Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that will steal the spotlight at any gathering, you’ve come to the right place! These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not your average spuds. They’re creamy, flavorful, and topped with sweet, buttery caramelized onions. Imagine serving a bowl of these mashed potatoes at your next family dinner or cozy holiday gathering—everyone will be asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering on taste. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive occasion, these mashed potatoes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So grab your apron and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and herbs adds a rich depth of flavor that elevates traditional mashed potatoes.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and ingredients, you won’t need to be a chef to impress your family.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and savory taste—perfect for everyone at the table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these mashed potatoes in advance and reheat them, making meal planning a breeze.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy night in—these potatoes fit any occasion beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create these delicious Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Add Extra Veggies: Mix in some steamed broccoli or roasted garlic for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to change up the flavor profile.
• Creamy Twist: Instead of half & half or coconut milk, try using sour cream for an extra tangy kick.
• Cheesy Delight: Use different types of cheese such as goat cheese or cheddar for a unique twist.

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 may seem like a lot of onions, but trust me—it’s worth it! Caramelizing them slowly will bring out their natural sweetness and transform them into golden goodness.

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 them occasionally as they cook down into beautifully browned caramelized onions over about 40-50 minutes. This step is key; patience pays off when developing those rich flavors!

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While those onions are working their magic, let’s turn our attention to the Yukon Gold potatoes! Wash them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. I love leaving the skin on for added texture and fiber—it gives these mashed potatoes an extra hearty feel.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

Now it’s time to cook those chopped potatoes! Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and add in the chopped spuds. Allow them to cook for about 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. This will ensure your mashed potatoes are creamy without any lumps.

Step 5: Mash Away!

Once your potatoes are cooked through, drain them well and grab your potato masher. Mash them up until they’re nice and smooth. Then mix in the butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or your choice of coconut milk). Keep mashing until everything is combined perfectly!

Step 6: Combine with Onions

By now, those caramelized onions should be ready too! Remove half of them from the skillet and stir them into your mashed potato mixture along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. The cheesy goodness paired with sweet onions creates an unforgettable flavor combo.

Step 7: Serve With Style

Finally, transfer your fluffy mashed potatoes into a large serving bowl. Top with remaining caramelized onions, sprinkle with chopped chives, thyme, sage, and drizzle with melted butter if desired. Dig in and enjoy every bite!

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 ensure your dish turns out sensational!

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet: This helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the onions from burning while they caramelize. A good skillet will make achieving that deep, rich flavor much easier.

• Don’t rush the caramelization: Allowing the onions to slowly cook for 40-50 minutes truly brings out their natural sweetness. If you increase the heat, you might get burnt bits instead of golden brown deliciousness.

• Choose Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them ideal for mashing, giving you that perfect mouthfeel with every bite.

• Add warm liquids: When mixing in your butter and half & half (or coconut milk), ensure they’re warmed up first. This will help keep your potatoes fluffy and prevent them from becoming gummy.

• Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning to your liking! Everyone has different preferences when it comes to saltiness or creaminess, so feel free to tweak until it’s just right for you.

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes are not only a comfort food staple but can also be presented beautifully for any occasion. Here’s how to make them shine on your dinner table!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall flavor.
• Additional Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan on top right before serving adds an irresistible cheesy finish.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A touch of high-quality olive oil over the top gives a beautiful sheen and enhances the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, these crispy sprouts complement the creamy texture of mashed potatoes beautifully.
• Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with garlic, these green beans provide a lovely crunch that pairs perfectly with rich mashed potatoes.
• Savory Mushroom Gravy: A vegan mushroom gravy can bring an extra layer of flavor and moisture to your plate, making every bite even more satisfying.
• Herbed Quinoa Salad: This light side dish with fresh veggies adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty mashed potatoes, making it a balanced meal.

Now you’re all set to impress your guests (or yourself!) with these amazing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep, making your life easier on busy days or during festive gatherings. You can make them ahead of time and store them with just a few simple steps.

Storing Leftovers

• After serving, let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature.
• Transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When storing, consider separating the caramelized onions from the potatoes to keep their texture intact.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely.
• Spoon them into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of half & half or non-dairy milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short increments (about 1-2 minutes), stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes vegan?

Absolutely! Just substitute the butter with non-dairy butter and use dairy-free milk to achieve that creamy texture without any animal products.

How do I prevent my Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes from being too watery?

To avoid watery mashed potatoes, ensure you drain them well after boiling. Additionally, mashing them while they’re still hot can help achieve a better consistency.

What should I serve with Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

These delightful mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even as a hearty side for your favorite vegetarian dish!

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

Certainly! Feel free to experiment by adding garlic, different herbs like rosemary or parsley, or even some cream cheese for extra richness.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes as much as I do. They bring warmth and comfort to any meal—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations; I love hearing how everyone puts their own spin on this classic dish. Happy cooking!