Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There is no dish that is more quintessential to American cooking than mashed potatoes. Think: creamy, cheesy, smooth potatoes often topped with chives, fresh herbs, and a whole lot of butter. My version of mashed potatoes isn’t your typical recipe – after all, they aren’t called the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes for nothing! These potatoes are loaded with herbs, topped with buttery caramelized onions, and are perfect for serving on your Thanksgiving dinner table or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful – The combination of caramelized onions and fresh herbs elevates the traditional mashed potato dish to new heights.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these mashed potatoes will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make – With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this dish is straightforward for cooks of all skill levels.
• Creamy Texture – Using Yukon Gold potatoes ensures a smooth and creamy consistency that everyone will love.
• Versatile Options – You can easily customize this recipe by using non-dairy alternatives or different herbs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

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 sautéing the onions to achieve that rich caramelization.
• Potato masher – Ensures you get the desired texture without lumps in your mashed potatoes.

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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 slicing them thinly. It may look like a lot of onions, but that’s exactly what you want!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

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

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. While the onions are caramelizing, wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly.
2. Chop them into small pieces; peeling is optional based on your texture preference.
3. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add the chopped potatoes.
4. Cook for about 20 minutes until they are fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

1. Drain the water from the pot once the potatoes are done cooking.
2. Use a potato masher to mash them until smooth.

Step 5: Mix in Dairy and Seasonings

1. Add in butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk).
2. Mash again until all ingredients are combined smoothly.

Step 6: Combine Onions with Potatoes

1. Once caramelized, remove half of the onions from heat and stir them into the mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.
2. Ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Transfer your mashed potato mixture to a large bowl.
Top it with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes as a comforting side dish that’s destined to become a favorite!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are a delicious and comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• Roasted chicken complements the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying meal.

Add a Simple Green Salad

• A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast to the richness of the potatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled vegetables provide a smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions in the mashed potatoes.

Top with Extra Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten up the dish and add an extra layer of freshness.

Pair with Beef or Turkey Meatloaf

• The savory flavors of beef or turkey meatloaf pair beautifully with these mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner option.

Enjoy as a Filling for Savory Pies

• Use these mashed potatoes as a filling in savory pies, offering a delicious twist on traditional comfort food.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To make these mashed potatoes truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their natural creaminess ensures your mashed potatoes are smooth and flavorful.
• Caramelize Slowly: Take your time when caramelizing onions; this enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Add Milk Gradually: Pour in your half & half or non-dairy milk slowly while mashing for perfect consistency.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt levels after adding cheese; this brings out all the flavors.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme, chives, and sage not only enhances taste but also adds vibrant color.
• Reheat Gently: If you need to reheat leftovers, do so on low heat to maintain creaminess without drying them out.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans
   Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter add brightness and crunch to your plate.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet honey-glazed carrots offer a delightful contrast to the savory mashed potatoes.
3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a crispy texture that complements the creaminess of your dish.
4. Balsamic Roasted Asparagus
   Balsamic asparagus provides tanginess that cuts through the richness, making it an excellent side choice.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables provide a hearty addition to any meal featuring mashed potatoes.
6. Creamy Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw offers crunch and zest that balances out the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes.
7. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A quick vegetable stir-fry adds vibrant colors and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
8. Spinach Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   This light salad brings acidity that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes is simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Onions: Caramelizing onions requires patience. If you cook them too quickly over high heat, they will burn instead of caramelize. Keep the heat medium and stir occasionally.
• Not Salting the Potatoes: Failing to salt your boiling water can lead to bland potatoes. Always add a generous amount of salt to the water to enhance the flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold butter or milk can cool down your mashed potatoes, resulting in a less creamy texture. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing them in.
• Mashing Too Aggressively: Over-mashing can turn your potatoes gummy. Use a gentle hand or a potato ricer for a smooth and fluffy result.
• Skipping the Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor of your mashed potatoes. Don’t skip them; fresh thyme, chives, and sage add depth and aroma that are essential for the best taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the mashed potatoes are cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or broth if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon Gold potatoes provide great flavor and texture, you can substitute with russet or red potatoes if preferred.

What if I want to make this recipe vegan?

To make vegan-friendly mashed potatoes, simply use non-dairy butter and coconut milk instead of dairy options.

How do I make my mashed potatoes extra creamy?

For extra creamy mashed potatoes, ensure all ingredients are warm when combined. You may also add more half & half or coconut milk until desired consistency is reached.

Can I prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them properly and reheat before serving.

What dishes pair well with caramelized onion mashed potatoes?

These mashed potatoes go well with roasted meats like chicken or turkey, grilled vegetables, or as part of a hearty vegetarian meal.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not just delicious; they bring warmth and comfort to any meal. Their creamy texture combined with the rich flavor of caramelized onions makes this dish versatile enough for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize by adding different herbs or cheeses according to your taste!