savory profile of the dish.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Creamy mayonnaise binds the ingredients together, contributing to the rich texture of the dip.
- Plain Yogurt or Sour Cream (1/4 cup): Either yogurt or sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the flavors.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup): The star of the show, sharp cheddar cheese brings a bold and distinctive taste, melting into gooey goodness when baked.
- Tabasco Sauce (to taste): A dash of Tabasco sauce adds a hint of heat, elevating the flavor profile with its spicy kick.
- Curry Powder (optional): For those craving an extra layer of complexity, curry powder can be added to enhance the aromatic notes.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/8 cup): Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory umami flavor and forms a crispy, golden crust when baked.
- Dried Ancho Chile Powder (1/8 teaspoon): For those seeking a bolder flavor, ancho chile powder can be substituted for paprika, adding a smoky, slightly spicy element.
- Sweet Paprika (to taste): Paprika adds vibrant color and a mild, peppery flavor to the dip.
- Green Onion: Fresh green onions, also known as scallions, provide a crisp, oniony garnish to finish off the dish.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 82.8 per serving
- Fat Content: 5.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 16.1mg
- Sodium Content: 149.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 4.2g
- Fiber Content: 0.6g
- Sugar Content: 2g
- Protein Content: 5.3g
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for baking.
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Prepare Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped yellow sweet onions, minced garlic clove, mayonnaise, and either plain yogurt or sour cream. Add the sharp cheddar cheese and Tabasco sauce to the mixture. If desired, incorporate curry powder for added depth of flavor.
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Spread Mixture: Lightly coat a small baking dish with cooking spray, then spread the prepared mixture evenly into the dish, ensuring a smooth surface.
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Top with Cheese and Seasonings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dip, followed by a dusting of sweet paprika to add color and flavor. For a spicier alternative, substitute ground ancho chile powder for the paprika.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top.
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Garnish and Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the dip from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
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Enjoy: Serve the Baked Sweet Onion Cheddar Dip hot or warm alongside your favorite accompaniments such as crackers, bread, or raw vegetable dippers, allowing your guests to indulge in its irresistible flavors.
Yield and Source:
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family. For larger gatherings or avid dip enthusiasts, consider doubling the batch to ensure there’s plenty to go around! The recipe was adapted from a similar version discovered by Ron from Worcester at Gail’s Recipe Swap, showcasing the beauty of culinary inspiration and adaptation.
With its rich blend of sweet onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic spices, this Baked Sweet Onion Cheddar Dip is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, offering a flavorful and comforting option for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack, a party appetizer, or a cozy night in, this versatile dip is bound to impress with its irresistible taste and creamy texture.