Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual family dinners. The rich taste of caramelized onions combined with buttery Yukon Gold potatoes creates a side dish that stands out at any table. Not only does it boast incredible flavor, but it also brings warmth and satisfaction to your meal, making it an instant favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The sweetness of caramelized onions elevates ordinary mashed potatoes to a whole new level.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly complements a wide range of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Creamy Texture: Using Yukon Gold potatoes ensures a smooth and creamy consistency that everyone will love.
• Herb-Infused Goodness: Fresh thyme, sage, and chives add delightful herbal notes that enhance the dish’s overall flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand simplifies preparation and ensures everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Pot for Boiling
• Potato Masher
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for evenly caramelizing onions without overcrowding them, allowing for perfect browning.
• Pot for Boiling: A spacious pot ensures the potatoes cook uniformly, preventing uneven texture in your mashed potatoes.
• Potato Masher: Provides the best control over the consistency of your mashed potatoes, whether you prefer them chunky or silky smooth.

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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
• 1 Cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)

For Garnish

• 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

• Peel the skin off the onions and slice them thinly. It’s okay if it looks like a lot; they will reduce in size when cooked.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
• Once hot, add sliced onions. Stir occasionally until they turn golden brown and caramelized—this will take about 40-50 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

• While the onions are caramelizing, wash and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into small pieces. You can leave the skin on for added texture.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes

• Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add chopped potatoes and cook for 20 minutes or until fork-tender.

Step 5: Mash the Potatoes

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

Step 6: Add Ingredients to Mashed Potatoes

• Mix in salted butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or your choice of dairy-free milk). Mash again until fully combined.

Step 7: Combine with Caramelized Onions

1. Add half of the caramelized onions into your mashed potato mixture along with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
2. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.

Step 8: Serve with Toppings

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

Enjoy every bite of these Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, perfect for sharing at your next gathering!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These delicious mashed potatoes are perfect for any occasion. They can be served as a main dish or a delightful side, adding a rich flavor to your meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture and savory taste of the mashed potatoes.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and health benefits, making for a balanced plate that complements the rich flavors.

As a Base for Beef Stew

• Use these mashed potatoes as a base to soak up the hearty broth from a beef stew, creating an irresistible combination.

Topped with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top to enhance the freshness and presentation of your dish.

Served with a Side Salad

• A light salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mashed potatoes, balancing out the meal perfectly.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To achieve the ultimate creamy texture and flavor in your mashed potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their creamy texture makes them perfect for mashing, providing a smooth consistency.
• Don’t Rush Caramelizing Onions: Take your time caramelizing onions; this enhances their sweetness and brings out their full flavor.
• Warm Your Dairy Ingredients: Adding warm butter and milk helps create an even creamier mash as it prevents cooling down the potatoes.
• Mash While Hot: Mashing potatoes while they are still hot ensures they remain fluffy and don’t become gummy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt after incorporating all ingredients to ensure the best flavor balance.
• Add More Herbs If Desired: Feel free to customize with more herbs based on your preference—this adds freshness and depth.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Pair these delightful mashed potatoes with complementary side dishes for an unforgettable meal experience.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned with lemon juice, grilled asparagus adds a fresh crunch that balances the creamy mash.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a vibrant green color and is packed with vitamins.
3. Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots contrasts beautifully with savory mashed potatoes.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts introduce another layer of flavor while enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
5. Baked Chicken Thighs: Juicy baked chicken thighs seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying protein option alongside the mashed potatoes.
6. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine and tangy dressing that cuts through the richness of the dish.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with quinoa or rice, these colorful peppers add heartiness while being visually appealing on your plate.
8. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic adds both nutrition and vibrant color, complementing your mash perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Caramelizing onions requires space. If you overcrowd the pan, they will steam instead of caramelize. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches.
• Not Cooking Onions Long Enough: Rushing the caramelization process can lead to bitter-tasting onions. Allow at least 40-50 minutes for them to properly brown and develop sweetness.
• Skipping the Salt: Salt enhances flavor, especially in mashed potatoes. Make sure to season at each stage—while cooking potatoes and mixing in ingredients.
• Ignoring Potato Variety: Not all potatoes are created equal. Yukon Golds are creamy and buttery, making them ideal for mashing. Avoid using waxy potatoes like red-skinned varieties.
• Using Cold Dairy Products: Cold butter or milk can make your mashed potatoes gluey. Warm up these ingredients before adding them to achieve a silky texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow potatoes to cool to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• It’s best to freeze without added toppings to maintain texture.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place covered mashed potatoes in an oven-safe dish and heat for 20-30 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth and reheat over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

The combination of creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, perfectly caramelized onions, and rich Parmesan cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that elevates this classic dish.

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Are there any substitutions I can make?

Absolutely! You can use non-dairy butter and coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Feel free to customize herbs based on your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my mashed potatoes are creamy?

Make sure to mash the potatoes while they’re still hot and use warm dairy products. This helps achieve that desired smooth consistency.

Can I add additional toppings?

Definitely! Try adding crispy fried onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted garlic for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes combine rich flavors with comforting textures, making them a perfect side dish for any occasion. Customize with your favorite herbs or toppings for a personal touch!