Colcannon (Traditional Irish Potatoes) is like a warm hug on a chilly day, inviting you to dig in with its creamy, buttery potatoes mingling with vibrant greens. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home, hinting at the delightful flavors waiting to be savored. creamy potato corn chowder This dish isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a celebration of heritage, warmth, and cozy gatherings.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is Colcannon traditionally served with?
- Can I make Colcannon ahead of time?
- Is there a vegan version of Colcannon?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture yourself at a festive Irish gathering, laughter echoing around as bowls of colcannon are passed from hand to hand. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and creates memories that linger long after the last bite. Whether you’re enjoying it on St. Patrick’s Day or as a comforting weeknight dinner, colcannon promises an experience bursting with love and flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This traditional Irish colcannon recipe makes preparing a delicious meal incredibly easy and satisfying
- The creamy texture and rich flavor profile deliver comfort in every bite
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any table setting
- Versatile enough to serve alongside meats or as a standalone vegetarian delight!
I remember one rainy evening when I made colcannon for friends; their smiles spoke volumes about how much they loved it.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- Green Cabbage: Opt for fresh, crisp cabbage to add a crunchy texture and mild sweetness to the mix.
- Butter: Choose high-quality butter for its rich flavor; it’s essential for that indulgent creaminess everyone loves.
- Milk or Cream: Use whole milk or heavy cream to achieve the perfect velvety consistency; adjust based on your preference.
- Spring Onions: Fresh spring onions add a punch of flavor; slice them thinly for an aromatic touch.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these basics! They elevate the dish, enhancing all the other wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Cuban black beans accompaniment.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling about 2 pounds of starchy potatoes. Cut them into uniform chunks for even cooking and place them in a large pot filled with cold water.
Boil Until Tender: Bring the pot of potatoes to a boil over medium heat. Cook them until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they easily break apart.
Sauté the Cabbage and Onions: In a separate skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped green cabbage and spring onions, sautéing until soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes will do.
Mash It All Together: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to their pot. Add sautéed cabbage mixture along with milk or cream—and more melted butter if you’re feeling indulgent! Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. sweet potato mash variation.
Season to Perfection: Taste your colcannon masterpiece and season generously with salt and pepper. Adjust according to your taste preferences; this is where your personal touch shines through!
Serve Warm & Enjoy!: Scoop generous servings into bowls and garnish with an optional pat of butter on top. Serve immediately while it’s warm—you’ll want to enjoy it fresh!
Colcannon (Traditional Irish Potatoes) is more than just food; it’s a heartfelt tradition that warms both stomachs and souls. So gather around your table, share stories, laughter, and relish each creamy bite of this timeless dish! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy potato waffles recipe.
You Must Know
- Mastering Colcannon unlocks a world of flavors
- The creamy potatoes blend beautifully with greens and butter, creating a dish that’s both hearty and comforting
- A sprinkle of green onions adds a delightful crunch, making it perfect for any cozy dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. While they are cooking, sauté the cabbage and green onions in butter until soft. Once the potatoes are ready, mash them with cream before folding in the sautéed greens.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cabbage for kale or even add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor. Experiment with different herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate your Colcannon experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it looks dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes, ensure they are well-drained before mashing to prevent excess moisture
- Always season your layers; taste as you go!
- Adding a bit of nutmeg enhances the richness without overwhelming flavors
Sharing a memorable moment when I first made Colcannon was special; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it and even declared me a potato wizard!
FAQ
What is Colcannon traditionally served with?
Colcannon pairs beautifully with roasted meats or sausages for a complete meal. oven roasted cauliflower side.
Can I make Colcannon ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day before and reheat when ready to serve.
Is there a vegan version of Colcannon?
Absolutely! Substitute cream with plant-based milk and butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Colcannon (Traditional Irish Potatoes)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with sautéed cabbage and spring onions, creating a comforting meal that warms both body and soul. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe embodies the essence of Irish heritage. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, colcannon will bring warmth to your table and create cherished memories with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs starchy potatoes (e.g., Russets)
- 1 cup green cabbage, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp high-quality butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup spring onions, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and cut the potatoes into uniform chunks; place in a pot of cold water.
- Boil the potatoes over medium heat for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add cabbage and spring onions; sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Drain the potatoes and return to pot; mash with sautéed cabbage mixture and milk/cream until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper; serve warm with an optional pat of butter on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg






