Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your mashed potatoes, you’ve come to the right place! Friends, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite comfort food: the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. They are not just any mashed potatoes; they are creamy, dreamy, and bursting with flavor thanks to the sweet caramelized onions that adorn them. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress everyone at the table.

I love this recipe because it combines simple ingredients into something truly special. The savory onions and rich herbs create a delightful harmony that makes each bite irresistible. Plus, they pair perfectly with roasted meats or can simply be enjoyed on their own as a cozy side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, savory flavor: The caramelized onions add depth and sweetness that take these mashed potatoes to another level.
• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This version is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the potatoes in advance, making it perfect for busy days or gatherings.
• Versatile side dish: Pair them with anything from grilled veggies to your favorite protein for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delicious Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that comforting flavor 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, allowing you to customize it to your taste! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add more herbs: Boost the flavor by including fresh rosemary or parsley for an extra pop of freshness.
• Make it cheesy: Mix in different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist on creaminess.
• Try different potatoes: Swap Yukon Gold for red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a completely different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of garlic powder or freshly minced garlic while mashing for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To make these mashed potatoes, start by preparing the onions. Peel the skin from the onions and thinly slice them. It may seem like a lot of onions at first, but trust me—they will shrink down beautifully as they caramelize!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Once the onions are ready, heat a skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. When the oil is hot, toss in those sliced onions. Stir them occasionally until they become browned and caramelized—this should take about 40-50 minutes. This slow cooking process brings out their natural sweetness, which is what makes these mashed potatoes so special!

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While those lovely onions are cooking away, let’s get our potatoes ready. Wash them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces—there’s no need to peel unless you prefer it that way! Leaving the skin on adds texture and fiber.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add in your chopped Yukon Gold potatoes. Cook them for about 20 minutes until they’re fork-tender. This step ensures your mashed potatoes will be soft and creamy!

Step 5: Mash It Up!

Once your potatoes are cooked through, drain any excess water from the pot and start mashing! Add in the salted butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Mash again until everything is smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Mix in Caramelized Onions and Cheese

When those glorious onions have finished caramelizing, remove them from heat and stir half of them into your mashed potato mixture along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. This creates an incredible blend of flavors!

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Finally, transfer your fluffy mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter before digging in! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes is a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can elevate your dish even further!

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet: This ensures even heat distribution while caramelizing the onions, preventing them from burning and allowing for a rich, deep flavor.

• Patience is key: Don’t rush the caramelization process! Allowing the onions to cook slowly over medium heat brings out their natural sweetness and depth, resulting in a more flavorful mash.

• Season your potatoes well: Adding salt to the boiling water when cooking your potatoes helps enhance their natural flavor. It’s an essential step that many overlook!

• Experiment with different herbs: While chives, thyme, and sage are wonderful choices, feel free to try other herbs like rosemary or parsley to customize the flavor profile of your mashed potatoes.

• Make it ahead of time: These mashed potatoes can be made in advance and reheated before serving. Just add a splash of milk or broth when reheating for that freshly-made taste!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Presenting your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes beautifully can make all the difference at your dinner table. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving style!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Adding extra chives or parsley on top not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of cracked black pepper enhances both the visual appeal and the flavor profile of the dish.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving offers richness and an enticing shine.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a colorful and nutritious complement to your creamy potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers: Marinated and grilled skewers add protein to your meal while balancing out the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: These vibrant peppers filled with quinoa, beans, and spices provide both texture and nutrition alongside your comfort food classic.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes will shine as the star of any meal! Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them later, ensuring that your dinner is both delicious and stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, check for any excess moisture and adjust accordingly.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the mashed potatoes cool down entirely.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if they seem dry.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes:

Can I use other types of onions for this recipe?

Absolutely! While yellow onions are classic for caramelizing due to their sweetness, you can experiment with red or sweet onions for a different flavor profile.

How do I get my mashed potatoes extra creamy?

For the best ever caramelized onion mashed potatoes, ensure you mash them while they’re still warm. Adding warm half & half or dairy-free milk will help achieve that creamy texture!

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with non-dairy butter and use a plant-based milk alternative. You can also omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

Is it possible to prepare these mashed potatoes in advance?

Definitely! These mashed potatoes store well in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above for perfect reheating later on.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes! They’re not just a side dish; they’re an experience filled with flavor and warmth. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy bite!