Boursin Cheese with Bacon Caramelized Onion
If you are looking for a simple yet unforgettable appetizer, Boursin Cheese with Bacon Caramelized Onion is everything you need – it is creamy, smoky, a little sweet, and packed with flavor.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a go-to recipe for any parties, holidays, or casual nights in. You can serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or veggies, and watch it disappear in minutes!
Now, let’s talk about why this recipe works, how to pick the best ingredients, and the step-by-step process to make it perfect every time.
Why This Recipe Works
- Minimal effort, big flavor – just a handful of pantry staples come together to create a restaurant-quality appetizer.
- Perfect balance of textures – creamy Boursin cheese meets crispy bacon and buttery caramelized onions.
- Versatile serving options – serve it with crostini, crackers, or even fresh veggies for a low-carb option.
- Crowd-pleaser – whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual wine night, this dip never disappoints.
How to Choose the Best Ingredients
We all know a great recipe starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what to look for:
Onions – the key to caramelization
Go for yellow or sweet onions. Their natural sugars help them caramelize beautifully, turning golden and rich in flavor. Red onions are too sharp, and white onions don’t have enough sweetness.
Bacon – smoky and crispy
Choose thick-cut bacon for the best texture. It stays crispy and holds up against the soft onions and cheese. If you love smoky flavors, applewood-smoked bacon is a great choice.
Boursin Cheese – the creamy base
Boursin’s Garlic & Fine Herbs variety is a classic, but Shallot & Chive or Cracked Black Pepper also work well.
Balsamic Vinegar – a flavor enhancer
Use aged balsamic vinegar for a deeper, slightly sweet taste. Cheaper options can be too acidic, overpowering the dish.
Fresh Thyme – the finishing touch
Fresh thyme adds brightness and a subtle herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Step-by-Step: how to make Boursin Cheese with Bacon Caramelized Onion
1. Cook the Bacon
Start with a hot skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Caramelize the Onions
Lower the heat to low, then add thinly sliced onions to the same pan. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, golden, and caramelized—this takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
3. Add Depth of Flavor
Stir in brown sugar and garlic powder, letting the onions cook for another 5 minutes. This step enhances the natural sweetness.
4. Deglaze with Balsamic Vinegar
Pour in balsamic vinegar and stir well. Let it cook for 1 minute, which helps blend the flavors together.
5. Finish with Crispy Bacon
Return the cooked bacon to the pan, mix everything, and season with freshly ground black pepper.
6. Assemble the Dish
Place the Boursin cheese on a serving plate, then spoon the warm bacon-onion mixture over the top.
7. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh thyme and serve immediately with bread, crackers, or veggies.
What to serve with this appetizer
- Best bread choices: toasted baguette, sourdough slices, or crostini for a crunchy contrast.
- Wine pairing: a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or a dry rosé balances the rich flavors beautifully.
- Low-carb option: serve with cucumber slices, celery, or bell pepper strips.
Boursin Cheese with Bacon Caramelized Onion
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to low, add onions, and sauté until caramelized, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Stir in brown sugar and garlic powder. Cook for 5 more minutes.
- Add balsamic vinegar, stir, and cook for 1 more minute.
- Return bacon to the pan, season with black pepper, and mix well.
- Place Boursin cheese on a serving plate. Pour the warm bacon-onion mixture over it.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately with bread or crackers.
