Caramelized Onions Mashed Potatoes

Caramelized Onions Mashed Potatoes combine creamy, smooth potatoes with the rich sweetness of golden, slow-cooked onions. This flavorful side dish is perfect for any meal and offers a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. 

Mashed potatoes are a go-to comfort food just like our reader's favorite Roasted Butternut Squash Mash. These caramelized onion mashed potatoes are so creamy and full of flavor. They are completely dairy-free, making them a great choice for vegans or anyone wanting to try something new! 

The onions' natural sweetness blends beautifully with the smooth potatoes, creating an irresistible side dish that's easy to make and sure to impress at any meal.  

Jump to:

• Why Caramelized Onions? 
• Ingredients You’ll Need
• How to Make Caramelized Onions Mashed Potatoes 
• Serving Suggestions
• More Potatoes Recipes
• Caramelized Onions Mashed Potatoes

Why Caramelized Onions? 

Caramelized onions bring a deep, rich flavor to any dish they touch, and in these mashed potatoes, they add a savory-sweet complexity. Cooking onions slowly over medium heat draws out their natural sugars, transforming them into a golden, sweet masterpiece. Pair that with creamy mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a side dish that’ll impress at any meal. 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Potatoes: Yukon Golds offer a naturally buttery texture, while Russets are known for being light and fluffy. You can use either, or even a combination of both. I opt for Russet potatoes for a fluffier mash. 
• Onions: I prefer red onions for their deeper, sweeter flavor when caramelized, but white or yellow onions work just as well. 
• Olive Oil: Any neutral, plant-based oil works perfectly for caramelizing the onions. 
• Vegan Butter: Vegan butter adds creaminess and richness. If you're not following a plant-based diet, you can easily substitute with regular butter or other alternatives. 
• Almond Milk: Almond or oat milk lends creaminess without altering the flavor. These are my go-to options for plant-based milk. 
• Salt and Pepper
• Fresh Herbs (Optional): A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness. 

How to Make Caramelized Onions Mashed Potatoes 

Preparation   

Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes, then rinse thoroughly in cold water. Next, peel the onions and slice them thinly. Chop the parsley and set it aside. 

Cook the Potatoes 

Place the potato cubes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous amount of salt. The salt seasons the potatoes as they cook, which makes a big difference in the final flavor. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are really soft and almost falling apart. This ensures they mash smoothly and easily. 

Caramelize the Onions 

While your potatoes are cooking, start caramelizing the onions. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for about 20-25 minutes. The onions will turn soft, golden, and slightly sweet. If they start to stick to the pan, don’t worry—just add a splash of water or a little more oil to prevent burning. 

Mash the Potatoes 

Once the potatoes are done, drain them and return them to the pot. Grab your potato masher and start mashing until they’re smooth and creamy. If you like an ultra-smooth consistency, press the mashed potatoes through a sieve. But if you prefer a little texture, a simple mash works just fine! 

Combine the Onions and Potatoes 

Next, add the remaining olive oil or vegan butter and the non-dairy milk to the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Carefully fold in the caramelized onions, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout. Add more milk if you like your potatoes creamier, but be careful not to overmix—the starch in the potatoes can turn them gummy if overworked. 

For the finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. The herbs add a nice pop of color and a touch of freshness that brightens the dish. 

Serving Suggestions

These caramelized onions mashed potatoes are perfect for any occasion. They pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, vegan meatloaf, or even a simple green salad. The sweetness of the onions contrasts perfectly with savory mains, making them a great side for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or special gatherings. 

More Potatoes Recipes

If you like this recipe you may also like

• Onions and Potatoes Skillet 
• Vegan Smashed Potatoes
• Potato And Rice
• Roasted Broccoli And Potatoes
• Vegan Loaded Fries

The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and sweet, golden caramelized onions makes for an irresistible dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a flavorful twist on a classic side, and once you try it, you may never go back to plain mashed potatoes again! Whether you’re serving this dish for a family meal or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone around the table. 

Enjoy the rich, savory-sweet goodness in every bite!  

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