Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that will steal the show at any gathering, look no further than my Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is a family favorite, and for good reason! The combination of creamy mashed potatoes with sweet, buttery caramelized onions creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner, a cozy family meal, or just a busy weeknight, these mashed potatoes will be the star of your table.

What sets this recipe apart is not only the rich flavors but also the simple ingredients. It’s all about making something extraordinary from everyday staples. Trust me, once you try these mashed potatoes, you’ll never want to go back to plain old mashed potatoes again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory caramelized onions elevate the classic mashed potato flavor to new heights.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious side dish that impresses everyone.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy comfort food that pairs well with almost any main course.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them when ready to serve—perfect for busy days!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe using what you have on hand while keeping it delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need some simple and 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Add More Veggies: Incorporate roasted garlic or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of taste.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different herbal twist.
• Cheese Change-Up: Try adding goat cheese or cheddar instead of parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
• Creaminess Factor: For even creamier mashed potatoes, replace half & half with cream cheese or sour cream.

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To start making these mashed potatoes, peel the skin from your yellow onions and slice them thinly. It may look like a lot of onions at first, but they will shrink down as they cook. Caramelizing them slowly over medium heat brings out their sweetness and adds depth to your dish.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in those sliced onions. Stir occasionally and let them cook until they’re golden brown and caramelized—this usually takes about 40-50 minutes. The longer you let them cook, the sweeter they become!

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While your onions are working their magic, wash your Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. Chop them into small pieces; there’s no need to peel unless that’s your preference! Next, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and add in your chopped potatoes. Cook for about 20 minutes until they’re fork-tender. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy texture.

Step 4: Mash Those Potatoes

Once your potatoes are cooked through, drain them well and transfer them back into the pot. Use a potato masher or fork to mash them until smooth. This is where you’ll add in the salted butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Mix everything together until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Onions and Cheese

When your onions are beautifully caramelized, set aside half of them for topping later. Fold the remaining onions into your mashed potatoes along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Transfer your creamy onion-infused mashed potatoes to a large bowl. Top with the reserved caramelized onions, sprinkle on some chopped chives, thyme, sage, and drizzle melted butter on top before serving. Enjoy this heartwarming side dish that’s sure to make everyone smile!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the ultimate caramelized onion mashed potatoes is a rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a perfect dish!

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they’re creamy and buttery, which enhances the overall texture of your mashed potatoes.

• Be patient with onions: Caramelizing onions takes time. Allow them to cook slowly over medium heat to develop their natural sweetness. Rushing this step can result in burnt or unevenly cooked onions.

• Use room temperature ingredients: If you let your butter and dairy alternatives come to room temperature before mixing them in, they will blend more seamlessly into the hot potatoes, resulting in a creamier texture.

• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage add depth to the flavor profile. They complement the sweetness of the caramelized onions perfectly and brighten up the dish.

• Taste as you go: Always sample your mashed potatoes before serving. This allows you to adjust seasoning or add extra ingredients like more cheese if desired, ensuring every bite is delicious!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes not only taste divine but also look lovely when served right! Here are some delightful ideas on how to present this dish at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Extra caramelized onions: A sprinkle of additional caramelized onions on top gives a beautiful appearance and adds even more flavor.
• Chopped fresh herbs: A handful of freshly chopped chives or parsley sprinkled on top adds color and a fresh touch that brightens up the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes can provide a colorful contrast and balance out the meal with their earthy flavors.

• Grilled Chicken or Tofu Skewers: Marinated grilled chicken or tofu skewers serve as a great protein addition. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy mashed potatoes.

• Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A light green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.

• Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, serve some warm garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover buttery goodness from your plate!

Enjoy making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones—they’re bound to become a favorite at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep! They hold up well in the fridge, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the mashed potatoes into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool completely.
• Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (removing as much air as possible).
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen mashed potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of milk or broth and warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute non-dairy butter and your favorite plant-based milk to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

What makes these the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

The combination of creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, rich caramelized onions, and fresh herbs elevates these mashed potatoes to another level of deliciousness!

How do I ensure my onions are perfectly caramelized?

Patience is key! Cook them slowly over medium heat while stirring occasionally. This allows their natural sugars to develop and gives you that sweet, rich flavor.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Russets or red potatoes if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes as much as I do! They are not only a delightful addition to any meal but also a comforting reminder of home-cooked goodness. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, these mashed potatoes will surely bring smiles to your table. Happy cooking!