Slow Cooker Onion Soup Potatoes: A Comforting, Easy Side Dish
Hi there! I just have to tell you about this recipe I recently tried that quickly became a family favorite—Slow Cooker Onion Soup Potatoes. If you love potatoes and those warm, rich flavors from caramelized onions and soup mix, this dish is going to feel like a hug on your plate. What I love most is how easy it is to put together in the slow cooker and then forget about until dinner time. This means you get to enjoy a delicious, comforting side without standing over the stove!
Why I Love This Recipe
This isn’t just about tasty potatoes—it’s about the way the flavors come together with minimal fuss. The Lipton Onion Soup Mix adds an incredible savory depth along with that rich onion flavor, while slow cooking allows the potatoes to soak up all the goodness. Plus, using the slow cooker means it’s practically foolproof. You can prep it in the morning, and by dinner, you’ve got a warm, hearty side ready to steal the show.
Nutritional Benefits of This Potato Dish
Potatoes often get a bad rap, but they are actually a nutritious vegetable that can offer some great health benefits. They’re a fantastic source of vitamin C and potassium, which help support your immune system and keep your heart healthy. Leaving the skins on boosts the fiber content, which is great for digestion. Using a slow cooker means you don’t need to add much extra fat, and by choosing low-sodium broth or watching the salt, you can keep this dish heart-friendly. The fresh thyme you add is not just for flavor—it contains antioxidants and can even aid digestion.
Easy Variations to Try
- Make it Vegan: Swap out the butter for olive oil or a plant-based spread to keep things vegan-friendly without losing those rich flavors.
- Change the Herbs: Try rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different herb twist that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
- Add Garlic: Toss in a couple of minced garlic cloves when sautéing the onions for an extra layer of aroma and taste.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Once it’s cooked, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or parmesan on top and broil for a couple of minutes to get a golden cheesy crust.
Slow Cooker Onion Soup Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds yellow or baby potatoes, sliced thickly with skins on
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- Fresh thyme sprigs or leaves (about 1-2 teaspoons)
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup water or low-sodium broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes well and slice them into thick rounds, keeping the skins on for extra texture and nutrients.
- Slice the onion thinly so it caramelizes nicely.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter (or heat some olive oil) and sauté the sliced onions. Stir them often and cook until they turn golden brown and sweet, about 10-15 minutes. Then take them off the heat.
- Place the thick potato slices into your slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
- Layer the caramelized onions right on top of the potatoes.
- Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup Mix evenly over the potatoes and onions to add that signature flavor.
- Dot the mixture with the remaining butter, or drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Add fresh thyme sprigs or sprinkle thyme leaves over everything for a lovely herbal note.
- Pour 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water or low-sodium broth into the slow cooker to keep the potatoes moist as they cook.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender and bursting with flavor.
- Once done, taste and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Gently stir to combine the flavorful onions and thyme-infused juices with the soft potatoes.
- Serve warm as a hearty, savory side that pairs beautifully with roast meats, grilled veggies, or your Friday night burgers.
Helpful Tips for the Best Potatoes
- Use fresh potatoes: Baby potatoes or yellow potatoes work best because they hold their shape nicely and have a creamy texture when cooked.
- Don’t skip the caramelized onions: They add so much depth and sweetness that lifts this dish from simple to unforgettable.
- Adjust liquid as needed: Depending on your slow cooker, the water amount might vary—start with less and add more if it seems too dry during cooking.
- Leftovers are fantastic: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave so they stay tender.
- For extra crisp topping: Try transferring the cooked potatoes to a baking dish and broil for a few minutes to get a golden, crispy edge.
Equipment Needed
Here’s a quick rundown of what I use to make these wonderful potatoes:
- Slow cooker (any size but around 4-6 quarts works best)
- Sharp knife and cutting board for slicing potatoes and onions
- Skillet or frying pan for caramelizing the onions
- Mixing spoon to stir ingredients and serve
- Measuring spoons or cups for liquids and thyme
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use red potatoes instead of yellow or baby potatoes? Yes! Red potatoes work well, but yellow potatoes are creamier, which I personally prefer.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? The Lipton Onion Soup Mix usually contains gluten, so if you need gluten-free, look for a gluten-free onion soup mix or make your own with onion powder and seasonings.
- Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time? You can slice the potatoes and caramelize onions the day before to save time, but don’t combine or cook in the slow cooker until you’re ready.
- What if I don’t have fresh thyme? You can use dried thyme—go for about 1/2 teaspoon instead, since dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Can I add other veggies to the slow cooker with the potatoes? Absolutely! Carrots, parsnips, or even sliced bell peppers would add nice flavors and colors.
Give It a Try and Pin for Later!
Ready to dive into a side dish that’s easy, flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser? I bet you’ll love how this Slow Cooker Onion Soup Potatoes recipe fits right into your busy weeknights or weekend feasts. If you try it, don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest or share your experience—I’d love to know how yours came out and any twists you added. Happy cooking, friend!

