Onion Mashed Potatoes

Any mashed potato lover probably has a few different recipes that put a different spin on this classic side dish. Once you try these onion mashed potatoes, you might just have a new favorite take. It’s one of our favorite new ways to make mashed potatoes because the onions add a deep flavor and sweetness that complements the buttery, rich potatoes.

These mashed potatoes with onions are easy to make and require few ingredients. They make a perfect addition to a holiday table with other Thanksgiving recipes, but they would also be welcome on the table any day of the year.

Ingredients for Onion Mashed Potatoes

• Potatoes: You’ll need four medium potatoes, and they should be peeled and cubed.
• Onion: Yellow or white onions are the best types of onion for mashed potatoes and onions. Make sure the onion is very thinly sliced.
• Sugar: A teaspoon of sugar is an unexpected ingredient in mashed potatoes, but it helps to caramelize the onions.
• Butter: For rich mashed potatoes, don’t be afraid to be generous with the butter. A bit more is most welcome here.
• Milk: Make sure the milk you use for these mashed potatoes is warm so it blends easily with the potatoes.
• Parsley: Minced fresh parsley is an optional (but highly recommended) garnish for mashed potatoes. If you end up with a lot of extra parsley, don’t worry; there are plenty of ways to use up parsley.

Directions

Step 1: Boil the potatoes

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Place the potatoes in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are very tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the onion

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Meanwhile, in a skillet over low heat, cook the onion and sugar in butter until the onion turns golden, stirring frequently.

Editor’s Tip: Cooking the onions with sugar helps them caramelize more quickly. If you’ve never cooked onions until they’re this soft and golden, read up on how to caramelize onions.

Step 3: Mash the potatoes

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Drain and mash the potatoes. Add the milk, salt and pepper. Stir in the onion mixture, and garnish with parsley if desired.

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Recipe Variations

• Skip the onion: While this is a mashed potato and onion recipe, you could omit the onions. You’d still have an excellent basic mashed potato recipe.
• Go vegan: You can use an unsweetened nondairy milk alternative and nondairy butter, and the mashed potatoes will still taste great.
• Add some bacon: Finely chopped cooked bacon is a wonderful addition to mashed potatoes. Mix it in right as you finish cooking the onion.

How to Store Onion Mashed Potatoes

These mashed potatoes can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium on the stove. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

Can you make onion mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely, you could prepare these mashed potatoes a few hours or even a day in advance. Heat them up on the stovetop when it’s time for your feast.

Can you freeze mashed potatoes with onions?

Mashed potatoes can be frozen for up to three months. Scoop portions of the mashed potatoes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and put the baking sheet in the freezer. Once the potatoes are fully frozen, transfer them to freezer containers.

Onion Mashed Potatoes Tips

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What should you serve with mashed potatoes and onions?

Mashed potatoes and onions taste great with all your Thanksgiving favorites, like roasted turkey, green beans, stuffing, and more. They also accompany grilled meat and barbecue dishes quite well.

Why are my mashed potatoes gummy?

If your mashed potatoes are gummy, you may have overworked them while mashing them. You only want to mash them enough that all large lumps are broken apart and all the ingredients are well combined.