French Onion Mashed Potatoes
There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like French Onion Mashed Potatoes. I remember the first time I tried it; it was at a friend’s holiday gathering, and it was love at first bite. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes combined with the rich, caramelized flavors of sweet onions was unlike anything I had experienced before. Since that moment, I’ve made it a tradition to whip up a batch whenever I’m entertaining or just craving something hearty. There’s a certain magic that happens when you meld these two beloved dishes into one. It’s as if each spoonful brings together the warmth of a cozy French bistro and the heartiness of home. Whether you’re crafting a meal for a special occasion or simply looking to elevate your dinner routine, this dish will not disappoint.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 30 mins
70 mins
20 mins
Medium
320 kcal
5 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
16 g
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Frying Pan, Peeler
Why You Need This French Onion Mashed Potatoes
Comfort Food at Its Best
One of the reasons I adore French Onion Mashed Potatoes is its unique blend of comfort food elements. The creamy potatoes create a perfect base, while the caramelized onions add a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s like having a warm hug on a plate.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is versatile enough to shine at any gathering, from casual family dinners to elegant holiday feasts. It never fails to impress guests, and I love the way it complements virtually any entrée. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!
Customizable Flavors
While I have my favorite way of making French Onion Mashed Potatoes, the beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. You can play with the cheese, perhaps trying a sharp cheddar or even a creamy goat cheese. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the flavor profile.
Make-Ahead Convenience
Another standout feature is how well it adapts for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the potatoes in advance and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights or during holiday prep!
Delicious Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, they can be transformed into a heavenly potato cake or even a filling for savory crepes. The possibilities are endless, making French Onion Mashed Potatoes not just a meal, but a meal that keeps on giving.
Ingredients for French Onion Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to the ingredients for French Onion Mashed Potatoes, each component plays a vital role. The harmony between the creamy potatoes and the sweetness of caramelized onions creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Let’s explore the key players in this culinary delight.
- 6 tablespoons Simply Nature Organic Unsalted Butter: This butter adds richness and depth to the dish.
- 4 sweet onions, thinly sliced: The star of the show, these onions caramelize beautifully for a sweet and savory flavor.
- kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
- 5 pounds russet or yukon gold potatoes, washed and peeled: These potatoes provide a creamy base for mashing.
- 12 tablespoons Simply Nature Organic Unsalted Butter: More butter for that luscious texture.
- 1 ½ cups Friendly Farms Heavy Whipping Cream: This cream makes the potatoes incredibly smooth and rich.
- 8 ounces Emporium Selection Le Gruyere Cheese, freshly grated: A nutty cheese that melts perfectly into the potatoes.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons salt: For seasoning to taste.
- freshly ground black pepper: A dash of pepper for that subtle kick.
How to Cook French Onion Mashed Potatoes

Making French Onion Mashed Potatoes is a rewarding experience that results in a dish everyone will love. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you through creating this indulgent masterpiece.
Begin by heating butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the sliced sweet onions along with a generous pinch of kosher salt. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent any burning. You want those onions to become soft and translucent, which should take about 10 minutes.
After the initial cooking time, reduce the heat to low. This is when the magic happens! Continue to cook the onions, stirring occasionally for the next 45 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to become golden and caramelized. The longer you cook them, the sweeter they will become, transforming into a lovely jam-like consistency.
Now, while the onions are caramelizing, let’s prepare the potatoes. Wash, peel, and chop the russet or yukon gold potatoes into even-sized chunks. This ensures they cook evenly. Place the chunks in a large bowl and cover them with cold water to prevent browning. You can store them in the fridge for up to 18 hours if you like, which saves time later.
When you’re ready, drain the potatoes and place them in a large pot filled with cold water. Season the water with a generous pinch of kosher salt and bring it to a boil. Boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of your chunks. If your pieces are small, start checking around the 10-minute mark.
While the potatoes are boiling, in another saucepan, combine butter and heavy whipping cream. Heat it over medium-low until it’s warmed through. This mixture will add that creamy richness we crave in mashed potatoes.
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or ricer, start mashing them to your desired consistency. Don’t overdo it! We want them creamy, not gummy. Add in half of the warmed butter and cream mixture along with salt to taste.
If you prefer an extra smooth texture, now’s the time to use a hand mixer on low speed. Move it around constantly for just a minute or two to break up any larger chunks. Next, stir in the remaining butter and cream mixture and then fold in the gruyere cheese. Allow the cheese to melt gently into the potatoes, resulting in a beautifully creamy dish.
Finally, stir in half of the caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes, and taste for seasoning. This is your opportunity to adjust the salt and maybe add a touch of freshly ground black pepper, depending on your preference.
To serve, scoop the mashed potatoes into a serving dish and top with the remaining caramelized onions. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor if you’d like. Enjoy the rich and savory notes of your French Onion Mashed Potatoes!
Things Worth Knowing
- Caramelization: Cooking the onions slowly enhances their natural sweetness, resulting in a rich flavor.
- Potato Choice: Using russet or yukon gold potatoes provides the best texture for mashing.
- Don’t Rush the Mash: Avoid over-mixing the potatoes to keep them fluffy.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning gradually; it’s easier to add than to take away.
Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many wonderful ways to customize French Onion Mashed Potatoes to fit your taste. Here are some tips to consider:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These mashed potatoes freeze well! Just make sure to cool them completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan or microwave, adding a bit more cream or butter if needed for moisture.
- Pairing: These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetable dish.
- Variations: Try adding roasted garlic or different types of cheese for a unique twist on flavor.
What to Pair With French Onion Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Meats: Serve with roasted chicken or beef for a wholesome meal.
- Vegetable Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for balance.
- Celebratory Feasts: Ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or family reunions.
- Comforting Lunch: They make a filling base for a simple lunch, topped with sautéed greens or mushrooms.
- Storage Tips: Store in the fridge and consume within three days for the best flavor.
FAQ
Conclusion
French Onion Mashed Potatoes are a comforting blend of creamy potatoes and sweet onions that create a heartwarming dish perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the wonderful flavors that come together so beautifully. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration, these mashed potatoes will surely become a staple on your table.

French Onion Mashed Potatoes
Equipment
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Peeler
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons Simply Nature Organic Unsalted Butter
- 4 sweet onions, thinly sliced
- kosher salt
- 5 pounds russet or yukon gold potatoes, washed and peeled
- 12 tablespoons Simply Nature Organic Unsalted Butter
- 1 ½ cups Friendly Farms Heavy Whipping Cream
- 8 ounces Emporium Selection Le Gruyere Cheese, freshly grated
- 1 to 2 teaspoons salt
- freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by heating butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the sliced sweet onions along with a generous pinch of kosher salt. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent any burning. You want those onions to become soft and translucent, which should take about 10 minutes.
- After the initial cooking time, reduce the heat to low. This is when the magic happens! Continue to cook the onions, stirring occasionally for the next 45 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to become golden and caramelized. The longer you cook them, the sweeter they will become, transforming into a lovely jam-like consistency.
- Now, while the onions are caramelizing, let’s prepare the potatoes. Wash, peel, and chop the russet or yukon gold potatoes into even-sized chunks. This ensures they cook evenly. Place the chunks in a large bowl and cover them with cold water to prevent browning. You can store them in the fridge for up to 18 hours if you like, which saves time later.
- When you’re ready, drain the potatoes and place them in a large pot filled with cold water. Season the water with a generous pinch of kosher salt and bring it to a boil. Boil until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of your chunks. If your pieces are small, start checking around the 10-minute mark.
- While the potatoes are boiling, in another saucepan, combine butter and heavy whipping cream. Heat it over medium-low until it's warmed through. This mixture will add that creamy richness we crave in mashed potatoes.
- Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or ricer, start mashing them to your desired consistency. Don’t overdo it! We want them creamy, not gummy. Add in half of the warmed butter and cream mixture along with salt to taste.
- If you prefer an extra smooth texture, now’s the time to use a hand mixer on low speed. Move it around constantly for just a minute or two to break up any larger chunks. Next, stir in the remaining butter and cream mixture and then fold in the gruyere cheese. Allow the cheese to melt gently into the potatoes, resulting in a beautifully creamy dish.
- Finally, stir in half of the caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes, and taste for seasoning. This is your opportunity to adjust the salt and maybe add a touch of freshly ground black pepper, depending on your preference.
- To serve, scoop the mashed potatoes into a serving dish and top with the remaining caramelized onions. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor if you’d like. Enjoy the rich and savory notes of your French Onion Mashed Potatoes!


