Slow cooker potatoes and onions make an effortless, comforting side dish. As they cook slowly together, the onions break down into a sweet, savory melt-in-your-mouth texture while the potatoes absorb all the rich seasonings and butter.
Ingredients
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2 ½ lbs Yukon Gold or Red potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch chunks (peel on or off)
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2 medium yellow or sweet onions, sliced into thick wedges
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4 tbsp (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted (or cut into small cubes)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
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1 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
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¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, adds moisture)
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Garnish: Fresh chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
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Lightly grease the inside insert of your 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or a little oil.
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Scrub and slice your potatoes into uniform 1-inch bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
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Slice the onions into thick wedges or strips so they hold up well during the long cook.
2. Layer and Season
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Place the cut potatoes and sliced onions into the slow cooker.
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Drizzle the melted butter and olive oil evenly over the top. Pour in the broth if using.
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Sprinkle in the minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
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Toss gently with tongs or a large spoon until every piece is well coated.
3. Slow Cook
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Cover with the lid and cook on:
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LOW: 5 to 6 hours (Best for ultra-tender, caramelized flavor)
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HIGH: 3 to 4 hours (If you are in a hurry)
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Check for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should slide through easily.
4. Finish and Serve
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Give the mixture a gentle stir to re-coat the potatoes in the buttery bottom juices.
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Taste and add extra salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Recipe Variations & Tips
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The Packet Shortcut (Lipton Style): Instead of individual herbs, swap the thyme, garlic, and part of the salt for 1 packet of dry onion soup mix mixed with the butter/oil.
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Loaded Cheese & Bacon: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, scatter 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and cooked, crumbled bacon on top. Cover until melted.
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Best Potato Choice: Yukon Golds are ideal because they hold their shape without getting too mushy while still absorbing flavor. Russets work too, but cut them slightly larger so they don’t break apart.
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Want Crispy Edges? Slow cookers steam-cook vegetables, so the potatoes will be soft and tender. If you prefer crispiness, spread the cooked potatoes and onions onto a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes right before serving.