Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further than my Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This recipe takes classic mashed potatoes to new heights with the addition of golden, buttery caramelized onions. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to serve them at every family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. They are not only delicious but also incredibly comforting—perfect for making any occasion feel a little more special.

The beauty of these mashed potatoes lies in their simplicity and flavor. The rich taste of caramelized onions adds depth that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or just a regular Tuesday night, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without breaking a sweat.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves creamy mashed potatoes! The sweet caramelized onions make them even more appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare them in advance and reheat when needed, making meal prep a breeze.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of herbs and cheese gives these potatoes an irresistible flavor that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Side Dish: These potatoes pair beautifully with almost any main course, from roasted veggies to hearty plant-based proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses wholesome items that you likely already have on hand. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect mash.

• 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

One of the best things about mashed potatoes is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile that complements the caramelized onions beautifully.
• Creamier Option: Substitute sour cream for half of the half & half for an extra creamy texture.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Swap out Parmesan for crumbled feta or goat cheese to give it a tangy twist.
• Spice it Up: For those who love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes while mashing!

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To make these mashed potatoes, start by peeling and thinly slicing the onions. It may seem like a lot at first, but don’t worry—they cook down beautifully. Caramelizing these onions is key as their sweetness will bring so much flavor to your finished dish!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. Once hot, toss in those sliced onions. Stir occasionally as they cook down for about 40-50 minutes until they’re browned and wonderfully fragrant. This slow cooking process brings out their natural sugars and creates that deep flavor we all love.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the onions are caramelizing, let’s turn our attention to the potatoes! Wash them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces—there’s no need to peel unless you prefer them that way. Leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients!

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and carefully add your chopped potatoes. Let them cook for about 20 minutes until fork tender. Cooking them until soft is essential because it makes mashing much easier!

Step 5: Mash It Up

Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them well before mashing them in the pot. Adding the butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk) now will create that creamy base we’re aiming for. Keep mashing until everything is smoothly combined; this is where all those flavors come together.

Step 6: Mix in the Onions and Cheese

When your onions are perfectly caramelized, remove half of them from the skillet and fold them into your mashed potato mixture along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir gently but thoroughly so each bite has that delicious onion flavor.

Step 7: Serve It All Up

Transfer your fluffy mashed potatoes into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining caramelized onions, sprinkle with chives, thyme, sage, and drizzle some melted butter on top if you like! Your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are ready to be devoured—serve warm and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect creamy mashed potatoes with caramelized onions is easier than you think, especially with these handy tips!

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them ideal for mashing. They hold their shape well and provide the perfect base for your dish.

• Don’t Rush the Onions: Caramelizing onions takes time—about 40-50 minutes—but this slow cooking process develops their natural sweetness and deep flavor. Patience is key to achieving that rich, golden color!

• Mash While Warm: For the best texture, mash your potatoes while they are still warm. This ensures they remain fluffy and absorb the butter and cream evenly.

• Customize Your Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the creaminess of your mashed potatoes by using more or less half & half or coconut milk according to your preference. This lets you control both the flavor and texture to suit your taste.

• Experiment with Herbs: While this recipe calls for chives, thyme, and sage, don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley to personalize the flavor profile of your mashed potatoes!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Serving these mashed potatoes beautifully can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the flavors.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated parmesan on top offers an additional cheesy kick that complements the caramelized onions perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and lightly seasoned, roasted Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic until tender yet crisp, green beans introduce a savory contrast that balances the richness of the potatoes.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken: A simple herb-crusted chicken provides protein while harmonizing beautifully with the flavors in your mashed potatoes.
• Fall Salad: A mixed greens salad featuring seasonal ingredients like apples, walnuts, and goat cheese dressed in a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing complement to your hearty side dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes will not only taste incredible but also impress anyone who sits at your table! Enjoy sharing this comforting classic at family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare them ahead of time and enjoy their rich flavors whenever you need.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
• Allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label the containers with the date for future reference.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; make sure to squeeze out excess air from bags.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen potatoes overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
• Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess if needed.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can easily substitute non-dairy butter and use coconut milk or any dairy-free milk alternative instead of half & half.

How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions for my mashed potatoes?

To get that rich flavor, cook your sliced onions slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and sweetly fragrant—this usually takes around 40-50 minutes.

What type of potatoes work best for the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but you can also use Russet potatoes if preferred.

Can I add other ingredients to my mashed potatoes?

Definitely! Feel free to customize with additional herbs, roasted garlic, or even different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.

How do I keep my mashed potatoes from getting gummy?

Be careful not to overwork the potatoes when mashing. Use a gentle hand and stop as soon as everything is blended together smoothly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes! They bring warmth and comfort to any meal and are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every creamy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how they turned out for you!