Last weekend, Joshua and I wanted a fun new topping to dress up our grilled burgers.  We had a few slices of leftover bacon, so I came up with this recipe.  Besides using it for a burger topping, it also makes a great dip for chips and was delicious dolloped on top of sauteed zucchini as well.  It's equally great served warm or cold!

So good- even the 2 year old liked it!

Maple Bacon Caramelized Onion Dip

• 1 T. bacon fat (or butter)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2-4 slices cooked pasture-raised bacon, diced
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 1 T. real Wisconsin maple syrup
• 1 T. apple cider vinegar
• 3 oz cream cheese
• 3 oz sour cream (6 Tablespoons)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese

Heat bacon fat in a skillet.  Cook onions over medium low heat until golden brown and caramelized, stirring often.  I find that covering them with a lid helps them to cook evenly without burning.  

Add diced bacon and garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Add maple syrup and apple cider vinegar and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated.

In a bowl, combine the cooked onion mixture with the rest of the ingredients.

Serve with chips, spread on burgers, or dollop on veggies.