Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that steals the show, you’ve come to the right place! My Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Loaded with buttery caramelized onions and fresh herbs, these mashed potatoes are creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings. Once you try them, I promise they’ll become your go-to recipe!

Nothing brings people together quite like a warm bowl of mashed potatoes. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into creating something truly special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and herbs elevates traditional mashed potatoes to a whole new level!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds—this dish is sure to please everyone.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these potatoes in advance, making your meal prep easier than ever!
• Wholesome Ingredients: With simple ingredients like Yukon Gold potatoes and fresh herbs, you can feel good about what you’re serving.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with the toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe features everything you need to create the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes—perfect for any gathering or cozy dinner at home.

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 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

For the Flavor Boost

• 1 Cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
• 1 Bunch Chives (thinly chopped)
• 2 Sprigs Fresh Thyme (stems removed)
• 3 Leaves Fresh Sage (chopped)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Extra Veggies: Mix in some roasted garlic or sautéed spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Try Different Cheeses: Swap out Parmesan for cheddar or feta cheese for a unique twist!
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
• Herb Alternatives: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for varied flavor profiles.

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 might look like a lot of onions, but don’t worry; they will shrink down as they cook. Sautéing the onions slowly brings out their natural sweetness, which is key to flavoring your mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in those sliced onions. Stir occasionally until they turn golden brown and caramelized—this process takes about 40-50 minutes. Be patient; those beautiful flavors are worth the wait!

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While your onions are caramelizing, let’s focus on the Yukon Gold potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. You can leave the skin on for added texture and fiber if you’d like! Now heat a pot of water on the stove until it reaches a rolling boil.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Once boiling, add in your chopped potatoes and let them cook for about 20 minutes until fork-tender. Cooking them well ensures that they’ll mash beautifully later on.

Step 5: Mash It Up!

Drain the water from your pot once the potatoes are tender. Grab your potato masher (or a fork!) and mash away! Add in your butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Mash again until everything is combined and smooth—this creamy texture is what we’re after!

Step 6: Combine Flavors

Now that your onions are perfectly caramelized, remove them from heat and add half of them into your mashed potatoes along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir well so all those delicious flavors meld together.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Transfer your mashed potatoes into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining caramelized onions along with chopped chives, thyme, sage, and even more melted butter if you fancy it! Serve warm—it’s time to enjoy every comforting bite of these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Making these mashed potatoes truly the best ever is all about technique and a few insider tips. Here are some helpful hints to elevate your dish:

• Use a heavy-bottomed pan – A skillet with good heat retention will help caramelize the onions evenly without burning them, ensuring that they develop that rich, sweet flavor.

• Patience is key – Don’t rush the caramelization process! Cooking the onions over low to medium heat for 40-50 minutes allows their natural sugars to develop fully, resulting in a deeper flavor.

• Choose Yukon Gold potatoes – These potatoes have a naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor that make them perfect for mashing. Their waxy nature helps hold moisture while providing excellent taste.

• Warm your dairy ingredients – Adding cold butter or milk can cool down your potatoes and make them gummy. Warm your half & half or dairy-free milk before mixing it in to keep everything fluffy and smooth.

• Customize your herbs – While this recipe calls for thyme and sage, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to suit your taste preferences!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve them at your next gathering or family dinner.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle some extra chives or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cracked Black Pepper – A dash of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Toasted Nuts – Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender make a colorful, nutritious complement.

• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers – Marinated and grilled skewers offer a protein-packed option that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the potatoes.

• Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – A light salad adds freshness and balance to the meal. The acidity from the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the mashed potatoes perfectly.

• Stuffed Bell Peppers – These can be filled with quinoa, beans, and veggies for a satisfying plant-based side that rounds out your meal beautifully.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with a comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit at any table! Enjoy every bite of these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. You can easily whip up a batch in advance, so they’re ready to serve when you are!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer them into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool completely.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or broth if needed for creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just reheat before enjoying!

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese for the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

If you want to skip the Parmesan cheese, feel free to substitute it with nutritional yeast for a similar flavor or use your favorite plant-based cheese alternative.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

While Yukon Gold potatoes provide a lovely creamy texture, you can experiment with other varieties like Russets or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that each type may yield slightly different results.

Is there a dairy-free option for these mashed potatoes?

Yes! Simply replace the butter with non-dairy butter and use full-fat coconut milk or any dairy-free milk alternative instead of half & half.

How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being gummy?

To avoid gummy mashed potatoes, be sure not to over-mash them. Mix just until combined after adding your ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They truly bring comfort and joy to any meal with their rich flavors and creamy texture. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!