Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that steals the show, then you’ve come to the right place! My Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. They bring together buttery caramelized onions and fresh herbs, making them a standout addition to any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

What makes these mashed potatoes so special is not just the combination of flavors but also their warm and inviting nature. They’re perfect for cozy get-togethers or holiday feasts. Trust me, once you serve these up, they’ll become a beloved staple at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The sweet, caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that elevates traditional mashed potatoes.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the caramelized onions in advance, making dinner prep a breeze.
• Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or dairy alternatives!
• Golden Comfort Food: With every bite, you’ll experience that warm comfort only mashed potatoes can provide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for these amazing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that rich flavor and creamy texture we all love.

For the Caramelized Onions

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 Yellow Onions (sliced thin and evenly)

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 2 Pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes (washed)
• 4 Tablespoons Salted Butter (you can use non-dairy butter, if preferred)
• 3/4 Cup Half & Half or Full-Fat Coconut Milk or Dairy-Free Milk
• 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 Cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
• 1 Bunch Chives (thinly chopped)
• 2 Sprigs Fresh Thyme (stems removed)
• 3 Leaves Fresh Sage (chopped)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or what suits your taste buds.

• Add some veggies: Toss in roasted garlic or steamed cauliflower for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Try using sharp cheddar or vegan cheese for a different twist.
• Experiment with herbs: Swap in rosemary or dill instead of thyme and sage for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it creamy without dairy: Use unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream instead of dairy products for a lighter version.

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To kick things off, we need to focus on our star ingredient: the onions! Peel their skins away and slice them thinly. It might seem like a lot of onions at first, but trust me—they will shrink as they cook down. This step is crucial because caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, creating that rich flavor we crave.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat your skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in those sliced onions. Stir occasionally while they cook down until they turn golden brown and caramelized—this process takes about 40-50 minutes. Patience is key here! The deeper color means more flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While those delicious onions are busy caramelizing, let’s turn our attention to the potatoes. Start by washing them thoroughly, then chop them into small pieces. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrition if you prefer!

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

Next up is cooking those chopped potatoes. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil before adding in your diced Yukon Golds. Let them cook for about 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. This ensures that our mashed potatoes will be fluffy and smooth.

Step 5: Mash It Up

Once your potatoes are cooked through, drain them well before mashing them in a large bowl. In goes the salted butter along with kosher salt and half & half (or your choice of non-dairy milk). Give it another good mash until everything is combined beautifully.

Step 6: Add the Flavor Boosters

Now it’s time to incorporate those sweet caramelized onions! Take half of them from your skillet and mix them into the mashed potatoes along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds an incredible depth of flavor!

Step 7: Serve It Up

Transfer your beautifully creamy mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Top with the remaining caramelized onions along with chopped chives, thyme, sage, and a drizzle of melted butter if desired. And there you have it—the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes! Ready to enjoy with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect mashed potatoes takes a little patience and love, but trust me, these tips will help you achieve creamy, flavorful results every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold up well during cooking and provide the perfect base for this dish.

• Caramelize the onions slowly: Take your time with the onions! Cooking them on medium heat allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in rich, sweet caramelization that enhances the overall flavor of your mashed potatoes.

• Use warm ingredients: Incorporating warm butter and dairy (or dairy-free alternatives) into the mashed potatoes helps maintain a smooth consistency. Cold ingredients can make your potatoes dense or gummy.

• Don’t over-mash: For a fluffy texture, mash just until combined. Over-mashing can lead to gummy potatoes due to the release of excess starch.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to customize your herb blend! Fresh herbs add brightness and complexity; try adding rosemary or parsley for a different twist.

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a showstopper! With a few simple touches, you can elevate your presentation and make them truly memorable at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or parsley adds color and freshness that beautifully complements the rich flavors.
• Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: For those who enjoy tangy flavors, a light sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top adds an extra layer of creaminess.
• Extra Caramelized Onions: A generous topping of additional caramelized onions makes for an eye-catching presentation as well as enhanced flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy little gems add crunch and earthy flavors that contrast nicely with the creamy mashed potatoes.
• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a fresh and vibrant side that balances out the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Herb-Crusted Cauliflower: This roasted dish offers a delightful textural contrast while complementing the flavors of thyme and sage found in the mashed potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers: Perfect protein options that work well alongside these creamy mashed potatoes, whether you choose succulent chicken or marinated tofu for a plant-based option.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’ll be ready to impress your family and friends with your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and have a delightful side dish ready to go for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if necessary to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until warmed through, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this comforting recipe!

Can I make the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these mashed potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them gently before serving.

What can I use instead of dairy in Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

You can substitute regular butter with non-dairy butter and replace half & half with full-fat coconut milk or any plant-based milk of your choice for a delicious dairy-free version.

How do I ensure my onions are perfectly caramelized?

For perfectly caramelized onions, cook them slowly on medium heat, stirring occasionally, and be patient—this process takes about 40-50 minutes. The key is low and slow!

Can I add other herbs to the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs like rosemary or parsley to enhance the flavor profile of your mashed potatoes.

Can I use another type of potato for this recipe?

While Yukon Gold potatoes provide a creamy texture, you can use other varieties like Russet or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that they may alter the final texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes a try! They bring a unique twist to a classic dish, making your meals more memorable. With their creamy texture and delightful flavors from caramelized onions, they’re bound to be a hit at your table. Enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, and happy cooking!