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Baked Three-Cheese Onion Dip with Chive and Pepperoncini

This baked three-cheese onion dip is the ultimate vegetarian crowd-pleaser, combining the savoury depth of caramelised onions with a rich, melting blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and smooth cream cheese. The addition of tangy peperoncini and fresh chives provides a vibrant contrast to the indulgent, bubbling cheese. Perfectly golden and incredibly moreish, it is an essential addition to any party platter or relaxed weekend gathering.

Quick to prepare and consistently popular, this homemade dip is best served warm alongside crisp crackers or crunchy tortilla crisps. While it feels like a sophisticated treat, the simple technique ensures a thick, creamy consistency every time. It is a fantastic choice for those seeking a comforting snack that pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or a crisp craft lager.

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Ingredients for Baked Three-Cheese Onion Dip with Chive and Pepperoncini

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • Kosher salt

  • 230g cream cheese, room temperature

  • 60g mayonnaise

  • 2 teaspoons cornflour

  • 110g sharp white cheddar, coarsely grated (about 150g ), divided

  • 60g Monterey Jack, coarsely grated (about 80g ), divided

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped peperoncini

  • Crackers and/or tortilla crisps (for serving)

Preheat oven to 375°. Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium. Cook onion, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and softened, 8–10 minutes; season with salt. Let cool.

Pulse cream cheese and mayonnaise in a food processor until smooth.

Toss cornflour, 90g cheddar, and 30g Monterey Jack in a medium bowl to coat cheese. Mix in cream cheese mixture and cooked onion; season with salt and pepper. Scrape into a 1-qt. baking dish and top with remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack. Bake dip until golden and bubbling, 20–25 minutes. Let dip cool 5 minutes, then top with chives and peperoncini. Serve with crackers.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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