Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There’s a reason why the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes have become a favorite for gatherings and special occasions. This recipe combines the creamy, comforting goodness of classic mashed potatoes with the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions. Perfect for Thanksgiving dinners or as a side dish for any meal, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress your guests with their unique taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and buttery potatoes creates a rich taste that elevates any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these mashed potatoes with chicken, beef, or turkey for an impressive dinner or serve them at festive gatherings.
• Herb-Infused Goodness: Fresh herbs like thyme and sage add layers of flavor that make these potatoes truly stand out.
• Rich Texture: The inclusion of half & half (or coconut milk) ensures a creamy consistency that melts in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

To create the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for evenly caramelizing onions to bring out their sweet flavor.
• Pot: Required for boiling the potatoes until they are fork-tender.
• Potato masher: Helps achieve a smooth consistency without lumps in your mashed potatoes.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make 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)

How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

To begin making these delicious mashed potatoes, start by preparing your onions.
1. Peel the skin from the onions.
2. Thinly slice them into even rounds.
3. Set aside once done.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Now it’s time to caramelize those onions for maximum flavor.
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 sweet-smelling, about 40-50 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While your onions are caramelizing, you can prepare your Yukon Gold potatoes:
1. Wash them thoroughly under running water.
2. Chop them into small pieces; no need to peel unless you prefer it that way.
3. In a pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add in the chopped potatoes.
4. Cook for about 20 minutes until fork tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Once your potatoes are done cooking:
1. Drain them well in a colander.
2. Return them to the pot and mash using a potato masher until smooth.

Step 5: Mix in Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together!
1. Add in butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk).
2. Mash again until fully combined and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Onions with Potatoes

With your onions fully caramelized:
1. Remove half of them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Add the remaining onions into the mashed potatoes along with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
3. Stir until well incorporated.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Finally, serve up these delightful mashed potatoes:
1. Transfer them to a large bowl.
2. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, fresh thyme, fresh sage, and melted butter before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful journey with these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes!

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 that will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the richness of the mashed potatoes. Drizzle with a light herb sauce for extra freshness.

Top with Sautéed Vegetables

• Bright, sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans provide a colorful and nutritious contrast to the creamy potatoes.

Serve alongside Beef Roast

• The savory flavors of a beef roast pair perfectly with the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Accompany with Turkey Meatballs

• Turkey meatballs in marinara sauce bring an Italian twist, enhancing the overall taste and adding protein to your plate.

Add Fresh Herbs for Garnish

• Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top not only enhances visual appeal but also adds an aromatic freshness to each bite.

Create a Comfort Food Bowl

• Layer mashed potatoes with your choice of proteins and vegetables in a bowl for a cozy, comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your mashed potatoes is key. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture. They mash beautifully without becoming gluey.

• Caramelize onions slowly: Take your time with the onions; cooking them on medium heat allows for deep caramelization and maximum flavor.

• Use warm ingredients: Adding warm butter and half & half (or coconut milk) helps keep the potatoes fluffy instead of dense.

• Don’t over-mash: For the best texture, mash just until combined. Over-mashing can lead to gummy potatoes.

• Season well: Taste as you go! Adjust salt levels according to your preference for the most flavorful dish.

• Experiment with toppings: Try different herbs or cheese varieties to personalize your mashed potato experience.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these sprouts add a delightful crunch.

2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic provide a fresh and vibrant side that balances richness.

3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots add color and sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with savory mashed potatoes.

4. Crispy Baked Cauliflower: A light coating of spices makes this cauliflower dish crispy and flavorful, making it an excellent pairing.

5. Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach with vinaigrette offers brightness and acidity that contrast nicely with creamy potatoes.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer heartiness while complementing the flavors of the main dish.

7. Herbed Quinoa: Light yet filling, quinoa seasoned with herbs enhances any meal while providing additional textures.

8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters bring a fun twist and added veggies to your plate, making them a tasty complement to mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mashed potatoes can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the caramelization step: Caramelizing onions adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this process; take your time to achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
• Not seasoning the water: When boiling potatoes, be sure to add salt to the water. This helps enhance the flavor of the potatoes from the start.
• Over-mashing the potatoes: Overworking potatoes can lead to a gluey texture. Mash them just until smooth and creamy for the best results.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or milk can cool down your mashed potatoes. Bring these ingredients to room temperature before mixing them in for a smoother consistency.
• Neglecting herbs and toppings: The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes shine with fresh herbs and toppings. Don’t skip adding chives, thyme, or sage for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Portion out mashed potatoes into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place mashed potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?

Caramelizing onions requires patience. Cook them slowly over medium heat while stirring occasionally until they turn deep brown and sweet.

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of dairy in this recipe?

You can use non-dairy butter and full-fat coconut milk as alternatives to keep it dairy-free while maintaining creaminess.

How do I customize my Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Feel free to add different herbs or cheeses based on your preferences! Garlic or roasted vegetables would also make great additions.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not just delicious but also versatile enough to complement any meal. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering or as a comforting weeknight side dish, they will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite herbs or toppings!