Potato Chips Classic Onion Dip

Featured in: Evening Glow Plates

This dish features crunchy, salted potato chips paired with a creamy dip made from sour cream, mayonnaise, and finely chopped onions. The dip can be enhanced by caramelizing the onions for a deeper flavor. Fresh chives and lemon juice add brightness, while garlic and onion powders balance the seasoning. This snack suits casual occasions and is quick to prepare, taking about 25 minutes total.

For variation, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, and additional spices like cayenne or Worcestershire sauce can add heat or complexity. Served chilled with chips, this combination brings a satisfying, savory snack experience.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:52:00 GMT
Crispy potato chips alongside creamy onion dip, a perfect appetizer for any occasion. Save
Crispy potato chips alongside creamy onion dip, a perfect appetizer for any occasion. | cheerfulchefs.com

A crowd-pleasing snack featuring crisp salty potato chips paired with a creamy tangy onion dip—perfect for parties game nights or casual gatherings.

This snack is always a hit at our family gatherings and game nights bringing everyone together around the bowl of dip.

Ingredients

  • Potato Chips: 200 g plain salted potato chips
  • Onion Dip: 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for caramelized onions)
  • Onion Dip: 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • Onion Dip: 240 g (1 cup) sour cream
  • Onion Dip: 120 g (½ cup) mayonnaise
  • Onion Dip: ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Onion Dip: ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Onion Dip: ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Onion Dip: ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • Onion Dip: 1 tablespoon fresh chives finely sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • Onion Dip: 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1:
(Optional) Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add chopped onion and sauté stirring frequently until golden brown and caramelized about 10 minutes. Let cool.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl combine the sour cream mayonnaise garlic powder onion powder salt black pepper lemon juice and chives.
Step 3:
Stir in the cooled caramelized onions (or use the raw chopped onion for a sharper flavor). Mix well until smooth.
Step 4:
Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Step 5:
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with extra chives.
Step 6:
Serve with potato chips arranged around the bowl.
Golden-brown potato chips ready to be dipped into a flavorful homemade onion dip. Save
Golden-brown potato chips ready to be dipped into a flavorful homemade onion dip. | cheerfulchefs.com

Sharing this dip always creates fun moments around the table with smiles and conversations flowing.

Preparation Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

10 minutes (for caramelizing onions optional)

Nutritional Information

Calories 240 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 20 g Protein 2 g (per serving)

A close-up of potato chips with onion dip, a classic American snack perfectly portioned. Save
A close-up of potato chips with onion dip, a classic American snack perfectly portioned. | cheerfulchefs.com

Enjoy this classic snack as the perfect addition to any gathering or solo treat.

Recipe FAQs

Can I caramelize the onions ahead of time?

Yes, caramelized onions can be prepared in advance and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days, allowing the dip flavors to deepen when mixed later.

What can I substitute for sour cream in the dip?

Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative, providing similar creaminess and tang without altering the dip's texture significantly.

How can I adjust the dip for more heat?

Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can introduce a spicy kick without overpowering the creamy base.

Is it better to use caramelized or raw onions in the dip?

Caramelized onions offer a sweeter, richer flavor, while raw onions give a sharper, more pungent taste. Choose based on your flavor preference.

What beverages pair well with this snack?

Light, sparkling wines or a pale ale complement the salty chips and creamy dip, balancing richness with refreshing notes.

Potato Chips Classic Onion Dip

Crisp potato chips paired with a smooth, tangy onion dip for easy and flavorful snacking.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Evening Glow Plates

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background American

Portions 6 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly

What You’ll Need

Potato Chips

01 7 oz salted plain potato chips

Onion Dip

01 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for caramelizing onions)
02 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 1 cup sour cream
04 ½ cup mayonnaise
05 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
06 ½ teaspoon onion powder
07 ¼ teaspoon salt
08 ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
09 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely sliced, plus extra for garnish
10 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Caramelize Onions (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until golden brown and caramelized, approximately 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 02

Prepare Dip Base: In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and finely sliced chives.

Step 03

Incorporate Onions: Stir in the cooled caramelized onions or raw chopped onion for a sharper flavor. Mix thoroughly until smooth.

Step 04

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as preferred.

Step 05

Garnish and Serve: Transfer dip to a serving bowl and garnish with extra chives. Arrange potato chips around the bowl to serve.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Skillet (for caramelizing onions)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Serving bowl

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains milk (sour cream, mayonnaise) and egg (mayonnaise). Verify chip and mayonnaise labels for gluten or other allergens.

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 240
  • Fats: 17 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20 grams
  • Proteins: 2 grams