These Vegan Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are creamy, dreamy, and full of flavor! The sweet taste of caramelized onions adds a nice twist to classic mashed potatoes.
They’re perfect for any meal, making everyone feel warm and cozy! I love how easy they are to whip up—just boil, mash, and mix! Your taste buds will thank you. 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to; they’re buttery and creamy. However, Russet potatoes also work well and give a fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb alternative, try cauliflower—just steam and blend!
Onions: Yellow onions are fantastic for caramelization. Their sweetness increases when cooked slowly. If you’re in a pinch, sweet onions like Vidalia can replace them for a similar flavor.
Olive Oil: I prefer olive oil for its rich flavor, but any neutral oil like avocado or canola will do. If you want a buttery taste, try using vegan butter for caramelizing the onions instead.
Plant-Based Milk: Almond milk is my favorite choice for its lightness, but soy or oat milk can offer a creamier consistency. If you need a nut-free option, go for oat or rice milk!
Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme can work too—just use about one-third less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions transforms their flavor and makes your dish truly special. The key is patience. Here are steps to ensure your onions caramelize beautifully:
- Heat a skillet on medium-low and add olive oil.
- Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Stir to coat.
- Let them cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown.
- In the last 2 minutes, mix in minced garlic and thyme for extra flavor.
Remember, the slower you cook, the sweeter and richer the flavor. It’s worth the wait!
Vegan Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cut into chunks
- For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- For the Mashed Potato Mixture:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk), warmed
- 3 tbsp vegan butter or margarine
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and 35 minutes cooking, including the time to caramelize the onions and boil the potatoes. Sit back and enjoy the lovely aroma as it all comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the minced garlic and thyme leaves. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
While the onions are caramelizing, place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
3. Prepare the Mash:
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the warm pot. Add the vegan butter and gradually pour in the warmed plant-based milk while mashing the potatoes until you reach a creamy consistency you love.
4. Combine Flavors:
Stir half of the caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes. Make sure to adjust the salt and pepper to taste—this is where you can make it perfect for your palate!
5. Serve:
Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top them with the remaining caramelized onions and garnish with extra fresh thyme to add a lovely touch.
6. Enjoy:
Serve these delicious mashed potatoes warm as a delightful vegan side dish with your favorite meal. They’re rich, creamy, and packed with flavor from the sweet caramelized onions. Your taste buds will thank you!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are the best options for a creamy mash, you can also use red potatoes for a chunkier texture. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may yield slightly different flavors and creaminess.
What If I Can’t Find Vegan Butter?
No problem! You can replace vegan butter with additional olive oil or coconut oil. If you want a buttery flavor, you can add a splash of nutritional yeast to your mashed potatoes for that savory taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of plant-based milk to get them creamy again and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and caramelize the onions in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently, adding a little more plant-based milk if needed for creaminess.
