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 holiday dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Twist – The caramelized onions add a rich depth of flavor that elevates traditional mashed potatoes.
• Creamy Texture – Using half & half or coconut milk ensures these mashed potatoes are incredibly creamy and smooth.
• Herb-Infused Goodness – Fresh thyme, chives, and sage provide aromatic hints that make every bite delightful.
• Easy to Make – With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Versatile Side Dish – Ideal for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools. Proper equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until fork-tender.
• Skillet – Perfect for caramelizing onions slowly to develop their sweet flavor.
• Potato masher – Helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency without over-mixing.

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 thinly slicing 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 over medium heat and add in the olive oil.
* Add in the onions when the oil is hot.
* Stir occasionally until browned and caramelized. This should take 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. Peeling is optional; leaving skin adds texture.

Next, heat a pot of water on the stove:
1. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add in the chopped potatoes.
2. Cook for about 20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Once cooked:
1. Drain water from the pot.
2. Mash the potatoes until smooth.

Step 5: Mix in Ingredients

Add in:
* Butter,
* Kosher salt,
* Half & half (or coconut milk)

Mash again until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Onions and Cheese

Once caramelized onions are ready:
1. Remove from heat.
2. Add half of them to the mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Final Touches

Stir to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Finally:
1. Transfer mashed potatoes to a large bowl.
2. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter.

Serve warm and enjoy your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual gathering, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions in the mashed potatoes.

Serve Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables bring color and texture to your plate, making for a balanced and visually appealing dish.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill enhances the flavor profile and adds a fresh touch to each serving.

Accompany with Turkey Meatballs

• Juicy turkey meatballs pair wonderfully with the rich creaminess of the mashed potatoes, creating a comforting dish.

Drizzle with Gravy

• A light gravy can enhance the overall taste, adding moisture and richness that perfectly complements each bite of mashed potatoes.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your mashed potatoes are truly the best ever, consider these helpful tips for achieving perfect texture and flavor.

• Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, making them perfect for mashing.

• Caramelize onions slowly: Take your time when caramelizing onions. Slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall dish.

• Mash while hot: For smooth potatoes, mash them while they’re still warm. This helps prevent a gluey consistency that can occur if they cool too much before mashing.

• Add dairy gradually: Incorporate half & half or coconut milk slowly until you reach your desired creaminess. This ensures you don’t overdo it!

• Season well: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of both the potatoes and caramelized onions.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes make an excellent base for many dishes. Here are some great side options to serve alongside them:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli adds vibrancy and balances the rich flavors of the mashed potatoes.

2. Honey-Glazed Carrots
   Sweet carrots provide a contrast in flavor and texture, perfectly complementing the savory nature of the dish.

3. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed garlic green beans bring a crisp crunch that pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the sweetness of caramelized onions in the potatoes.

5. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A colorful vegetable stir-fry adds freshness and a variety of flavors that enhance your meal experience.

6. Baked Stuffed Peppers
   These peppers filled with grains and veggies offer a hearty option that works well with any creamy side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes to new heights. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the caramelization process: Caramelizing onions is key for flavor. Take your time and stir occasionally to achieve that deep, rich taste.
• Not using enough salt: Salt enhances the natural flavors of potatoes and onions. Don’t be shy; season adequately during cooking!
• Overcooking the potatoes: Keeping an eye on cooking time is vital. Fork-tender potatoes ensure a creamy texture, so drain them as soon as they are soft.
• Neglecting texture preferences: Some prefer smooth mashed potatoes while others like them chunky. Decide on your desired texture before mashing.
• Adding cold dairy products: Cold butter or milk can cool down your potatoes. Warm them slightly before mixing in for better consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to label them!

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While Yukon Golds are great for creaminess, you can also try Russets or red potatoes for different textures.

How do I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?

Simply substitute the butter with non-dairy butter and use coconut milk or any plant-based milk instead of half & half.

Can I add extra ingredients to my mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted garlic, cheese variations, or even different herbs to customize your dish.

What is the best way to reheat leftover Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Refer to the reheating instructions above for tips on warming leftovers without losing their creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With their rich flavors and creamy texture, they’re perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. Plus, they can be customized with various herbs or additional toppings. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!