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.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of caramelized onions and fresh herbs elevates classic mashed potatoes to a new level of deliciousness.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any meal—from casual dinners to festive occasions like Thanksgiving.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these mashed potatoes can be whipped up by cooks of all skill levels.
• Comfort Food Redefined: The creamy texture and rich flavor make this dish an ideal comfort food that everyone will love.
• Nutrition Boost: Packed with fiber from the skin-on Yukon Golds and nutrients from fresh herbs, this dish is not just tasty but nourishing too.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Crucial for caramelizing onions evenly, allowing them to develop deep flavors.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling potatoes, ensuring even cooking and tenderness.
• Potato masher: Helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency without lumps.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely slicing onions and chopping herbs with precision.

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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 thinly slicing them. It will look like a lot of onions, but that is okay!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add in the olive oil once hot.
3. Stir occasionally until the onions are browned and caramelized, about 40-50 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. While the onions are cooking, wash the potatoes thoroughly.
2. Chop them into small pieces; peeling is optional for added texture.
3. Heat a pot of water until it reaches a rolling boil and add in the chopped potatoes.
4. Cook for about 20 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

1. Drain water from the pot once cooked.
2. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher until smooth.

Step 5: Add Flavorful Ingredients

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

Step 6: Combine with Caramelized Onions

1. Once caramelized, remove half of the onions from heat and add them to the mashed potatoes along with grated parmesan cheese.
2. Stir well to ensure even distribution.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

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

How to Serve Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These creamy and flavorful Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are a wonderful addition to any meal. Their rich taste makes them versatile enough to pair with various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve these mashed potatoes alongside juicy grilled chicken for a classic comfort meal. The savory flavors of the chicken complement the sweetness of the caramelized onions perfectly.

As a Base for Beef Stew

• Use these mashed potatoes as a delicious base for hearty beef stew. The tender texture and rich flavor soak up the stew, creating a satisfying dish.

Topped with Roasted Vegetables

• For a lighter option, top your mashed potatoes with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers. This adds color and nutrition while balancing the creaminess of the potatoes.

Alongside Turkey Meatballs

• Pair these mashed potatoes with turkey meatballs in a savory sauce for a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. The flavors marry beautifully, making every bite enjoyable.

With Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops

• These mashed potatoes make an ideal side for herb-crusted lamb chops. The creamy texture enhances the robust flavors of the lamb, creating an elegant meal.

As Part of a Holiday Spread

• Serve this dish during special occasions or holidays as part of your dinner spread. They will be a crowd-pleaser that everyone looks forward to enjoying!

How to Perfect Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

To ensure your Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a buttery flavor and creamy texture that make them ideal for mashing.
• Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time when cooking the onions; slow caramelization results in richer flavors and better texture.
• Mash While Hot: Mash the potatoes while they are still hot for the smoothest consistency.
• Adjust Creaminess: Customize the creaminess by adding more half & half or coconut milk until you achieve your desired texture.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs not only enhances flavor but also adds freshness and brightness to the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes pair well with many delicious side dishes that can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This flavorful side adds crunch and complements the creamy potatoes beautifully.
2. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide color and freshness alongside your main dish.
3. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet honey-glazed carrots add sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing your plate’s appeal.
4. Creamy Spinach Salad: A spinach salad dressed in a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to rich mashed potatoes.
5. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze bring tangy flavor to balance the dish’s richness.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice add both nutrition and visual appeal to your table.
7. Crispy Cauliflower Bites: Lightly breaded cauliflower bites provide crunch and serve as an excellent finger food option.
8. Beet Salad: A salad featuring roasted beets adds earthiness that pairs well with sweet caramelized onions in the mashed potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making mashed potatoes may seem simple, but there are a few pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold onions – Allowing the onions to cook too quickly can lead to uneven caramelization. Stir them regularly and keep the heat at medium for the best flavor.

• Bold potato prep – Not cutting potatoes into evenly sized pieces can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform chunks to ensure they cook thoroughly and evenly.

• Bold mashing technique – Over-mashing the potatoes can make them gummy. Use a gentle hand to achieve a smooth texture without overworking them.

• Bold ingredient temperature – Adding cold butter or milk can cool down your mashed potatoes. Ensure these ingredients are at room temperature for a creamy finish.

• Bold seasoning oversight – Forgetting to season at each stage can lead to bland potatoes. Add salt during cooking and adjust seasoning before serving for maximum flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Freezing Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

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

Reheating Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

You can prepare everything up to the final mixing stage ahead of time. Store the mashed potatoes separately from the caramelized onions, then combine before serving.

What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?

Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor, making them ideal for the Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes.

Can I customize my Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs like rosemary or spices such as garlic powder for added flavor.

How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being watery?

Make sure you drain your potatoes well after boiling and avoid adding too much liquid all at once when mashing.

Final Thoughts

These Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes offer a delightful twist on a classic side dish with their rich flavors and creamy texture. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is versatile enough for customization—feel free to experiment with herbs or different cheeses! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!