Roasted pumpkin, garlic and caramelised onion mash

Roasted pumpkin, garlic, and caramelised onion mash blends sweet, earthy flavours with a creamy texture, making it an ideal autumn side dish. The combination of roasted vegetables and caramelised onions creates a comforting, rich mash that pairs well with various meals.

24 Jan 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

6 cups pumpkin
2 potatoes
1 short spray cooking spray oil
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup sour cream
1 tbsp butter
1 onion
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tbsp vinegar

Roasted pumpkin, garlic, and caramelised onion mash is a perfect autumn dish that combines the sweet, earthy flavors of pumpkin and caramelised onion with the rich, creamy texture of mashed potatoes. This recipe is perfect as a side dish for any meal or as a comforting, standalone dish.

Instructions:

1. Prep & Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the cubed pumpkin and potatoes on a baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the vegetables with cooking spray oil.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. Use a fork to check for tenderness.

2. Caramelize the Onions:
- While the vegetables are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion to the skillet.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to soften and turn translucent.
- Add the 2 tsp brown sugar and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
- Pour in the 1 tbsp vinegar and stir well to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vinegar has evaporated.

3. Prepare the Mash:
- Once the pumpkin and potatoes are roasted, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the minced garlic, 1/3 cup sour cream, and 1 tbsp butter.
- Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash everything together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency to your liking; you can add a bit more sour cream if necessary.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine & Serve:
- Gently fold the caramelized onions into the pumpkin and potato mash until evenly distributed.
- Serve hot as a delightful side dish to complement your main course.

This roasted pumpkin, garlic, and caramelised onion mash is a delicious and versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The combination of sweet caramelised onions, roasted garlic, and creamy pumpkin creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone will love.

Roasted pumpkin, garlic and caramelised onion mash FAQ:

How long does it take to roast the pumpkin and potatoes?

Roast the cubed pumpkin and potatoes for about 25-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until they are tender and lightly browned.

What should I do if my onions aren't caramelizing?

If the onions are not caramelizing, ensure you are cooking them over medium heat and stirring frequently. If they are still not browning, you might need to lower the heat slightly to allow them to cook evenly without burning.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin and potato mash ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt.

What type of pumpkin is best for this mash?

Sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins are ideal choices for this recipe due to their sweet flavor and smooth texture. Avoid using large carving pumpkins, as they can be watery and less flavorful.

Tips:

- Ensure even roasting: Cut the pumpkin and potatoes into similar-sized pieces to ensure they roast evenly and finish cooking at the same time.

- Roast garlic properly: Roast the garlic cloves in their skins alongside the pumpkin and potatoes to prevent them from burning and to enhance their sweetness.

- Caramelise onions slowly: Caramelise the onions slowly over low heat, allowing the natural sugars to release and deepen in flavor without burning.

- Adjust consistency: Adjust the consistency of the mash by adding more or less sour cream and butter to suit your preference.

- Use a food processor: For an extra smooth and creamy mash, consider using a food processor instead of mashing by hand.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 210kcal
Protein 4.78g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 3.80g
Sugar 10g
Fat 7g

Roasted pumpkin, garlic and caramelised onion mash