Smoked Salmon Caramelized Onion Dip

Nothing brings people together like a hot, cheesy onion dip, especially when it’s loaded with rich, smoky flavor. This gooey, golden appetizer starts with sweet caramelized onions and melty smoked Gouda, then gets taken to the next level with smoked salmon. We love it with our Smoked Sockeye Salmon, it adds just the right balance of color and depth. It's not just a party dip... it's heaven on a chip.
Recipe provided by: Manell Prevot

A close-up of a tortilla chip scooping hot smoked salmon and caramelized onion dip with melted cheese pulling from a bowl, made with Kodiak Island Smokehouse smoked salmon.

Prep Time: 20–30 minutes (includes caramelizing onions)
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 45–60 minutes
Servings: About 8
Yield: One 9-inch cast iron skillet or medium baking dish

Ingredients

  • 1 large sweet onion
  • 3 Tbsp butter
  • 2 cups shredded smoked Gouda cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 Tbsp minced chives or green onion tops
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 6–8 oz smoked salmon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Caramelize the onions: Peel and halve the onion, then slice it very thin. Melt butter in a skillet over low heat. Add the onions and a sprinkle of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and sweet—this can take 20–30 minutes. Set aside when done.
  3. Prepare the smoked salmon: Remove skin, bones, and scrape off any gray or silver meat. Dice and set aside.
  4. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, mash the softened cream cheese with a fork. Stir in the mayonnaise, garlic, cayenne, and chives or green onions. Add the shredded Gouda and diced smoked salmon. Mix until combined.
  5. Combine and bake: Stir in the caramelized onions. Transfer the mixture to a cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
  6. Serve hot with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or your favorite crackers.
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