A creamy and comforting Irish mashed potato dish blended with sautéed cabbage, green onions, and crispy bacon, then finished with a pat of melted butter. Colcannon is a classic Irish side dish, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you crave rich, buttery mashed potatoes with a flavorful twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Traditional & Authentic – A beloved Irish dish with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Rich & Creamy – The combination of butter, milk, and soft mashed potatoes creates a velvety texture.
- Savory & Satisfying – The sautéed cabbage and bacon add depth of flavor.
- Easy to Make – One pot + one pan is all you need for this quick, homemade side dish.
- Perfect for Celebrations – A great St. Patrick’s Day side to pair with corned beef or Guinness beef stew.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- unsalted butter, plus more for serving
- green cabbage, shredded
- green onions, chopped
- milk or heavy cream
- bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
1. Cook the Potatoes
- In a large pot, cover the potatoes with water and bring to a boil.
- Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Sauté the Cabbage & Green Onions
- While the potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shredded cabbage and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the green onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Mash the Potatoes
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Mash with the remaining butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything
- Fold in the sautéed cabbage, green onions, and crumbled bacon (if using).
- Mix until well combined.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm with an extra pat of butter melting on top.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving
Variations
- Dairy-Free Version – Use olive oil or dairy-free butter and substitute with almond or oat milk.
- Vegetarian Option – Simply omit the bacon for a classic meat-free colcannon.
- Extra Creamy – Increase the butter and use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Garlic-Infused – Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic with the cabbage for a richer taste.
- Add More Greens – Stir in kale or leeks for a variation on traditional colcannon.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or butter to restore creaminess. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What is colcannon?
Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish made of mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale. It’s a staple in Irish homes, especially during St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween.
Can I use kale instead of cabbage?
Yes! Kale is a common substitute for cabbage in colcannon, offering a slightly earthier flavor.
What potatoes are best for colcannon?
Yukon Gold potatoes create a creamy texture, while Russet potatoes make for a fluffier mash.
How do I make colcannon extra creamy?
Use heavy cream instead of milk, add extra butter, and mash the potatoes thoroughly.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smooth texture, but you can leave the skins on for a more rustic dish.
What should I serve with colcannon?
It pairs beautifully with corned beef, Irish stew, bangers (sausages), or roasted lamb.
Can I make colcannon ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon bits?
Yes, but freshly cooked and crumbled bacon adds the best flavor.
Why add butter on top when serving?
It’s traditional to add an extra pat of butter, which melts into the potatoes for extra richness.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Boil the potatoes in the Instant Pot for 8 minutes, sauté the cabbage separately, and mix everything together.
Conclusion
Colcannon is a creamy, buttery, and flavorful Irish dish that makes a perfect side for any meal. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply looking for a comforting potato dish, this easy Irish mashed potato recipe is sure to impress. Serve it warm, topped with melted butter, and enjoy the authentic taste of Ireland!
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PrintColcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage)
A creamy and comforting Irish mashed potato dish blended with sautéed cabbage, green onions, and crispy bacon, finished with a pat of melted butter. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or as a cozy side dish!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling & Sautéing
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, plus more for serving
- 1/2 small green cabbage, shredded
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cover potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- While potatoes cook, melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded cabbage and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in green onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with remaining butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in the sautéed cabbage, green onions, and crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined.
- Serve warm with an extra pat of butter melting on top.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Bacon adds a smoky crunch, but the dish is just as delicious without it.
- Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle depth of flavor.