Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

There’s something truly special about the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. This dish elevates the classic comfort food with layers of flavor and a rich, creamy texture. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests, these mashed potatoes are topped with buttery caramelized onions and fresh herbs. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of caramelized onions and creamy potatoes creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner; they complement any main course beautifully.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish without stress.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Everyone loves mashed potatoes! This version takes them to the next level that will leave your guests raving.
• Customizable Ingredients: Use non-dairy alternatives or adjust seasonings to suit your dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, you’ll need some essential tools to help you create the best mashed potatoes ever.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Potato Masher
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: This is essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until they’re fork-tender.
• Skillet: A good skillet ensures that the onions caramelize perfectly without burning.
• Potato Masher: To achieve that creamy texture, a quality potato masher is crucial.

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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 the Herb Topping

• 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 slicing them thinly. It may seem like a lot of onions, but trust me—it adds so much flavor!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil.
• Once hot, add in the sliced onions.
• Stir occasionally until they’re browned and caramelized, which should take about 40-50 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

• While the onions are cooking, wash and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into small pieces. You can leave the skin on for extra texture!
• In a large pot of water, bring it to a rolling boil. Add in the chopped potatoes.
• Cook for about 20 minutes until they are fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

• Drain the water from your pot once cooked. Use a potato masher to mash them until smooth.
• Add in salted butter, kosher salt, and half & half (or coconut milk). Mash again until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

• Once your onions are caramelized, remove half and set aside.
• Mix the remaining caramelized onions into your mashed potatoes along with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with remaining caramelized onions, chopped chives, thyme, sage, and melted butter. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes topped with caramelized onions are perfect for any occasion. Here are some great ideas for serving them.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Serve alongside a medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious meal.

As a Base for Protein

• Pair these mashed potatoes with grilled chicken, turkey, or beef for a hearty main dish that complements the rich flavors.

Topped with Gravy

• Drizzle some homemade or store-bought gravy over the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor and moisture.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the dish’s aroma and presentation.

In a Casserole

• Layer these mashed potatoes in a baking dish with cooked veggies and cheese for a comforting potato casserole.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your mashed potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their creamy texture makes them ideal for mashing, giving you smooth and buttery results.

• Caramelize Slowly: Take your time with the onions. Cooking them on low heat allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in rich flavor.

• Warm Your Dairy: Heat the half & half or dairy-free milk before adding it to the potatoes; this keeps everything warm and helps achieve creaminess.

• Don’t Over-Mash: Mash just until combined to keep your potatoes from becoming gluey. A few lumps add character.

• Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is delightful, try other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic complement the richness of the mashed potatoes beautifully.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness that balances the flavors of the dish.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate.

4. Grilled Zucchini: Marinated zucchini grilled until slightly charred brings out its natural sweetness and adds texture.

5. Classic Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to creamy potatoes.

6. Herbed Quinoa: Lightly seasoned quinoa adds protein and nutty flavor while keeping the meal gluten-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using Raw Onions: Skipping the caramelization process can result in overpowering flavors. Take the time to caramelize your onions slowly for a sweet and rich taste.
• Overcooking the Potatoes: Cooking potatoes for too long can make them gummy. Boil until fork-tender, about 20 minutes, for the best texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season your mashed potatoes can lead to blandness. Be sure to add salt and taste as you go!
• Not Mashing Enough: If you don’t mash the potatoes sufficiently, they may remain lumpy. Mash thoroughly for a creamy consistency.
• Ignoring Dairy Alternatives: If you’re aiming for dairy-free, forgetting to use non-dairy alternatives can affect flavor and creaminess. Opt for full-fat coconut milk or non-dairy butter as substitutes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best if used within 3-5 days.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil until warm, about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes:

Can I use other types of potatoes?

You can use any type of potato, but Yukon Gold gives a creamy texture. Russets work well too!

How do I make these mashed potatoes vegan?

Substitute salted butter with non-dairy butter and use full-fat coconut milk or another non-dairy milk.

What should I serve with Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as part of your Thanksgiving spread.

Can I prepare these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and simply reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them by adding different herbs or even spices like garlic powder for an extra kick. Give this recipe a try; your family will love it!