Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the show, then let me introduce you to my Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This creamy delight is not your typical mashed potato recipe; it’s infused with sweet, buttery caramelized onions and fresh herbs that elevate it to a whole new level. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these mashed potatoes will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.

There’s something so comforting about mashed potatoes, especially when they’re rich and flavorful like this version. Whether you’re serving them alongside roasted chicken or taking them to a holiday potluck, this dish will impress everyone. Trust me, once you try these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: The caramelized onions add an incredible depth of flavor that takes classic mashed potatoes to the next level.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and savory taste—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Option: These mashed potatoes can be prepared in advance, making them a great option for meal prep or holiday feasts.
• Versatile Flavor: Pair them with almost any main dish, and watch how they complement your meal beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that everything needed for these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes is easy to source and full of flavor.

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
• 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 mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some steamed cauliflower or garlic for an added twist and nutrition boost.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute the parmesan cheese with a nut-based cheese and use non-dairy milk for a completely vegan option.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of thyme and sage for unique flavors.
• Cheesy Delight: For extra cheesiness, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving!

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by peeling the onions and slicing them thinly. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot; they will shrink down significantly as they cook. Sautéing these onions slowly allows their natural sugars to caramelize, creating sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the sliced onions. Stir occasionally until they are nicely browned and caramelized—this usually takes about 40-50 minutes. The patience here pays off with rich flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While your onions are getting all lovely in the skillet, it’s time to prepare the Yukon Gold potatoes! Wash them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. Leaving the skin on adds great texture and fiber!

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently add in your chopped potatoes and allow them to cook for around 20 minutes until fork-tender. This step ensures that your mashed potatoes are creamy rather than gluey!

Step 5: Mash Those Potatoes

Once cooked, drain the water from the pot. Take out your masher (or even a fork!) and mash those potatoes until smooth. This is where we make them fluffy!

Step 6: Mix It Up!

Now it’s time to add in your butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Mash again until everything is fully combined—this creates that dreamy consistency we all love.

Step 7: Combine Onions & Cheese

With your onions perfectly caramelized after being removed from heat, stir half of them into your potato mixture along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mixing these flavors together makes each bite irresistible!

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Finally, transfer those delicious mashed potatoes into a serving bowl. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and maybe even drizzle some melted butter over the top if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect mashed potatoes with caramelized onions is all about technique and patience! Here are some tips to help you achieve that creamy, flavorful finish.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are naturally creamy and buttery, making them ideal for mashing. They have a great texture that holds up well when mixed with other ingredients.

• Be Patient While Caramelizing Onions: Allowing your onions to cook slowly over medium heat will develop their natural sweetness and deep flavor. Rushing this process might lead to burnt or unevenly cooked onions, which can affect the overall taste of your dish.

• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter mash, feel free to use less half & half or coconut milk. You can always add more liquid gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

• Mix in Fresh Herbs at the End: Adding fresh herbs like chives, thyme, and sage right before serving preserves their vibrant flavor and color. This little trick makes your mashed potatoes look and taste even fresher!

• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a different profile. Just remember to use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes not only taste divine but also present beautifully on any table. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or additional chives adds color and freshness to your dish.
• Drizzled Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavors and adds an appealing sheen.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: These give a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness, making them a perfect complement to rich mashed potatoes.

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: Simple grilled proteins seasoned with herbs can balance the richness of the mashed potatoes while keeping your meal light.

• Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast in flavors and textures. Consider adding sliced apples or nuts for extra crunch!

• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed greens add vibrant color and nutrients to your plate while providing a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite of these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, and easily reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy. Here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Squeeze out excess air and seal tightly.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave on medium power, stirring every minute until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other types of potatoes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes give a creamy texture, you can also use Russet or Red potatoes. Each will offer a slightly different flavor and texture that you might enjoy.

How do I make vegan Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with non-dairy butter and replace the half & half with full-fat coconut milk or any dairy-free milk of your choice. The result will still be rich and delicious!

How long does it take to caramelize onions for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Caramelizing onions typically takes about 40-50 minutes over medium heat. Patience is key; slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness!

Can I add more herbs to Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or parsley. Just be sure not to overpower the delicate flavors of the caramelized onions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes for your family and friends. This recipe is not only comforting but also elevates your regular mashed potatoes into something truly special. Enjoy making this dish, sharing it around your table, and creating wonderful memories together. Happy cooking!