Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, let me introduce you to the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This isn’t just any mashed potato recipe; it’s a delightful twist on a classic that will become a staple at your table. With the rich flavor of caramelized onions mingling with creamy potatoes, each bite is pure bliss. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You can have these comforting potatoes ready to serve in just over an hour and a half. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving or enjoying them with a weeknight roast, they’ll quickly become everyone’s favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The caramelized onions add a sweet depth that elevates traditional mashed potatoes into something extraordinary.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this dish in advance for stress-free entertaining.
• Comfort Food Classic: There’s nothing quite like creamy mashed potatoes to bring warmth to your meal.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these wholesome ingredients already in your pantry!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, you only need simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Roasted Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, toss in some roasted garlic when mashing the potatoes.
• Include Other Cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for another cheese like Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in a variety of fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for added freshness.
• Creamy Alternatives: Experiment with different types of dairy-free milk for unique textures and flavors.

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To begin making these mashed potatoes, peel the skin from the onions and slice them thinly. It may seem like a lot of onions, but trust me—they will shrink down as they cook!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat your skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in those sliced onions. Stir them occasionally as they slowly caramelize. This process takes about 40-50 minutes, but it’s worth every minute—the sweetness that develops will transform your dish!

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While your onions are cooking away, wash your Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. You don’t have to peel them unless you want to—keeping the skin on adds great texture and fiber.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil on the stove. Add your chopped potatoes and allow them to cook for about 20 minutes until fork-tender. This step ensures they’re soft enough for mashing.

Step 5: Mash It Up!

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them well and mash them in a large bowl. Then add in the butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Mash again until everything is smooth and creamy—this is where those delicious flavors start coming together!

Step 6: Combine with Caramelized Onions

When your onions are fully caramelized, remove them from heat and mix half of them into your mashed potato mixture along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is combined—this will create an unforgettable flavor base!

Step 7: Serve with Style

Transfer your heavenly mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Top with the remaining caramelized onions, sprinkle on chopped chives, thyme, sage, and drizzle with melted butter if desired. Now sit back and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect caramelized onion mashed potatoes is all about technique and a little love. Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Slice onions evenly: Cutting your onions into uniform slices ensures that they cook evenly, leading to perfectly caramelized pieces that blend beautifully with the potatoes.

• Low and slow for caramelization: Cooking the onions over low heat allows their natural sugars to develop gradually, giving you that deep, rich flavor without burning them.

• Use starchy potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because their creamy texture results in luxuriously smooth mashed potatoes.

• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage add an aromatic depth to the dish. They enhance flavors and bring a fresh element that complements the richness of the caramelized onions.

• Adjust creaminess to taste: Feel free to customize the creaminess of your mashed potatoes by adjusting the amount of half & half or coconut milk. This way, you can make them as rich or light as you prefer!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to serving these delicious mashed potatoes, presentation is key! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional chives adds a pop of color and freshness on top.
• Extra Parmesan: A generous grating of fresh Parmesan right before serving enhances flavor and gives a restaurant-quality touch.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil or Melted Butter: A light drizzle over the top not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra layer of richness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these crispy veggies are a perfect contrast to creamy mashed potatoes.
• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crunchy texture and bright flavor that complements the richness of the mash.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, this main dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Vegetable Gratin: A cheesy vegetable gratin adds a touch of elegance while balancing out the hearty nature of the potatoes.

With these serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your guests with your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy their comforting flavors without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container for maximum freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your mashed potatoes, place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if needed to restore creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you on your cooking journey!

Can I use other types of onions for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While yellow onions are great for caramelizing due to their sweetness, you can also experiment with red or sweet onions. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different types may caramelize at varying rates.

How do I make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with non-dairy butter and use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying!

Can I prepare Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can make these mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage tips mentioned above for best results.

What can I pair with Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes are versatile and complement a variety of dishes such as roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or hearty veggie stews. They’re perfect for any meal!

How do I ensure my mashed potatoes are creamy?

For creamy mashed potatoes, make sure not to over-mash them. Start with warm ingredients and add moisture gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen. The combination of creamy potatoes and sweet caramelized onions truly makes it special. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying during a cozy night at home. Enjoy making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences! Happy cooking!