Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There is no dish that is more quintessential to American cooking than mashed potatoes. The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes take this classic to new heights! These creamy, herb-infused mashed potatoes are topped with buttery caramelized onions, making them perfect for any occasion—especially your Thanksgiving dinner table. With their rich flavor and unique twist, they’ll surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The caramelized onions add a sweet and savory depth that elevates standard mashed potatoes.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, requiring simple ingredients and minimal fuss.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any meal—be it holiday feasts or casual dinners.
• Herb-Infused Goodness: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage bring an aromatic quality that complements the dish beautifully.
• Comfort Food Classic: A warm bowl of mashed potatoes brings joy and comfort, making every meal feel special.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Potato masher
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until fork-tender.
• Skillet: Perfect for caramelizing onions to perfection without burning them.
• Potato masher: Ensures you achieve that perfect creamy consistency in your mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Best Ever Caramelized Onion 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)

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To make these mashed potatoes, start by preparing the onions. Peel the skin from the onions and thinly slice them. It will look like a lot of onions, but that is okay!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Once the onions are done, set them aside. Then, heat a skillet on medium heat and add in the olive oil.
* Once the oil is hot, add in the onions.
* Stir occasionally until browned and caramelized; this takes about 40–50 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While the onions are cooking, prepare the potatoes:
* Wash the potatoes thoroughly and chop them into small pieces. You don’t need to peel unless preferred!
* Heat a pot of water on the stove. Once boiling, add in chopped potatoes.
* Cook for about 20 minutes until they’re fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Once cooked, drain water from the pot and mash them:
* Add in butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk) to the mashed potatoes.
* Mash again until fully combined and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once the onions have fully caramelized:
* Remove from heat and mix half of them into the mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.
* Stir until incorporated well.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer mashed potatoes to a large bowl:
* Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter.
Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes make a delightful addition to any meal. Their rich flavors and creamy texture pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts for a tasty combination. The smoky flavor of the chicken complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

As a Base for Beef Stew

• Use these mashed potatoes as a comforting base for hearty beef stew. The creamy potatoes soak up the flavorful broth, creating a satisfying meal.

Topped with Sauteed Vegetables

• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini on top of the mashed potatoes. This not only adds color but also boosts nutrition and flavor.

Accompanied by Fresh Salad

• Pair with a fresh salad featuring greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers. The lightness of the salad balances out the richness of the mashed potatoes.

Perfect with Turkey Meatballs

• Serve it next to turkey meatballs in a savory sauce for a delicious twist on comfort food. The flavors meld beautifully together.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect batch of Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a natural buttery flavor and creamy texture, making them perfect for mashing.

• Don’t Rush the Onions: Allow the onions to caramelize slowly over medium heat for 40-50 minutes. This develops their sweet, rich flavor.

• Mash While Hot: For the smoothest consistency, mash your potatoes while they’re still hot. This helps incorporate air into them, making them fluffy.

• Incorporate Ingredients Gradually: Add butter and cream slowly while mashing to ensure even distribution throughout your potatoes.

• Adjust Seasoning Last: After mixing in all ingredients, taste before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with numerous side dishes, complementing their richness with contrasting flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and slightly charred, these sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that balances well with creamy mashed potatoes.

2. Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with garlic provide freshness and brightness, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed in honey offer a beautiful contrast to savory mashed potatoes while adding vibrant color to your plate.

4. Lemon Herb Quinoa: A light quinoa dish seasoned with lemon zest and fresh herbs provides a refreshing side that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains or lentils create an eye-catching dish that pairs wonderfully with creamy potatoes.

6. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil make for an elegant side that adds both color and nutrition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Onions: Overcooking or undercooking the onions can lead to less flavor. Aim for a rich golden color by cooking them low and slow.
• Bold Potato Prep: Not cutting the potatoes evenly can result in uneven cooking. Chop them into uniform pieces for consistent texture.
• Bold Butter Temperature: Adding cold butter can cool down your mashed potatoes. Let it reach room temperature for easy mixing.
• Bold Mixing Method: Over-mixing will create gummy potatoes. Mash just until combined for that fluffy texture you want.
• Bold Seasoning Timing: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can leave your dish bland. Season gradually, and taste as you go.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• These mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or milk in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What is the best type of potato to use?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, making them perfect for mashed potatoes.

How can I customize these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to add roasted garlic, cheese varieties, or different herbs according to your taste preferences!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use non-dairy butter and coconut milk instead of regular butter and half & half for a delicious vegan version.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough to complement any meal. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy dinner at home, these mashed potatoes will shine on your table. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or toppings!