When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the rich, creamy goodness of Colcannon, a classic Irish mashed potato dish infused with tender cabbage (or kale), creamy butter, and a hint of oniony goodness. This traditional side dish is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Whether you serve it alongside corned beef, sausages, or on its own with a generous pat of butter, Colcannon is a must-try for any lover of Irish cuisine.
Why You’ll Love This Traditional Colcannon Recipe
- Creamy and Flavorful: Buttery mashed potatoes meet savory greens for an unbeatable combination.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Made with everyday staples, this dish is easy to whip up anytime.
- A Taste of Ireland: A beloved Irish classic that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a side dish for St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday dinner, or a comforting weeknight meal.
Essential Ingredients
If you love Irish comfort food, you might also enjoy this Irish Beef Stew for a hearty pairing!
This creamy mashed potato dish includes:
- Potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
- Cabbage (or kale)
- Butter
- Heavy cream (or milk)
- Green onions (or leeks)
- Salt and black pepper
- Optional: Garlic, nutmeg, bacon for extra flavor
You’ll find the full list of ingredient measurements in the recipe card below. You can also print the recipe for easy reference!
How to Make the Perfect Colcannon
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Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized chunks.
- Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage and Onions
- While the potatoes cook, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped cabbage (or kale) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the green onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
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Step 3: Mash and Combine
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add the butter and warm cream, then mash until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the sautéed cabbage and green onions, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
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Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Transfer to a serving dish, making a small well in the center for an extra pat of butter.
- Serve warm and enjoy alongside your favorite Irish main dishes!
Expert Tips for the Best Colcannon
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon golds make it extra creamy, while russets give a fluffier texture.
- Don’t Overwork the Mash: Mash just until smooth to keep the potatoes from becoming gummy.
- Customize Your Greens: Traditional colcannon uses cabbage, but kale adds a great earthy flavor.
- Go All Out: Add crispy bacon or a touch of nutmeg for extra depth of flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Colcannon ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it up to a day in advance, then reheat gently with a bit of extra butter or cream.
Can I make Colcannon dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter and substitute the cream with plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk.
Colcannon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Description
A traditional Irish mashed potato dish with cabbage, butter, and green onions, creamy, flavorful, and the perfect side dish for any meal!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 2 cups cabbage (or kale), finely chopped
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Sauté the Cabbage and Onions: While the potatoes cook, melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage (or kale) and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the green onions and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Mash and Combine: Mash the drained potatoes with 2 tbsp butter and the warm cream until smooth and creamy. Fold in the sautéed cabbage and green onions. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a serving dish and create a small well in the center for an extra pat of butter. Serve warm alongside your favorite Irish dishes!
Notes
- Use Yukon golds for extra creaminess or russets for a fluffier texture.
- For extra depth, add crispy bacon or a pinch of nutmeg.
- Make it ahead and reheat with a little butter or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Boiled, Mashed
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Colcannon, Irish mashed potatoes, mashed potatoes with cabbage, traditional Irish side dish, creamy mashed potatoes, Colcannon recipe, Irish comfort food, easy mashed potato recipe, St. Patrick’s Day side dish, cabbage mashed potatoes
This Colcannon recipe is the ultimate Irish comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just want a cozy side dish, this creamy and flavorful mashed potato dish will become a staple in your home. So grab your potatoes, melt that butter, and enjoy a taste of Ireland!