Vegan Caramelized Onion Mashed (Print-Friendly Version)

Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this vegan mashed potato dish features slow-caramelized onions and creamy plant-based butter. Earthy, savory, and festive, it pairs well with holiday mains or classic sides. This flavorful favorite is one to keep handy.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Mashed Potatoes

01 - 6 to 7 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into large pieces
02 - 2 to 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into large pieces
03 - 6 to 8 tablespoons vegan butter, room temperature
04 - 2 tablespoons full-fat coconut milk or 2 tablespoons additional vegan butter
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Caramelized Onions

08 - 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
09 - 2 tablespoons vegan butter or neutral oil
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - Peel the russet and Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut into large, even pieces. Slice the yellow onion into thin, long strips and set aside.
02 - Transfer the potato pieces to a colander and rinse well under cold water to remove excess starch. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1/2 inch. Add a generous amount of salt to the water until it tastes notably salty.
03 - Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes, or until a fork or knife pierces through without resistance. Begin testing for doneness at 12 minutes to prevent overcooking.
04 - While the potatoes cook, heat 2 tablespoons vegan butter or oil in a frying pan over low heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté, stirring frequently, until deep golden brown—about 20 to 40 minutes, to desired depth of caramelization. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
05 - Once potatoes are tender, drain thoroughly and return to the cooking pot. While still hot, use a potato masher to roughly mash the potatoes.
06 - Add 6 to 8 tablespoons room-temperature or melted vegan butter to the mashed potatoes. For a creamier texture, add 2 tablespoons full-fat coconut milk at this stage. Continue mashing until nearly smooth, leaving some small chunks if desired. Adjust amount of butter to taste.
07 - Season the potatoes with garlic powder, additional salt, and black pepper to taste. Gently fold in the caramelized onions until well integrated.
08 - Garnish with chopped fresh thyme or pair with vegan gravy if desired. Serve warm.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For extra smooth mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer or food mill. Avoid over-mixing to prevent gluey texture.

Return