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.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Caramelized Onions
• For the Mashed Potatoes
• For Flavor Enhancements
• How to Make Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
• Step 1: Prepare the Onions
• Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
• Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
• Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
• Step 5: Combine Ingredients
• Step 6: Add Flavorings
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
• With Gravy
• As a Base for Protein
• Topped with Greens
• In a Casserole
• As a Side Dish
• How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
• Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
• Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes vegan?
• Can I use any type of potato?
• Can I prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time?
• How long do leftovers last?
• What dishes pair well with Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The caramelized onions add a rich sweetness that elevates traditional mashed potatoes to gourmet status.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes are sure to impress your guests and family alike.
• Herb-Infused Goodness: Fresh thyme, sage, and chives provide a burst of freshness that complements the creamy texture of the potatoes.
• Easy to Make: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish without hassle.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in different cheeses or add extra herbs to make this recipe your own.

Tools and Preparation

To create the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy skillet
• Large pot
• Potato masher or ricer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy skillet: Ideal for even cooking and caramelizing onions to achieve that perfect golden brown color.
• Potato masher or ricer: Ensures the mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy without lumps.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing onions quick and easy; a must-have for any prep work.

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 4 Yellow Onions (sliced thin and evenly)

For the Mashed Potatoes

• 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

For Flavor Enhancements

• 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 preparing the onions. Peel the skin from the onions and thinly slice 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 heavy skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil. Once the oil is hot:
1. Add in the onions.
2. Stir occasionally until they are browned, caramelized, and have shrunken down. This will take approximately 40-50 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

While the onions are cooking, prepare the potatoes:
1. Wash them thoroughly.
2. Chop into small pieces; there’s no need to peel unless desired!

Next:
1. Heat a large pot of water on high heat until it reaches a rolling boil.
2. Add in the chopped potatoes and allow them to cook for 20 minutes until fork tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Once cooked:
1. Drain the water from the pot.
2. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash them until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add in:
– The butter,
– Kosher salt,
– Half & Half (or coconut milk).

Mash again until fully combined.

Step 6: Add Flavorings

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

Stir well so that everything is fully incorporated.

Step 7: Serve

Finally:
1. Transfer your 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, flavorful mashed potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Gravy

• Rich Brown Gravy: Pour over a warm, savory gravy made from pan drippings for an extra layer of flavor.

As a Base for Protein

• Roasted Chicken: Serve with juicy roasted chicken for a comforting and satisfying dinner.
• Steak Bites: Pair with tender steak bites for a deliciously hearty meal.

Topped with Greens

• Sautéed Spinach: Add a vibrant touch by topping with sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Herbed Peas: Bright green peas tossed with herbs complement the richness of the potatoes beautifully.

In a Casserole

• Mashed Potato Casserole: Layer these mashed potatoes in a casserole dish with cheese and bake until bubbly for a crowd-pleasing dish.

As a Side Dish

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your mashed potatoes come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their buttery flavor and creamy texture.
• Don’t Rush the Onions: Caramelizing onions takes time; patience will result in deeper flavor.
• Use Warm Ingredients: Adding warm butter and milk helps keep the potatoes fluffy and prevents them from becoming gummy.
• Mash to Your Preference: For creamier potatoes, use a potato ricer; for chunkier versions, a traditional masher works well.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and flavorings to your liking gradually.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some top picks that complement their rich flavor.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic make a fresh, crunchy contrast.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots provide a delightful balance to the richness of the potatoes.
3. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.
4. Creamed Spinach: This classic side is rich and creamy, enhancing the overall comfort food experience.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an earthy note that complements the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions.
6. Caesar Salad: A refreshing Caesar salad adds crunch and brightness to your plate, balancing out the heaviness of the potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Not caramelizing the onions long enough: The key to rich flavor is slow cooking. Allow at least 40-50 minutes for perfect caramelization.
• Using cold potatoes: Cold potatoes can lead to a lumpy texture. Make sure to cook them in hot water until fork-tender.
• Over-mashing the potatoes: Over-mashing can result in gummy potatoes. Mash just until smooth, being careful not to overwork them.
• Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs add depth and flavor. Don’t skip the thyme, chives, or sage; they elevate this dish!
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste before serving! Adding enough salt is crucial for enhancing all the flavors in your mashed potatoes.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• item Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• item Portion into smaller servings for easier thawing later.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and reheat for about 20-25 minutes.
• item Microwave: Heat in increments of 1 minute, stirring between each until heated through.
• item Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk or butter if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute dairy butter with non-dairy butter and use coconut milk or another dairy-free milk option.

Can I use any type of potato?

While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can also use Russet or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly.

Can I prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can make them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers will last about 3 days in the refrigerator. Make sure they’re stored properly in an airtight container.

What dishes pair well with Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a hearty side for holiday meals.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their creamy texture and rich flavor make them perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize by adding more herbs or cheese according to your taste!