These Vegan Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are creamy and packed with flavor! Sweet caramelized onions mix perfectly with fluffy potatoes for a hearty side dish.
They’re a hit at any meal, and trust me, they disappear fast! I love making a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. Who knew mashed potatoes could be this yummy? 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use Russet potatoes instead, but they might result in a fluffier mash.
Yellow Onions: Yellow onions add sweetness when caramelized. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, try using sweet onions, like Vidalia. For a sharper taste, go with red onions.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different taste.
Plant-Based Milk: Almond, soy, or oat milk works great, but you can use any other non-dairy milk you prefer. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to keep the flavors balanced.
Vegan Butter: This adds richness. If unavailable, you can substitute with more olive oil or coconut oil. Just keep the quantities similar.
How Do I Get the Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions can feel tricky, but with patience, you’ll get a deliciously sweet result. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large skillet over medium-low heat. This helps the onions cook evenly.
- Add the olive oil and let it heat before adding the sliced onions.
- Cook the onions slowly, stirring every 5-10 minutes. This allows the sugars to develop without burning.
- After 30-40 minutes, they should be golden brown and sweet. If they stick, add a splash of water to help loosen them.
Remember, low and slow is the way to go for the best flavor! These caramelized onions can also be made in advance and added to various dishes.
Vegan Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves or rosemary (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare the potatoes, plus another 30-40 minutes to caramelize the onions. In total, you should set aside about 1 hour for this delicious dish, which gives you creamy mashed potatoes bursting with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes into a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
2. Caramelizing the Onions:
While the potatoes are cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become a deep golden brown color and caramelize, which will take about 30-40 minutes. If you’re using garlic, add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt to help the onions release their moisture and enhance their flavor.
3. Preparing the Mashed Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well, and return them to the pot or a mixing bowl. In a small saucepan, warm the plant-based milk and vegan butter together until the butter is melted. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer, gradually adding the warm milk and butter mixture until you reach a creamy consistency.
4. Mixing in the Flavors:
Stir in half of the caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes and season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. This is where you infuse the delicious onion flavor into your creamy potatoes!
5. Serving the Dish:
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with the remaining caramelized onions for that final touch of flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh thyme leaves or rosemary.
6. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy the rich, sweet flavors of these vegan caramelized onion mashed potatoes. They’re perfect as a side dish for any meal, and they make a comforting addition to your table!
This recipe creates creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes enhanced by the sweet depth of caramelized onions. It’s effortlessly vegan and sure to please everyone around the dinner table!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for their creamy texture, you can also use Russet potatoes for a fluffier option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency might vary slightly.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Quickly?
If you’re short on time, slice the onions thinner and cook them over medium heat rather than low. Keep an eye on them and stir more frequently to prevent burning. Just remember that authentic caramelization takes time for optimal flavor!
Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of plant-based milk if needed to restore creaminess.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month; just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.