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 various occasions like Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The caramelized onions add a deep, savory sweetness that elevates traditional mashed potatoes.
• Creamy Texture: Using half & half or coconut milk creates an ultra-smooth consistency that everyone will love.
• Herbaceous Touch: Fresh chives, thyme, and sage add vibrant flavor and freshness to every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Pair these mashed potatoes with chicken, beef, or lamb for a complete meal any day of the week.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it’s easy to whip up this delicious side.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the potatoes evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for caramelizing onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Potato masher: Ensures you achieve that creamy texture without lumps.

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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 slicing them thinly. It may look like a lot of onions, but that’s part of the flavor!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. Once hot, add in the sliced onions.
3. Stir occasionally until they are browned and caramelized, about 40–50 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

1. While onions are cooking, wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly.
2. Chop them into small pieces; peeling is optional based on your texture preference.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes

1. In a large pot, bring 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 excess water from the pot after cooking the potatoes.
2. Use a potato masher to mash them until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 7: Add Caramelized Onions

1. Remove half of the caramelized onions from skillet and mix them into your mashed potato mixture along with grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Serve!

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

Enjoy your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes as an unforgettable side dish!

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal. They pair beautifully with various dishes and can be served in numerous ways to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• Roasted chicken brings out the savory flavors of the mashed potatoes, creating a comforting plate.

Top with Gravy

• Drizzling homemade or store-bought gravy over the mashed potatoes adds moisture and enhances the overall taste.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Fresh steamed broccoli or green beans provide a vibrant color contrast and add nutrients to your meal.

Incorporate into Shepherd’s Pie

• Use these mashed potatoes as a topping for shepherd’s pie, layering them over seasoned meat and vegetables for an extra indulgent dish.

Present as a Base for Beef Stew

• The creamy texture of mashed potatoes makes them an excellent base for hearty beef stew, soaking up all the delicious juices.

Garnish with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkling additional fresh herbs like parsley or more chives on top adds freshness and visual appeal to your dish.

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

Creating the perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out amazing every time:

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their natural creaminess makes them ideal for mashing, resulting in rich and smooth potatoes.

• Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time when caramelizing onions; low heat allows their natural sugars to develop fully, enhancing flavor.

• Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh herbs and quality butter or dairy alternatives for the best taste.

• Mash While Hot: Mashing the potatoes while they’re still warm helps achieve a smoother consistency without becoming gummy.

• Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of half & half or coconut milk based on your desired creaminess level.

• Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes complement many side dishes perfectly. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Adds a crunchy texture and garlic flavor that pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes.

2. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots complement the savory depth of the onions in the mashed potatoes nicely.

3. Creamed Spinach: This rich side provides a creamy contrast, balancing out the dish’s flavors beautifully.

4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini offers freshness and brightness, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.

5. Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Reduction: The tangy-sweet balsamic glaze elevates Brussels sprouts and complements the richness of the mashed potatoes.

6. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks: These add an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with caramelized onion notes in your mash.

7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with grains or veggies, these provide a colorful and nutritious side that goes well with any main course.

8. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with savory mashed potatoes, making for an exciting combination on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mashed potatoes may seem simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you create the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes.

• Not cooking onions long enough: Ensure that you caramelize the onions for 40-50 minutes. This enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Overboiling potatoes: Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, but avoid overcooking them to prevent a watery mash. Aim for about 20 minutes.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to salt your water when boiling potatoes. This is crucial for flavoring the potatoes from the inside out.
• Using cold dairy products: Warm your butter and milk before adding them to the potatoes. This helps achieve a creamy texture without cooling down your mash.
• Forgetting texture preferences: Decide if you prefer a smooth or chunky mash before starting. Adjust your mashing technique accordingly.
• Neglecting toppings: The toppings can elevate your dish! Always finish with extra caramelized onions, herbs, and melted butter for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller servings for easy reheating.

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F; place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through (about 30 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot (about 2-4 minutes).
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently; add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these mashed potatoes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, making them perfect for this recipe.

How do I ensure my mashed potatoes are creamy?

Warm your dairy ingredients before mixing them in, and consider using a potato ricer for an ultra-smooth texture.

Can I customize the flavors in these mashed potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted garlic, different herbs, or even cheese varieties like cheddar or feta for unique flavors.

Are these mashed potatoes gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Final Thoughts

The Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes bring comfort food to new heights with their rich flavors and creamy texture. They’re perfect not just for Thanksgiving but any occasion where you want to impress guests. Feel free to customize with additional herbs or spices according to your taste!