🎉 Introduction
When autumn arrives and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of creamy sweet potato mash. This version elevates the classic by adding caramelized onions and a hint of fresh rosemary — creating a side dish that’s both rustic and elegant.
Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness, while onions add depth and richness. A splash of balsamic vinegar ties everything together with a gentle tang that balances the earthy flavors.
Perfect for cozy dinners, holiday feasts, or weeknight meals, this sweet potato and onion mash is a fall favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or pot
- Medium skillet
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Strainer
- Mixing bowl (optional)
🛒 Ingredients
🥕 Fruits & Vegetables
- 3 Sweet potatoes, cut in half lengthwise (about 20 cm, medium-sized)
- ½ White onion, thinly sliced (about 2 cups), large
🍯 Condiments
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
🧂 Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
🫒 Oils & Vinegars
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
🌿 Herbs
- 1.5 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (divided: 1 tsp for cooking, 0.5 tsp for garnish)
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Cut each one in half lengthwise so they cook evenly. Leave the skins on if you prefer a rustic texture and extra fiber.
Step 2: Boil Until Tender
Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 3: Drain and Cool Slightly
Once tender, drain the potatoes using a strainer. Let them sit for a few minutes to release steam — this prevents the mash from becoming watery.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions
While the sweet potatoes cool, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced white onions and cook slowly for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until they turn soft and golden.
Step 5: Add Rosemary and Balsamic
Stir in 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar to the onions. Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then place them in a large bowl or return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until smooth. For a chunkier texture, mash lightly with a fork.
Step 7: Combine and Season
Add the caramelized onion mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir gently until well blended. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the mash to a serving dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 0.5 teaspoon of rosemary. Serve warm as a comforting side for chicken, beef, or vegetarian dishes.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Spoon cooled mash into freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to restore creaminess.
🥄 Variations
- Garlic Twist: Add 2 cloves of roasted garlic for extra flavor.
- Creamy Upgrade: Mix in 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or cream cheese for richness.
- Spicy Option: Sprinkle chili flakes or smoked paprika before serving.
- Herb Lovers’ Mash: Replace rosemary with thyme or sage for a different aroma.
- Maple Drizzle: Add a light drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Crispy Onion Top: Top with caramelized onions or fried shallots for texture.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use red onions instead of white?
Yes! Red onions add a slightly sweeter, deeper flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
It’s already vegan — simply use olive oil as listed.
3. Should I peel the sweet potatoes?
It’s up to you! The skins add fiber and a rustic look, but you can peel them for smoother mash.
4. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
Use apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity.
5. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes — reheat on low heat and stir in a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
6. How can I make it creamier?
Add a splash of milk or Greek yogurt during mashing.
7. Is rosemary necessary?
It enhances the flavor beautifully, but you can use thyme or parsley instead.
8. What proteins go well with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon.
9. Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Absolutely — butter adds a richer flavor. Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning.
10. How can I add more texture?
Top with toasted nuts like pecans or pumpkin seeds for a nice crunch.
🏁 Conclusion
This easy sweet potato and onion mash captures everything we love about fall — warmth, depth, and comfort. The caramelized onions bring a savory balance to the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while rosemary adds a touch of freshness that makes the dish shine.
Whether served beside a roasted main or enjoyed as a cozy vegetarian bowl, this side dish is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Each bite is soft, fragrant, and deeply satisfying — perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
Easy Sweet Potato & Onion Mash — The Coziest Fall Comfort Food
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Ingredients
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Equipment
Method
- Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Cut each one in half lengthwise so they cook evenly. Leave the skins on if you prefer a rustic texture and extra fiber.
- Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once tender, drain the potatoes using a strainer. Let them sit for a few minutes to release steam — this prevents the mash from becoming watery.
- While the sweet potatoes cool, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced white onions and cook slowly for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until they turn soft and golden.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar to the onions. Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
- Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then place them in a large bowl or return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until smooth. For a chunkier texture, mash lightly with a fork.
- Add the caramelized onion mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir gently until well blended. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mash to a serving dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 0.5 teaspoon of rosemary. Serve warm as a comforting side for chicken, beef, or vegetarian dishes.
Notes
Yes! Red onions add a slightly sweeter, deeper flavor. 2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
It’s already vegan — simply use olive oil as listed. 3. Should I peel the sweet potatoes?
It’s up to you! The skins add fiber and a rustic look, but you can peel them for smoother mash. 4. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
Use apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity. 5. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes — reheat on low heat and stir in a drizzle of olive oil before serving. 6. How can I make it creamier?
Add a splash of milk or Greek yogurt during mashing. 7. Is rosemary necessary?
It enhances the flavor beautifully, but you can use thyme or parsley instead. 8. What proteins go well with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. 9. Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Absolutely — butter adds a richer flavor. Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning. 10. How can I add more texture?
Top with toasted nuts like pecans or pumpkin seeds for a nice crunch. 🏁 Conclusion This easy sweet potato and onion mash captures everything we love about fall — warmth, depth, and comfort. The caramelized onions bring a savory balance to the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while rosemary adds a touch of freshness that makes the dish shine. Whether served beside a roasted main or enjoyed as a cozy vegetarian bowl, this side dish is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. Each bite is soft, fragrant, and deeply satisfying — perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
