With Saint Patrick’s Day just days away, We thought we would share a traditional recipe. It can be a side or a main.
Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with tender cabbage (or kale), green onions, and plenty of butter — this classic Irish Colcannon is the ultimate cozy side dish. Naturally gluten-free and ready in under 45 minutes, it’s a St. Patrick’s Day favorite that works any time of year.At YaDa Chef, we make Colcannon often for clients who want hearty, crowd-pleasing sides. The combination of fluffy potatoes and sautéed greens creates the perfect balance of creamy and fresh. Top it with a pat of melting butter for the traditional “well” in the center — pure comfort!Serves: 6 as a side dish
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes Ingredients
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900g) Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into even chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 6 tablespoons (85g) butter, divided (use more for serving)
- 4 cups (about 300g) green cabbage or kale, finely chopped
- 4 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced (white and green parts)
- ½–¾ cup (120–180ml) warm milk or heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes — Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
- Sauté the greens — While the potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped cabbage (or kale) and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the sliced green onions and cook for 1–2 more minutes. Remove from heat.
- Mash the potatoes — Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons butter and warm milk. Mash until mostly smooth (some small lumps are traditional and add texture).
- Combine — Fold the sautéed cabbage mixture and black pepper into the mashed potatoes. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Stir in crumbled bacon if using.
- Serve — Spoon into a serving bowl. Make a well in the center and add an extra pat of butter to melt into the hot colcannon.
Pro Tip: Warm your milk before adding — it keeps the potatoes light and fluffy instead of gluey.Why This Recipe WorksTraditional Colcannon uses simple, affordable ingredients to turn basic mashed potatoes into something special. The greens add color, nutrition, and a slight sweetness that balances the richness of the butter. It’s naturally gluten-free, so everyone at the table can enjoy it.Make It Your Own
- Kale version — Use curly or lacinato kale for a heartier, slightly bitter green.
- Dairy-free — Swap butter for olive oil or vegan butter and use unsweetened almond or oat milk.
- Cheesy — Stir in 1 cup shredded Irish cheddar for extra indulgence.
- Bacon lover’s — Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.
- Herb boost — Mix in fresh parsley or chives at the end.
Perfect alongside corned beef, roasted chicken, sausages, or as part of a full Irish breakfast. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make excellent potato cakes the next day!
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