Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There’s nothing quite like the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes to elevate your meal. This recipe takes classic mashed potatoes and transforms them into a rich, flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. With creamy texture, buttery caramelized onions, and aromatic herbs, these mashed potatoes will be the star of your Thanksgiving table or any family gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The caramelized onions add a depth of sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes.
• Versatile Side Dish: These mashed potatoes pair well with chicken, beef, or lamb, making them a great addition to various meals.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without breaking a sweat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, these potatoes are always a hit.
• Crowd Pleaser: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! Your guests will rave about this version.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Potato masher
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for caramelizing onions evenly and achieving that perfect golden color.
• Pot: Used for boiling the potatoes until they’re tender; choosing a large pot ensures even cooking.
• Potato masher: A must-have for creating that creamy texture in your mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• 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)

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by peeling the skin from the onions and thinly slicing them. It may seem like a lot of onions, but they will shrink as they cook.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, add sliced onions.
3. Stir occasionally until browned and caramelized—this will take about 40-50 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. While the onions are cooking, wash and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into small pieces. Leaving the skin on adds texture!
2. Boil water in a large pot. When it reaches a rolling boil, add the chopped potatoes.
3. Cook for about 20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

1. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Add butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Mash until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Flavors

1. Once your onions are caramelized, remove half and set aside.
2. Add the remaining onions to your mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.
3. Stir well to incorporate everything.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your mashed potatoes into a large bowl. Top with reserved caramelized onions, chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter before serving. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not just a side dish; they can elevate any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious recipe.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair these mashed potatoes with juicy grilled chicken for a satisfying and hearty meal.

As a Base for Meatloaf

• Use the mashed potatoes as a creamy base under your favorite meatloaf recipe, adding flavor and texture.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Serve the mashed potatoes alongside a medley of steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional grated cheese on top right before serving for an indulgent twist.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your mashed potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance their flavor and presentation.

As a Comfort Food Dish

• Enjoy them straight from the bowl, topped with gravy or extra caramelized onions for an extra comforting experience.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect texture and taste in your mashed potatoes is essential. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they are creamy and smooth when mashed.
• Don’t skip the caramelizing: Allowing your onions to caramelize fully brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Add warm ingredients: Incorporate warm butter and half & half (or coconut milk) into the mash for a smoother consistency.
• Mash gently: Be careful not to over-mash your potatoes, as this can lead to a gummy texture.
• Season well: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary; sometimes a little extra salt makes all the difference.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like fried shallots or crispy garlic for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes complement various dishes perfectly. Here are some excellent side options that pair well with them.

1. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.

2. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a crunchy contrast to creamy mashed potatoes.

3. Baked Salmon
   The rich flavor of baked salmon complements the savory taste of caramelized onion mashed potatoes beautifully.

4. Sautéed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil offer brightness alongside the richness of the potatoes.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Hearty stuffed bell peppers filled with grains and veggies make for a filling meal when served with mashed potatoes.

6. Herbed Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing herbed quinoa salad brings lightness to balance out the creamy, buttery flavors of the dish.

7. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and depth, making them an excellent partner for this comforting dish.

8. Zucchini Fritters
   These crispy fritters offer a great way to incorporate more veggies while providing contrasting textures on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Not slicing onions evenly: This can lead to uneven cooking and browning. Always slice them thinly and consistently for better caramelization.
• Rushing the caramelization process: Cooking onions too quickly can result in burnt bits instead of sweet, golden goodness. Be patient and keep the heat at medium for even caramelization.
• Skipping seasoning the potatoes: Under-seasoned mashed potatoes can taste bland. Make sure to add enough salt and seasoning, especially when boiling your potatoes.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or milk can cool down your mashed potatoes. For the best texture, use room temperature or melted ingredients when mixing.
• Mashing too aggressively: Over-mashing can make your potatoes gummy. Use a gentle touch to achieve that creamy consistency without overworking them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller servings for easy reheating.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat with a splash of milk or broth, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon Gold is preferred for its creaminess, you can experiment with Russet or red potatoes for different textures.

How do I make these mashed potatoes vegan?

Simply substitute regular butter with non-dairy butter and use plant-based milk instead of half & half.

Can I prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day before and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to mix them with the mashed potatoes.

What dishes pair well with Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes are great alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or as part of a holiday feast.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes offer an incredible blend of flavors that elevate any meal. Their creamy texture paired with sweet caramelized onions makes them a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or cheese variations!