Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a comforting side dish that steals the show, you’ve come to the right place! My Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not your average mashed potatoes. They are creamy, buttery, and bursting with flavor, thanks to the sweet caramelized onions that take them to a whole new level. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and it’s sure to impress everyone at your Thanksgiving dinner table. Trust me; once you try these, you’ll never want to go back to plain old mashed potatoes!

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few wholesome ingredients and some love, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting. So gather your loved ones and let’s dive into making this delicious side dish together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and creamy potatoes creates an irresistible taste that elevates any meal.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these in advance and reheat them before serving, saving time on busy days.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or cheeses for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple with some wholesome ingredients that pack a punch! Here’s what you need for the 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)

Variations

One of the best things about these mashed potatoes is their flexibility! Feel free to make them your own with these fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Mix in roasted garlic or steamed cauliflower for added flavor and nutrition.
• Herb It Up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist.
• Cheesy Goodness: Swap out parmesan for cheddar cheese for a different cheesy experience.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sautéed jalapeños for a spicy version.

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To make these mashed potatoes truly shine, start by peeling and thinly slicing the onions. It may seem like a lot of onions at first, but trust me, they will shrink down as they caramelize. This step is essential because caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your mashed potatoes.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat up a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Once hot, add those beautiful sliced onions. Stir occasionally as they cook down over approximately 40-50 minutes until they are golden brown and perfectly caramelized. Patience is key here; let those flavors develop!

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While the onions are doing their magic, wash your Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly and chop them into smaller pieces—no need to peel unless you prefer! Leaving the skin on adds texture and fiber.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add in your chopped potatoes and cook them for about 20 minutes until they’re fork-tender. This step ensures that your potatoes will be fluffy when mashed!

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and transfer them back into the pot. Grab your masher and mash away! Add in your butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk) while mashing until everything is creamy and well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Caramelized Onions

When those gorgeous onions are ready, remove half from the skillet and mix them into your mashed potato mixture along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir well so every bite has that rich onion flavor.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Transfer your mashed potatoes into a large bowl and top them with the remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter. Now it’s time to dig in! These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes will surely become a favorite at every meal!

Pro Tips for Making Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Making the perfect mashed potatoes is an art, and these tips will help you achieve a creamy, flavorful masterpiece!

• Slice onions evenly: Ensuring your onions are sliced uniformly allows them to cook evenly, resulting in perfectly caramelized sweetness that enhances the flavor of your mashed potatoes.

• Low and slow for caramelization: Cooking the onions over medium heat for longer creates a rich, deep flavor that can’t be rushed. Patience is key here; those golden-brown bits are worth the wait!

• Mash while hot: Mashing the potatoes while they’re still warm ensures a smooth texture without lumps. Cold potatoes can become gummy when mashed, so work quickly for the best results.

• Adjust creaminess: Feel free to tweak the amount of half & half or coconut milk based on your desired creaminess. Starting with less and adding more gradually lets you control the consistency perfectly.

• Experiment with herbs: While this recipe calls for thyme and sage, don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish further and add personal flair!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Serving mashed potatoes beautifully can turn a simple side into a show-stopping dish at any meal. Here’s how to make them shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked pepper provides a slight kick that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
• Additional cheese: Sprinkle some extra grated parmesan on top just before serving for an added cheesy layer that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy little bites add a delightful crunch and a slightly nutty flavor which pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes.

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic offer a fresh contrast to the richness of the mashed potatoes while adding vibrant color to your plate.

• Grilled Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brings in brightness and variety, making every bite interesting.

• Herbed Quinoa Salad: This light and refreshing salad packed with herbs gives a nutritious balance to your meal, offering a great textural contrast alongside those luscious mashed potatoes.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are fantastic for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, saving you precious moments during busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, check for freshness and reheat thoroughly.

Freezing

• Let the mashed potatoes cool completely before freezing.
• Portion them into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or water for creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with a non-dairy butter alternative and use coconut milk or your favorite plant-based milk instead of half & half.

How do I achieve the best caramelization for my onions?

To achieve perfectly caramelized onions, cook them slowly over medium heat and stir occasionally. This process can take time but results in rich flavor!

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

While Yukon Gold potatoes provide great texture and flavor, you can also use russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just note that they might yield a slightly different taste and texture.

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

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even as a comforting side dish at a family gathering!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes just as much as I do! Their creamy texture combined with sweet caramelized onions makes them a special treat perfect for any occasion. Remember, cooking is all about love and creativity—don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!