Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
This recipe for Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes combines tender potatoes with the flavorful boost of Lipton Onion Soup Mix. It’s a perfect side dish for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you want an easy, hands-off meal component that cooks itself. The slow cooker ensures that the potatoes turn out soft and infused with savory onion flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds of potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold work best, but red potatoes are also an excellent choice)
- 1 packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix (you can use either the classic or beefy onion flavor)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter, depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (for added moisture and flavor)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced (optional, for a deeper flavor)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish and added color)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Equipment
- Slow cooker (4-6 quart capacity)
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil (optional for easier clean-up)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and scrubbing your potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skins on adds texture and extra nutrients. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes or thick wedges to ensure they cook evenly. The size of the potato pieces affects how long they’ll take to cook, so aim for uniform sizes.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil (or melted butter), Lipton Onion Soup Mix, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to create a flavorful marinade that will coat the potatoes. If you enjoy garlic or other seasonings, feel free to get creative by adding paprika, onion powder, or even a dash of cayenne for some heat.
Step 3: Toss the Potatoes
Add the potato pieces to the bowl, and toss them well in the seasoning mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated. This step ensures that every bite of potato is packed with flavor. If the bowl is too small, you can do this step in batches.
Step 4: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also line the slow cooker with aluminum foil for easier clean-up later. Pour the seasoned potatoes into the slow cooker. Spread them out evenly so they cook uniformly.
Step 5: Add the Broth
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the potatoes. This added liquid will help the potatoes cook more evenly and remain moist. It also enhances the flavors, infusing the potatoes with extra richness. Stir gently to mix the broth with the potatoes.
Step 6: Slow Cook the Potatoes
Cover the slow cooker with its lid, and set it on low for 4-6 hours, depending on the size and type of potatoes you used. If you’re short on time, you can cook them on high for 2-3 hours, but low and slow is recommended for the best texture and flavor. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, gently stir the potatoes to make sure they cook evenly.
To test for doneness, poke a potato with a fork—it should glide through easily. If the potatoes are still firm, let them cook a bit longer.
Step 7: Optional Additions
Once the potatoes are tender, you can take them to the next level with some optional toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle over the top and stir in for a cheesy finish.
- Sour cream: Serve alongside the potatoes for a creamy and tangy complement.
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkling of fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes
- Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets will become fluffy and soft, while waxy potatoes like red potatoes or Yukon Gold will hold their shape better. Either works well, but it’s a matter of personal preference.
- Avoid overcooking: Potatoes can become mushy if left too long in the slow cooker. Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if your slow cooker tends to run hotter.
- Double the batch: This recipe can easily be doubled if you’re serving a crowd. Just make sure not to overcrowd the slow cooker to allow for even cooking.
- Try variations: For an extra flavor twist, add ingredients like chopped bacon, shredded cheese, or green onions. For a more herby flavor, toss in some rosemary or thyme with the potatoes.
- Serve warm: These potatoes are best served straight from the slow cooker while they’re hot and flavorful. They pair well with roast chicken, grilled steaks, or pork chops.
Serving Suggestions
Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. They’re perfect for:
- Holiday meals: Serve alongside a roast turkey or ham for a stress-free holiday side dish.
- Weeknight dinners: Pair with meatloaf, grilled chicken, or steak for a quick and easy dinner.
- Potluck gatherings: These potatoes travel well, and because they stay warm in the slow cooker, they’re a great option for potlucks.
For a heartier dish, you can also toss in some cooked sausage or chicken, turning this into a one-pot meal.
Conclusion
This recipe for Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes is a foolproof way to get tender, flavorful potatoes with minimal effort. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a side dish that’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking for a simple weeknight side, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!