Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, you’ve come to the right place! These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic dish. With creamy Yukon Gold potatoes and sweet, buttery caramelized onions, this recipe will take your mashed potatoes to a whole new level. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes are sure to steal the show.

What makes these mashed potatoes so special is the depth of flavor from the caramelized onions and fresh herbs. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also warms your heart. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll find yourself making them for every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness of onions, making each bite heavenly.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these potatoes in advance and reheat them, saving time on busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any meal—whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual weeknight feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. You might even have some of these in your pantry already!

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 Yellow Onions (sliced thin and evenly)
• 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 and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some roasted garlic or sautéed spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Creamy Alternatives: Instead of cream, try using cashew cream for a nutty twist!
• Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese or vegan cheese if you’re looking for something different.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or dill for unique flavors that complement the dish.

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To make these mashed potatoes, start by peeling the skin from the onions and slicing them thinly. It may seem like a lot of onions, but trust me—it’s worth it! Caramelizing them will create a rich sweetness that elevates the entire dish.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add in your olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in those sliced onions. Stir occasionally and let them cook until they’re golden brown and fragrant—this should take about 40-50 minutes. This slow cooking helps bring out their natural sugars, creating that delicious caramelization we love.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While your onions are getting all caramelized and lovely, wash and chop your Yukon Gold potatoes into small pieces—no need to peel! Leaving the skin on adds texture and fiber. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, then add in those chopped potatoes. Let them cook for about 20 minutes until they’re fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash Those Potatoes

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain off any excess water before mashing them up! Add in your butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk) for extra creaminess. Keep mashing until everything is well combined and smooth—this is where all that love goes into your dish!

Step 5: Combine Onions with Potatoes

Now that your onions are perfectly caramelized, remove half of them from the skillet and stir them into the mash along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This step adds an incredible depth of flavor; you’ll be tempted to sneak bites right from the bowl!

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer your creamy mashed potatoes to a large serving bowl and top with those remaining caramelized onions. Sprinkle over chopped chives, thyme, sage, and drizzle with melted butter if you like! Now it’s ready to be served hot at any table—enjoy each comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect caramelized onion mashed potatoes is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality butter can make a world of difference in flavor. They add depth and richness that enhance the overall experience of your mashed potatoes.

• Don’t rush the onions: Allowing the onions to caramelize slowly over medium heat is key to developing their natural sweetness. This patience pays off with a richer, more complex flavor profile.

• Adjust creaminess to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of half & half or coconut milk based on your preference for creaminess. If you like a thicker mash, use less; if you love it creamy, add more!

• Season as you go: Taste your potatoes after mashing them with butter and salt. Adjust the seasoning gradually to ensure they’re perfectly flavored before serving.

• Let them rest: After mixing in all the ingredients, let your mashed potatoes sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps all flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Presenting your mashed potatoes in an appealing way can truly enhance the dining experience. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the potatoes.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds flavor but also gives a nice visual contrast against the creamy potatoes.
• Sour cream or dairy-free alternative: A dollop on top provides a tangy contrast that balances out the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy, caramelized sprouts provide a wonderful texture contrast and earthy flavor that pairs excellently with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a bright, crunchy side that’s delicious alongside buttery mashed potatoes.
• Grilled asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus brings a fresh, vibrant element to your meal, balancing out the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Cauliflower gratin: A cheesy cauliflower gratin is an indulgent side that complements the flavors of caramelized onion while providing additional comfort food vibes.

Now that you’re armed with tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress at your next dinner party or holiday gathering with these 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, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! With their rich flavors and comforting texture, you can enjoy them anytime by following these simple storage tips.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or butter to maintain creaminess.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common inquiries that might help!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare these mashed potatoes up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese in the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute that adds a cheesy flavor. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.

How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from becoming gummy?

To avoid gummy mashed potatoes, make sure not to overwork them when mashing. Gently mash until just combined rather than whipping them too vigorously.

Can I use other types of onions for this recipe?

Yes! While yellow onions are traditional for caramelizing, feel free to experiment with sweet onions or red onions for different flavor profiles.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes! They’re not just a side dish; they bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes will surely impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every creamy bite and don’t forget to share your experience with me!