French Onion Mashed Potatoes

Y’all know I love my mashed potatoes. They’re comfort food central here in Texas, especially when the weather starts to cool down. Last week, I was craving something a little different, something with a bit more oomph than my usual creamy potatoes. My solution? These French Onion Mashed Potatoes! Imagine the savory sweetness of caramelized onions, swirled into fluffy, buttery mashed potatoes. I’ve made this version at least five times in my kitchen, tweaking it until it was just right for my family (and picky eaters!). This recipe promises a flavorful twist on a classic side dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy mom of two, I need recipes that are both delicious and practical. These French Onion Mashed Potatoes hit all the right notes. They’re:

• Flavor-Packed: The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that takes ordinary mashed potatoes to the next level.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can caramelize the onions ahead of time, making this recipe even quicker to prepare on a busy weeknight.
• Kid-Approved: Even my kids, who can be a little picky about vegetables, love the sweet and savory combination.

Seriously, after testing this recipe countless times, I’m confident you’ll find this is a simple but impressive side for any meal!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Yukon Gold Potatoes: I prefer Yukon Golds because they have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. Russet potatoes will also work, but they tend to be a bit drier, so you might need to add more liquid.

Yellow Onions: Yellow onions are the classic choice for caramelizing because they have a good balance of sweetness and savory flavor. You can substitute with sweet onions like Vidalia if you prefer a sweeter taste.

Heavy Cream & Milk: The combination of heavy cream and milk creates a rich and creamy consistency. You can use all milk or all cream, depending on your preference. For a lighter option, try using half-and-half.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions. While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown and caramelized. Sprinkle with sugar during the last 10 minutes of cooking to help them caramelize and bring out their natural sweetness. Be patient; the key to perfect caramelized onions is low and slow cooking.

Step 3: Drain the Potatoes. Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash with a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, mixing until the potatoes are light and fluffy. Don’t overmix, or they can become gluey.

Step 5: Combine and Serve. Stir in the caramelized onions until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired. Serve immediately and watch your family devour them!

Storage & Meal Prep

Storage: Store leftover French Onion Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Make-Ahead: You can caramelize the onions up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them briefly before adding them to the mashed potatoes. The potatoes themselves can be mashed a day ahead and reheated, but they’re best when freshly made.

Substitutions & Variations

Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives such as almond milk or oat milk.

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Garlic Lovers: Add a clove or two of minced garlic to the onions during the last few minutes of caramelizing.

Cheesy Potatoes: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyere or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a food processor to mash the potatoes?

While a food processor will certainly mash potatoes, it can easily overwork them, resulting in a gluey texture. I highly recommend using a potato masher or hand mixer for the best results.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming gummy?

The key is to avoid overmixing. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly and let them sit for a minute or two to allow any excess moisture to evaporate. When mashing, gently fold in the milk and cream until just combined.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions up to two days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also mash the potatoes ahead of time, but they will taste best if freshly made.

What kind of onions are best for caramelizing?

Yellow onions are my go-to choice for caramelizing because they have a balanced sweet and savory flavor. You can also use sweet onions like Vidalia for a sweeter taste.

Can I freeze mashed potatoes?

While you can freeze mashed potatoes, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To minimize any changes, use a higher fat content milk or cream when making them. Place the cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Are these mashed potatoes kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The caramelized onions add a subtle sweetness that kids love. You can also adjust the amount of onions to suit your children’s preferences.

Serving Suggestions

These French Onion Mashed Potatoes are a perfect side dish for just about any main course. They pair wonderfully with:

• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Grilled steak or pork chops
• Meatloaf
• Vegetarian dishes like lentil loaf or stuffed bell peppers

For a simple yet elegant presentation, spoon the mashed potatoes into a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chives and a drizzle of olive oil.

Y’all, I hope you give these French Onion Mashed Potatoes a try! They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to elevate a classic comfort food. Let me know in the comments how they turn out for you, and don’t forget to share your own variations! Be sure to check out my other family-favorite recipes here on FamiliesRecipes.com, and sign up for my newsletter so you never miss a new one. Happy cooking, y’all!

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