Onion Potatoes Slow Cooker: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Onion Potatoes Slow Cooker: the easiest, most comforting side dish you’ll ever make! Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of tender potatoes, infused with the sweet and savory flavor of caramelized onions. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, and it practically cooks itself.

The beauty of slow-cooked dishes lies in their simplicity and the way they allow flavors to meld and deepen over time. While the exact origins of combining potatoes and onions in a slow cooker are difficult to pinpoint, the pairing itself is a classic, found in various cuisines around the world. Potatoes, a staple in many diets, provide a hearty base, while onions add a layer of sweetness and complexity that elevates the dish. Think of it as a modern take on traditional comfort food, adapted for our busy lives.

People adore this Onion Potatoes Slow Cooker recipe for several reasons. First, the taste is simply irresistible. The potatoes become incredibly tender, almost melting in your mouth, and the onions caramelize to perfection, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s both satisfying and addictive. Second, the texture is divine – soft potatoes with slightly crispy edges from the slow cooker’s gentle heat. But perhaps the biggest draw is the convenience. With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking process, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! What could be better?

Ingredients:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or chives

Preparing the Onions and Potatoes:

1. First, let’s get those onions ready. Thinly slice the two large yellow onions. Don’t worry about being perfect; they’ll soften up beautifully in the slow cooker. I like to use a mandoline for even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well.
2. Next up are the potatoes. Peel the 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. I prefer Yukon Golds because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture, but Russets will also work if that’s what you have on hand. Cube the potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
3. Now, mince the 4 cloves of garlic. Fresh garlic is key here for that wonderful aromatic flavor. You can use a garlic press or finely chop it with a knife.

Building the Flavor Base:

1. In a large skillet, melt the 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This combination of butter and olive oil adds richness and prevents the butter from burning.
2. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 10-12 minutes. You want them to be nice and tender, but not browned. This step is crucial for developing a deep, sweet flavor that will infuse the entire dish.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Season the onion and garlic mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s important to build flavor at every stage.

Layering in the Slow Cooker:

1. Now it’s time to assemble everything in the slow cooker. Start by adding half of the cubed potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Next, spoon half of the cooked onion and garlic mixture over the potatoes. Spread it out evenly.
3. Sprinkle half of the dried thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg over the onion and potato layer. These herbs add a wonderful earthy aroma and flavor.
4. Repeat the layers: add the remaining potatoes, followed by the remaining onion and garlic mixture, and then the remaining thyme, rosemary, and nutmeg.
5. Pour the 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth) over the layers. Make sure the broth covers most of the potatoes. If needed, add a little more broth to ensure they are mostly submerged.

Slow Cooking Process:

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness periodically.
2. Once the potatoes are cooked through, carefully mash them slightly with a potato masher or a large spoon. You don’t want to completely puree them; just mash them enough to thicken the broth and create a creamy texture.
3. Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half) and the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The cream adds richness and the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory flavor.
4. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed to your preference.
5. Let the mixture sit in the slow cooker for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Serve the slow cooker scalloped potatoes hot, directly from the slow cooker.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
3. These scalloped potatoes are delicious on their own as a side dish, or they can be served as a base for grilled chicken, pork, or beef.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, cheddar, or even a smoked Gouda would be delicious additions.
• Add Some Heat: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onion and garlic mixture.
• Vegetable Additions: You can add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as sliced carrots, celery, or leeks. Add them along with the onions for the best results.
• Meat Lovers: For a heartier dish, add cooked bacon or ham to the layers.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the layers in the slow cooker ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add the broth and cook as directed when you’re ready to serve.
• Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as fresh thyme, oregano, or sage.

Storing Leftovers:

Leftover slow cooker scalloped potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to prevent them from drying out.

Why This Recipe Works:

This slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make and delivers a comforting, flavorful dish every time. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a creamy, rich texture that’s simply irresistible. The combination of onions, garlic, herbs, and cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking with different cheeses, vegetables, or meats. Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Saturated Fat: 12-15 grams
• Cholesterol: 70-80 mg
• Sodium: 500-600 mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
• Fiber: 3-4 grams
• Sugar: 5-7 grams
• Protein: 8-10 grams

Enjoy your delicious and easy slow cooker scalloped potatoes! I hope you and your family love them as much as mine does.

Conclusion:

This Onion Potatoes Slow Cooker recipe is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your regular meal rotation. Why? Because it delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth potatoes infused with the sweet, savory goodness of caramelized onions, all achieved with the magic of your slow cooker. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen all day, when in reality, you just tossed a few ingredients into a pot and let it do its thing!

But the ease of preparation isn’t the only reason to love this recipe. The depth of flavor is simply outstanding. The slow cooking process allows the onions to break down and release their natural sugars, creating a rich, almost jam-like consistency that perfectly complements the creamy potatoes. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! This Onion Potatoes Slow Cooker dish is fantastic as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple veggie burger. But it’s also hearty enough to stand on its own as a vegetarian main course.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
* Herb it up: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley add a bright, aromatic touch. Stir them in during the last hour of cooking.
* Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Gruyere, or Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a melty, cheesy delight.
* Creamy dream: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for extra creaminess and tang.
* Breakfast bliss: Top with a fried egg for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
* Loaded potatoes: Treat it like a baked potato bar! Offer toppings like bacon bits, chives, sour cream, cheese, and salsa.
* Add some protein: Toss in some cooked sausage or bacon during the last hour of cooking for a heartier meal.
* Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any dairy products. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast will add richness and flavor.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of slow-cooked onions and potatoes for yourself. It’s a simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend meals.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy the most delicious Onion Potatoes Slow Cooker you’ve ever tasted!

Once you’ve given it a try, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments below! Let’s create a community of slow cooker enthusiasts and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Happy cooking!