Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will impress your family and friends, you’ve come to the right place! These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not just any mashed potatoes; they are rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The sweet caramelized onions add a delightful twist that elevates them to a whole new level. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight meal or preparing for a festive gathering, these mashed potatoes will surely be a hit at your dinner table.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity and the love that goes into each step. You’ll find that it’s easy to prepare, yet the flavors are complex enough to wow everyone who tastes them. Plus, they pair beautifully with so many main dishes—from roasted vegetables to hearty casseroles!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Upgrade: The caramelized onions create a sweet and savory depth that transforms classic mashed potatoes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this creamy comfort food—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the potatoes in advance, then simply reheat before serving. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
• Versatile Side Dish: These mashed potatoes complement almost any meal, from casual dinners to elegant feasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are made with simple and wholesome ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Let’s gather everything you need!

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 Yellow Onions (sliced thin and evenly)
• 2 Pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes (washed)
• 4 Tablespoons Salted Butter (or non-dairy butter)
• 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 quite flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations!

• Add Some Spice: For a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the onions.
• Cheesy Delight: Swap the parmesan for your favorite cheese like gouda or cheddar for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for varied tastes.
• Creamy Alternative: Use sour cream instead of half & half for a tangy twist on creaminess.

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 thinly slicing them. It may look like a lot of onions, but trust me—they will shrink down beautifully as they caramelize!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil once it’s hot. Add your sliced onions and stir them occasionally. This step takes time—about 40-50 minutes—but it’s worth it! The slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness and transforms them into golden-brown perfection.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While those onions are working their magic, let’s prepare our Yukon Gold potatoes! Wash them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. No need to peel unless you want to—it adds great texture!

Step 4: Boil Until Tender

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and toss in your chopped potatoes. Cook them for about 20 minutes until fork-tender. This ensures they mash easily and blend smoothly.

Step 5: Mash Those Potatoes

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them well and get mashing! Add in the salted butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Use your masher until everything is fully combined—smoothness is key here!

Step 6: Mix in Caramelized Onions & Cheese

When your onions are perfectly caramelized, remove half of them from the skillet and mix into your mashed potatoes along with the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

Step 7: Final Touches

Transfer your deliciously creamy mashed potatoes into a large bowl. Top with the remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect caramelized onion mashed potatoes is all about technique and patience, so here are some tips to make your dish shine!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. They hold up well when cooked and provide a deliciously smooth mashed potato base.
• Low and slow for onions: Caramelizing onions takes time—don’t rush it! Cooking them slowly allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in that rich, sweet flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
• Use room temperature ingredients: For the best results, let your butter and milk come to room temperature before adding them to the potatoes. This ensures a silky texture and helps everything blend harmoniously.
• Don’t skimp on seasoning: Properly seasoning your mashed potatoes is key. Taste as you go, adjusting the salt to enhance the flavors of both the potatoes and caramelized onions.
• Mix it up gently: When combining your ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Gentle folding will keep your mashed potatoes light and fluffy rather than dense and gummy.

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Serving these delicious mashed potatoes can be just as important as making them! A beautiful presentation can elevate your dish even more.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle a mix of fresh chives, thyme, or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: These can add a delightful crunch and nutty taste that complements the creaminess of the mashed potatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots make a colorful and nutritious pairing that balances well with the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of mashed potatoes.
• Grilled Chicken or Tofu: A simple protein option like grilled chicken or marinated tofu can round out your meal while keeping it light and healthy.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a bright, zesty complement that enhances your plate visually and flavorfully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress everyone at your next gathering with your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also hold up well in the fridge and freezer, making them a great option for busy weeks or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool down to room temperature before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to stir the potatoes well before serving again for even distribution of flavors.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality.
• For easier reheating, consider freezing in single-serving portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place them in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth as needed to restore creaminess.
• Stir frequently until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious mashed potatoes.

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

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

What can I substitute for butter in the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

You can use non-dairy butter or any plant-based spread that melts well. This will still give you that creamy texture without using traditional butter.

How do I make my mashed potatoes creamy?

To achieve creamy mashed potatoes, ensure you mash them thoroughly and add enough liquid (like half & half or coconut milk). You can also try using a potato ricer for an extra smooth finish.

Can I add other toppings to my Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like roasted garlic, shredded cheese, or even crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They are truly special with their rich flavor from caramelized onions and fresh herbs. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or cozy weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress. Happy cooking!