Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This creamy and flavorful dish elevates traditional mashed potatoes with rich, buttery caramelized onions and fresh herbs. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any day you crave a hearty side dish, these potatoes offer a delicious twist that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The sweet and savory taste of caramelized onions adds depth to classic mashed potatoes.
• Creamy Texture: With the perfect balance of butter and creamy milk, every bite is smooth and satisfying.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or simple weeknight dinners; they pair well with almost any main course.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels; just a bit of patience is required for caramelizing the onions.
• Fresh Herbs: Using chives, thyme, and sage brightens the dish and enhances its flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for evenly caramelizing the onions to achieve that sweet flavor without burning them.
• Pot: A sturdy pot is necessary for boiling the potatoes until they are fork-tender.
• Potato masher or ricer: These tools help create the desired creamy consistency in your mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 Yellow Onions (sliced thin and evenly)
• 2 Pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes (washed)

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 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

For Seasoning and Garnish

• 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 peeling the skin from the onions and thinly slicing them. It will look like a lot of onions, but that’s okay!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

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

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While the onions cook:
1. Wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly.
2. Chop them into small pieces; peeling is optional for texture.
3. Heat a pot of water on high until it boils.
4. Add in chopped potatoes and cook for approximately 20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

1. Drain water from cooked potatoes.
2. Use a potato masher to mash them until smooth.

Step 5: Mix Ingredients

1. Add butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk).
2. Mash again until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine with Onions

Once onions are caramelized:
1. Remove from heat and stir half into the mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.
2. Mix thoroughly to incorporate flavors.

Step 7: Finish Up

1. Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl.
2. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter.
3. Serve warm and enjoy your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for any meal. They can enhance your dinner experience when served with the right accompaniments.

Pair with Grilled Meats

• Steak – Juicy grilled steak pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the mashed potatoes.
• Chicken – Roasted or grilled chicken adds a nice protein balance to this indulgent side.
• Lamb Chops – The savory notes of lamb complement the sweetness of caramelized onions perfectly.

Add Fresh Herbs and Greens

• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and color to your serving.
• Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach provides a fresh contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Serve with Sauces

• Gravy – A rich, savory gravy drizzled over the top enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Herb Butter – Melted herb-infused butter lends an extra layer of richness and aroma.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your mashed potatoes is all about technique. Here are some tips for making your dish truly stand out.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes – Their creamy texture makes for the best mashed potatoes.
• Don’t Rush Caramelizing Onions – Take your time with onions; low and slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness.
• Incorporate Warm Ingredients – Adding warm butter and cream prevents the potatoes from becoming gummy.
• Taste as You Go – Adjust salt and seasoning throughout the process for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes can be complemented by various side dishes that round out your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside; they add a great crunch.
2. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a fresh, bright flavor contrast.
3. Maple-Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots balance well with savory mashed potatoes.
4. Cauliflower Gratin – A cheesy, baked cauliflower dish offers delicious creaminess alongside.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for a hearty addition.
6. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil lighten up your plate with freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mashed potatoes can seem straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Onions: Not caramelizing the onions long enough can lead to a lack of flavor. Cook them slowly over medium heat until they are golden and sweet.
• Bold Potatoes: Using the wrong type of potato can affect texture. Stick to Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy consistency.
• Bold Butter: Adding cold butter directly to hot potatoes can make them lumpy. Make sure the butter is at room temperature before mixing it in.
• Bold Liquid Measurement: Overdoing the liquid can result in watery potatoes. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Over-mashing potatoes can make them gummy. Mash gently until smooth without overworking them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as they may expand when frozen.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between each, until warmed through. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries regarding the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes.

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

You can add roasted garlic, different herbs, or cheese varieties like cheddar or feta for extra flavor.

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and reheat just before serving. They taste great even after sitting!

What type of potatoes work best for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended due to their creamy texture and rich flavor, making them ideal for this recipe.

Are these mashed potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Their creamy texture paired with sweet caramelized onions makes them perfect for any occasion! Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or cheeses to make them your own.