French Onion Mashed Potatoes

Name: French Onion Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds potatoes (peeled and quartered); 2 tablespoons butter (divided); 1 cup milk; 1 cup caramelized onions (see prep steps); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

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By: Maria
Posted: 01/05/2025

French Onion Mashed Potatoes combine two beloved comfort foods—creamy mashed potatoes and the savory flavor of French Onion Soup. The result is a rich, buttery, and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a holiday dinner staple. This recipe takes classic mashed potatoes to the next level with caramelized onions and melted cheese mixed right in.

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Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

3 lbs (1.4 kg) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste

For the French Onion Mix

2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1/4 cup (60 ml) beef broth
1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Gruyère cheese

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

While the potatoes are cooking, heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Add the beef broth and cook for another 2 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes

Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the butter, milk, and sour cream. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine

Gently fold the caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the top and stir lightly until the cheese melts into the hot potatoes.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the French Onion Mashed Potatoes hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Notes

For an extra-cheesy version, add more Gruyère or top with shredded mozzarella and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.
Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture, but Russet potatoes can also be used.
If you prefer a deeper flavor, substitute the beef broth with a splash of red wine while caramelizing the onions.

Conclusion

These French Onion Mashed Potatoes are a rich and decadent twist on a classic dish, delivering the savory flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese in every bite. Perfect for a holiday feast or a comforting weeknight meal, they’re sure to impress your family and guests alike!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the French Onion Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the mashed potatoes and the caramelized onions separately a day or two in advance. Store the mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently in a saucepan on the stovetop with a little extra milk or cream to restore creaminess. The caramelized onions can also be stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine the reheated potatoes and onions, and add the cheese. You can also assemble the entire dish and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to warm through.

What substitutions can I make for the ingredients in this recipe?

You can substitute Russet potatoes for Yukon Golds, although the texture will be slightly different; Russets tend to be fluffier. For the milk or cream, you can use any type of milk, but the higher the fat content, the creamier the potatoes will be. If you don’t have beef broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water when caramelizing the onions, though the flavor will be slightly less rich. Gruyère cheese can be replaced with Swiss, Emmental, or a combination of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan.

How do I know when the onions are perfectly caramelized and the potatoes are cooked?

The onions are perfectly caramelized when they are a deep golden brown color, soft, and have a sweet, slightly sticky texture. This process usually takes about 20-25 minutes, with occasional stirring. The potatoes are cooked when they are easily pierced with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart. The cooking time for the potatoes is typically 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the cubes.

Can I double or triple this recipe to serve a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe. When doubling, use a larger pot for the potatoes and a larger skillet for the onions. Increase the cooking times slightly, particularly for caramelizing the onions, as the increased volume will take longer to cook. Be sure your pot is large enough to comfortably mash the potatoes with the added ingredients. For a triple batch, you may need to cook the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.

What are the nutritional benefits of this French Onion Mashed Potatoes recipe?

This dish offers several nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Onions are rich in antioxidants and prebiotics. The milk and sour cream contribute calcium and protein. The Gruyère cheese adds calcium and some protein. While this dish is rich in flavor and calories, it provides essential nutrients and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

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French Onion Mashed Potatoes

A savory twist on classic mashed potatoes featuring caramelized onions and rich flavors.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds potatoes peeled and quartered
2 tablespoons butter divided
1 cup milk
1 cup caramelized onions see prep steps
1 teaspoon salt to taste
1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Caramelize the onions: In a pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
Boil the potatoes: In a large pot, cover potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 20 minutes.
Mash the potatoes: Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Add remaining butter and milk. Mash until smooth.
Combine and serve: Stir in caramelized onions, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.