When it comes to simple comfort food, nothing beats a warm bowl of tender potatoes slow-cooked with butter and sweet onions. This slow cooker buttered potatoes and onions recipe transforms humble ingredients into a rich, flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any meal. Soft, creamy potatoes soak up melted butter while onions gently caramelize, creating a savory, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels homemade and satisfying.
This dish is perfect for busy days because the slow cooker does all the work. With just a few minutes of preparation, you can set it and forget it. By the time dinner rolls around, your kitchen will be filled with the comforting aroma of buttery potatoes and slow-cooked onions.
Whether served alongside roasted chicken, grilled meats, or hearty casseroles, these buttery potatoes make an easy, reliable side that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or herbs
- Optional: grated cheese or fresh herbs for garnish
Preparation Steps
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Cut them into medium-sized cubes so they cook evenly. Try to keep the pieces similar in size to ensure consistent texture.
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with oil or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Place the cubed potatoes into the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly. Add the sliced onions over the top. The onions will soften and release their natural sweetness as they cook, adding extra flavor to the dish.
Drizzle olive oil over everything, then sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Toss gently to coat the potatoes evenly with seasoning.
Distribute the butter cubes across the top. As the potatoes cook, the butter melts slowly, creating a rich, silky coating that enhances both flavor and texture.
Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking if possible to ensure even distribution of butter and seasoning.
The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender and lightly golden around the edges. The onions should be soft and slightly caramelized.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these slow cooker potatoes hot straight from the pot. They pair wonderfully with grilled steak, roasted chicken, baked fish, or barbecue dishes.
They also make an excellent addition to holiday meals, brunch spreads, or family dinners. For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped parsley, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
You can even enjoy leftovers for breakfast with eggs or as a filling for wraps and bowls.
Tips for Perfect Potatoes
Choose waxy or medium-starch potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape well and develop a creamy interior.
Avoid overcooking, as very soft potatoes can become mushy. Check for doneness near the minimum cooking time.
Cutting potatoes evenly is key for consistent cooking.
For extra crispiness, transfer cooked potatoes to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes.
Add extra ingredients like bacon bits, paprika, or fresh thyme for more flavor variations.
Storage and Meal Prep
Let the potatoes cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a small amount of butter or oil to refresh moisture.
These potatoes also work well for meal prep since they reheat beautifully and maintain their flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Slow cooker buttered potatoes and onions are simple, comforting, and incredibly versatile. With minimal ingredients and almost no effort, you get a rich, flavorful side dish that complements nearly any meal.
The combination of creamy potatoes, sweet onions, and melted butter creates a classic taste that feels homemade and satisfying. It’s budget-friendly, family-friendly, and perfect for everyday cooking.
Once you try this easy slow cooker recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Warm, buttery, and full of flavor, these potatoes prove that the simplest dishes are often the most delicious.