Discover the ultimate comfort food with our mouthwatering "Mashed Potatoes with Carrots and Caramelized Onions." This delightful twist on a classic dish combines the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with the sweetness of carrots and the rich flavor of caramelized onions, making it a perfect side for any meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe will elevate your dining experience and leave your guests asking for seconds. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by washing, peeling, and cutting potatoes into 1-inch cubes, dice carrots into small uniform pieces, and thinly slice the onion into half-moon shapes.
- Fill a large pot with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and place cubed potatoes and diced carrots into the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for approximately 15-18 minutes until vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
- While potatoes and carrots are cooking, heat a separate skillet over medium-low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, allowing onions to caramelize and turn golden brown, which will take about 20-25 minutes.
- Once potatoes and carrots are cooked, drain thoroughly in a colander, then return to the original pot. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and warm milk.
- Mash the potatoes and carrots using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold the caramelized onions into the mashed potato-carrot mixture, reserving some for garnish if desired.
- Transfer to a serving dish, top with remaining caramelized onions, and serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the creamiest mashed potatoes, opt for starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. They mash beautifully and create a fluffy texture.
- Uniform Cutting: Ensure that your potatoes and carrots are cut into similar sizes to promote even cooking. This helps achieve that perfect tenderness.
- Don’t Rush the Onions: Caramelizing onions requires patience. Cook them slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, to develop their natural sweetness and golden color.
- Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of milk and butter to achieve your desired creaminess. For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half instead of milk.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Start with a little salt and pepper, and adjust according to your preference. The caramelized onions will also add a depth of flavor, so keep that in mind.
- Garnish Creatively: Reserve some caramelized onions for garnish, but you can also add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Warm: Mashed potatoes are best enjoyed warm. If you need to make them ahead of time, keep them in a warm oven or reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
