“Elevate your mashed potatoes with the savory sweetness of caramelized onions!”
Indulging in a bowl of mashed potatoes can evoke warm, comforting memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. That’s why I am so excited to share my recipe for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes. These mashed potatoes transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for holidays or any weeknight meal. Say goodbye to bland mash, and let’s dive into this flavorful twist that will transport your taste buds straight to comfort food heaven!
Table of Contents
Why Should You Try Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes Now?
Caramelized onion mashed potatoes are perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.
This dish not only embodies heartwarming comfort food, but it also celebrates the flavors of the season. The beautiful harmony between the creamy potatoes and sweet, caramelized onions creates a delightful side that pairs perfectly with your favorite proteins or stands alone as a star dish. With just a handful of ingredients, you can elevate your weeknight meals or impress your guests at dinner parties. The ease of preparation makes this recipe family-friendly, ensuring everyone can join in the fun. I love serving these alongside my classic green bean casserole for a complete meal!
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Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the savory sweetness of caramelized onions for a dish that’s fluffy, flavorful, and unforgettable.
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add sliced onions, and sauté until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once potatoes are tender, drain and return to pot. Mix in sour cream and milk, mashing until smooth. Fold in caramelized onions, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.
Notes
These mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently in a pot, adding milk if needed for creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
What Makes This Mashed Potato Recipe Unique?
This version stands out due to the rich sweetness of caramelized onions, adding depth to the dish.
Innovative Flavor Profile
When you think of mashed potatoes, you might imagine a simple, butter-laden dish. However, adding caramelized onions introduces a beautiful complexity that transforms this staple side. As the onions cook down, they develop a silky texture and deepen in flavor, moving from sharp and pungent to sweet and pleasantly savory.
Healthier Ingredients
By integrating sour cream and milk instead of heavy cream or excessive butter, we’re keeping the dish on the lighter side while still delivering an indulgent experience. This way, you can enjoy a greater portion without the guilt!
Versatile and Adaptable
This recipe allows for countless modifications, whether you’re trying to go vegan or simply want to add herbs for an extra flair. It can be a canvas for your culinary creativity, making it easy to mix and match with any family recipe. For more culinary tips, check out this Wikipedia article on onions that dives deeper into the many varieties you can use!
What Ingredients Do You Need for Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?
You’ll need simple ingredients that collectively create a sensational dish.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 2 pounds, peeled and cubed |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 large, thinly sliced |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
The star here is the caramelized onion, which adds a delightful sweetness, balancing the richness of the potatoes. Potatoes are rich in potassium and vitamin C and serve as the perfect base for the harmonious flavors at play. If you prefer a dairy-free option, consider using almond milk and a plant-based yogurt as substitutes! For more comforting flavors, you might want to check this vegetable pot pie recipe.
How Do You Make Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes Step-by-Step?
Creating this dish is a straightforward process that results in rich, creamy potatoes.
Step 1
Start by boiling the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook them until tender (about 15-20 minutes), ensuring they can be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 2
While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become golden brown and caramelized, roughly 15-20 minutes. Stir them occasionally, allowing them to develop their natural sweetness.
Step 3
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot. Mix in the sour cream and milk, mashing until smooth and creamy. Next, gently fold in the caramelized onions, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the potatoes.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 45 minutes |
To finish, season with salt and pepper to taste. These mashed potatoes are best served warm and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for holiday dinners!
What Variations Can You Try with Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes?
There are endless possibilities to give this dish your personal flair!
Diet Swap
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil, sour cream with cashew cream, and milk with your preferred plant-based milk. You’ll still achieve those luscious and creamy textures!
Flavor Variation
Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch, or try mixing in freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy kick. Infusing garlic while caramelizing the onions can add yet another layer of flavor that is simply divine.
If you want even more comforting ideas, take a look at this green bean casserole recipe.
Serving Ideas
These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or even as a luxurious base for mushroom gravy. Feel free to serve them family-style, garnished with fresh herbs for an added touch.
| Suggested Pairings |
|---|
| Roasted chicken |
| Grilled steak |
| Vegetarian mushroom gravy |
Final Thoughts
This recipe for Best Ever Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes is not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about creating unforgettable moments at your table. The warmth of the caramelized onions paired with the creaminess of perfectly mashed potatoes embodies everything a side dish should be, comforting and delightful. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, though, let’s be honest, they may not last that long!
If you’re ready to take your mashed potatoes to the next level, give this recipe a try! Don’t forget to share your experiences on Pinterest, I can’t wait to see your creations! Check out my Pinterest board for more delicious inspiration.
FAQ
Can I make caramelized onion mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These mashed potatoes can be prepared a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them gently in a pot, adding a splash of milk to regain that creamy texture.
What type of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for making mashed potatoes because they have a starchy content that leads to a creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can create a gluey texture.
How do I ensure my mashed potatoes are creamy?
To achieve creamy mashed potatoes, make sure to not over-mash them as it can make them gummy. Use warm milk and room temperature butter when mixing to keep them light and fluffy.
Can I add more flavors to the mashed potatoes?
Definitely! You can add roasted garlic, cheese, or fresh herbs like chives and parsley for more flavor depth. Experiment with what you love to customize the dish!
What should I serve with caramelized onion mashed potatoes?
These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted meats, hearty stews, and rich vegetarian dishes. They make an excellent side for a variety of proteins or can be enjoyed on their own.
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