Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of digging into a bowl of Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This dish elevates traditional mashed potatoes with sweet, buttery caramelized onions and fresh herbs, making it perfect for family dinners or holiday celebrations. The creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: These mashed potatoes combine creamy textures with savory flavors, making them a true comfort food classic.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
• Flavor Explosion: The caramelized onions add a rich sweetness that transforms simple mashed potatoes into an extraordinary side dish.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this recipe without fuss.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Potato masher
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for caramelizing onions evenly over medium heat, ensuring they reach the perfect golden-brown color.
• Pot: Required for boiling potatoes until fork-tender, making mashing easier.
• Potato masher: A must-have tool for achieving that desired creamy texture without lumps.

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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 slice them thinly. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot of onions; they will shrink as they cook.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. When hot, add the sliced onions.
3. Stir occasionally until they are browned and caramelized, which takes about 40–50 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the onions are caramelizing, wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. Chop them into small pieces; peeling is optional based on your texture preference.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

1. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
2. Add in the chopped potatoes and cook for about 20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

1. Once cooked, drain the potatoes.
2. Mash them in the pot until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

1. Add in butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or your dairy-free option).
2. Mash again until well combined.

Step 7: Mix in Caramelized Onions

Once your onions are perfectly caramelized, remove half of them from the skillet and mix with the mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter. Enjoy!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavors of grilled chicken complement the rich taste of the caramelized onions.
• Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing, roasted turkey and mashed potatoes create a comforting and satisfying plate.
• Beef Tenderloin: The tender texture of beef pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the mashed potatoes.

Add a Vegetable Side

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the mashed potatoes.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that enhances this dish’s profile.
• Caramelized Carrots: Sweet caramelized carrots echo the flavors of the onions for a harmonious plate.

Use as a Base for Other Dishes

• Shepherd’s Pie: Use these mashed potatoes as a topping for shepherd’s pie for an extra layer of flavor.
• Casseroles: Layer these potatoes in casseroles for added creaminess and comfort.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your mashed potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture, making them ideal for mashing.
• Don’t Rush the Onions: Take your time to caramelize the onions slowly; this develops deeper flavors that enhance the entire dish.
• Mash While Warm: Mash the potatoes while they are warm for a smoother consistency and better incorporation of ingredients.
• Adjust Creaminess Level: Experiment with half & half or coconut milk to find your desired creaminess. Add gradually until you reach perfection.
• Season Generously: Taste and adjust salt levels throughout the cooking process to ensure balanced flavors.
• Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like chives, thyme, and sage not only add color but also brighten up the rich flavors of the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with your mashed potatoes can enhance your meal. Here’s a list of great options to consider.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears provide a fresh crunch that complements creamy mashed potatoes.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots create a nice contrast with savory mashed potatoes.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers add both color and substance to your meal, balancing out richness.
4. Cauliflower au Gratin: This cheesy vegetable dish adds another layer of comfort food appeal alongside your mashed potatoes.
5. Spinach Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A light salad brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the mash.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with savory onion-flavored mash, creating balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mashed potatoes can be easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Boldly skip rinsing the potatoes. Not washing your Yukon Gold potatoes can leave dirt or excess starch, which can affect creaminess. Always rinse before chopping.

• Boldly ignore onion slicing techniques. Thick onion slices can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for thin, even slices for optimal caramelization and flavor.

• Boldly rush the caramelization process. Cooking onions too quickly can burn them instead of caramelizing. Be patient and cook on medium heat for 40-50 minutes.

• Boldly use cold ingredients. Adding cold milk or butter to hot potatoes can cool them down and create a lumpy texture. Use room temperature ingredients for creamier results.

• Boldly forget about seasoning adjustments. Not tasting as you go can lead to bland mashed potatoes. Adjust salt and pepper gradually for balanced flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• For longer storage, freeze mashed potatoes in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer; just remember to label them!

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes shine thanks to buttery caramelized onions that add depth of flavor, along with fresh herbs and creamy texture from high-quality ingredients.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute salted butter with non-dairy butter and use coconut milk or any dairy-free milk alternative for a delicious vegan version.

How do I customize Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to add different herbs like rosemary, or mix in roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

How do I know when my potatoes are done boiling?

Potatoes are fork-tender when you can easily pierce them with a fork but they should still hold their shape without falling apart.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not just a side dish; they bring warmth and comfort to any meal. With their rich flavor profile and creamy texture, they are perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite herbs or toppings!