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 and topped with buttery caramelized onions, making them perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and herbs elevates the traditional mashed potato experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for holidays, family meals, or even as a comforting treat on a chilly evening.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this dish accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Creamy Texture: The use of half & half or coconut milk ensures a rich and creamy consistency.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or adjust the cheese to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Perfect for evenly caramelizing the onions over medium heat without burning them.
• Pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes to achieve that perfect fork-tender texture.
• Potato masher: A must-have for achieving smooth and creamy mashed potatoes without lumps.

Ingredients

To create the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need:

• 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. Thinly slice them and set them aside. It may look like a lot of onions, but they will shrink as they cook!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add in the olive oil once hot.
3. Stir in the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and caramelized. This should take about 40–50 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

While waiting for the onions:
1. Wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly.
2. Chop them into small pieces. You can leave the skin on for added texture.

Step 4: Boil Potatoes

1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Add in the chopped potatoes and cook for about 20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

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

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 7: Mix in Caramelized Onions

Once your onions are fully caramelized:
1. Remove from heat and add half of them into your mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.
2. Stir well until incorporated.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer your mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes are a fantastic addition to any meal. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add a crunchy texture and balance the creaminess of the potatoes.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• A juicy grilled chicken breast complements the rich flavors of the mashed potatoes and makes for a complete meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling extra herbs like parsley or dill on top enhances the dish’s presentation and flavor profile.

Accompany with a Side Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty mashed potatoes.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the richness while adding an appealing finish to the dish.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Achieving the perfect mashed potato texture and flavor is key. Follow these tips for success.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are creamy and buttery, making them ideal for mashing.
• Caramelize Onions Slowly: Taking your time with the onions ensures they develop deep, sweet flavors.
• Incorporate Warm Dairy: Adding warm half & half or coconut milk helps keep the potatoes fluffy and smooth.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mash until combined; overmixing can lead to gluey potatoes.
• Season Generously: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and other seasonings for maximum flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the mashed potatoes right after preparing for optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide a fresh, vibrant contrast.
2. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots add color and sweetness that complements the savory potatoes.
3. Creamed Spinach: This rich side dish brings a creamy texture that harmonizes well with mashed potatoes.
4. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks: Flavorful roasted cauliflower adds depth and nutrition without overpowering the meal.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice make for a hearty addition alongside your potatoes.
6. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts bring an earthy flavor that pairs excellently with your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mashed potatoes can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes.

• Overcooking the Onions: Cooking onions for too long can lead to burnt flavors. Stir them occasionally and monitor closely to achieve a golden brown color.
• Underseasoning the Potatoes: Not adding enough salt can make your mashed potatoes bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning for the perfect flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold butter or milk can result in lumpy potatoes. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing them in.
• Not Mashing Enough: Leaving chunks in your mashed potatoes can affect texture. Mash thoroughly until smooth for that creamy consistency.
• Skipping the Herbs: Missing out on fresh herbs can diminish flavor complexity. Always include fresh herbs like chives or thyme for added taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They will last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of broth or milk, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while Yukon Golds are preferred for their creaminess, you can use Russets or reds if desired.

How do I make these mashed potatoes dairy-free?

Substitute non-dairy butter and use full-fat coconut milk or any plant-based milk instead of half & half.

Can I add more toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with crispy shallots, extra herbs, or even a drizzle of olive oil on top.

What should I serve with these mashed potatoes?

These creamy mashed potatoes pair well with any protein dish such as roasted chicken, grilled beef, or vegetable stir-fries.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are a delicious twist on a classic side dish that everyone will love. Their creamy texture combined with sweet caramelized onions makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile! You can add your favorite herbs or spices to customize them further. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!