Mashed potatoes, cabbage or kale, Irish butter, milk, and optional cheddar — this Traditional Irish Colcannon recipe brings cozy Irish comfort to your table.

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You know that moment when you sit down with a bowl of something warm, and it somehow makes everything feel okay again? That’s exactly what Traditional Irish Colcannon does.

I still remember my first time making this. It was one of those gray, ugh-why-is-winter-so-long days. My fridge wasn’t exactly inspiring — potatoes, half a cabbage (looking a little sad if I’m honest), butter, and… yeah, that was about it.

I almost gave up and ordered pizza. But something told me, “Just try this.”

And wow. Instant mood lift. From the creamy mashed potatoes to the soft, buttery cabbage and that sneaky bit of optional cheddar (which I highly recommend you don’t skip), every spoonful just felt like comfort. Not fancy. Not complicated. Just exactly what I needed.

Ever since, Traditional Irish Colcannon has become my go-to when I need a little edible hug. And honestly? Sometimes those are the best kinds.

Why You’ll Love This Traditional Irish Colcannon Recipe?

I could just say, “because it’s mashed potatoes with butter,” and leave it there. But let’s dive in:

• Minimal ingredients, big flavor. This isn’t one of those recipes that makes you go buy weird stuff. Everything is simple and cozy.

• Ready fast. I’m talking 30-ish minutes from start to finish.

• Customizable. Cheese? No cheese? Kale instead of cabbage? You do you.

• Perfect for any meal. Side dish? Check. Midnight snack eaten cold from the fridge? Also check.

• It’s like a warm hug in food form. And let’s be honest, sometimes we all need that.

There’s something special about Traditional Irish Colcannon that makes it feel timeless. It’s humble… but secretly kind of genius.

Ingredient Notes:

• Potatoes (2 lbs):
  Go for starchy ones like Russets. They mash up like a dream and soak up butter and milk like they were made for each other.
• Irish Butter (6 tbsp):
  If you can find it, use it. Rich and creamy with a little extra something. If not? Any butter will make you happy here.
• Cabbage or Kale (10 oz):
  Classic colcannon usually means cabbage. But kale works too and adds a bit more texture and color. I swap depending on what’s in the fridge.
• Spring Onions (optional):
  These add a subtle bite and freshness. Not required, but highly recommended.
• Whole Milk (3/4 cup):
  Warm milk makes the mash creamy and luscious. Cold milk will make your potatoes sad. Just trust me.
• Irish Cheddar (optional but encouraged):
  I mean… cheese. Do I need to say more?
• Salt:
  A must. Potatoes without salt are like… I don’t even know. Just don’t skip it.

How To Make Traditional Irish Colcannon?

Step 1: Boil the potatoes.
Peel, chunk, and toss them in cold water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until fork-tender. Drain and let them sit for a minute or two to dry out a little. Dry potatoes = fluffier mash. Learned that the hard way once.

Step 2: Cook the greens.
While the potatoes do their thing, melt butter in a skillet. Add cabbage or kale and sauté until soft but not mushy. If you’re using spring onions, toss them in too.

Step 3: Mash the potatoes.
Mash ‘em up until smooth. Slowly pour in warm milk and stir until creamy. You want that velvety texture. No lumpy mash here, please.

Step 4: Bring it all together.
Add the buttery greens to the mash. Stir gently until everything is well combined. Add Irish cheddar now if you’re using it. I always do. Season to taste.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy.
Scoop into bowls, top with more butter (because why not), and dig in while it’s hot. Warning: sharing might be hard.

Storage Options:

• Fridge: Keeps well for 3-4 days in a sealed container.

• Freezer: Yep. Just know it might lose a little texture when reheated.

• Reheat: Microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.

Pro tip? Fry leftovers in butter the next day for crispy, golden Colcannon patties. Breakfast magic.

Variations and Substitutions:

Colcannon is classic, but hey — sometimes a little twist makes it yours.

• Cabbage vs. Kale: Either works. Both are awesome.

• Bacon bits: Yep, crispy bacon takes it up a notch.

• Garlic butter: Stir in roasted garlic for cozy vibes.

• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter and milk. Still dreamy.

• Herbs: Chives, parsley, thyme… why not?

The beauty of Traditional Irish Colcannon? It loves when you make it your own.

What to Serve with Traditional Irish Colcannon?

It goes with… everything. But if you want ideas:

• Roast meats: Chicken, pork, beef. Any works.

• Sausages: Colcannon + bangers = classic pub food magic.

• Corned beef: Especially on St. Patrick’s Day.

• Fish: A lighter option that pairs well.

• Or just alone: Late-night snack, anyone?

Honestly? You can’t go wrong. This dish plays nice with everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make Colcannon ahead of time?
Totally. Make it the day before and reheat gently. Add a splash of milk to refresh.

Is cheese traditional?
Nope. But I’m a firm believer it makes everything better.

What greens should I use?
Cabbage is classic. Kale is trendy. Both taste great.

And that’s Traditional Irish Colcannon for you — simple, comforting, and quietly impressive in that humble, I-don’t-need-to-show-off kind of way.

Perfect for chilly nights, St. Patrick’s Day, or anytime you just need a little extra comfort on your plate. And honestly? It’s just really, really good mashed potatoes with an Irish twist.

So — cabbage or kale? Cheese or no cheese? Let me know below because I’m totally team “extra butter and cheddar every single time.”

Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:

Butter Swim Biscuits

Banana Pudding Recipe

Chicken Lazone Recipe

Traditional Irish Colcannon

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Step into a world where tradition and comfort come together in this recipe, for Irish Colcannon. Hailing from the Emerald Isle this dish is a blend of textures and flavors combining the goodness of perfectly mashed potatoes with the subtle sweet crunch of fresh cabbage or kale. Each bite is enveloped in velvety butter creating a creamy consistency that is simply irresistible. For a burst of tanginess, you can sprinkle some sharp Irish cheddar cheese on top taking the dish to new levels of flavor. Whether enjoyed as a side or as a comforting course this colcannon goes beyond being just a recipe; it's, like receiving a warm hug from Ireland's soulful kitchen.

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4 Servings

Ingredients

1x2x3x

• 2 lb 907 g potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• 6 tbsp Irish butter
• 2 spring onions/scallions chopped (optional)
• 10 oz 283 g green cabbage or kale, chopped
• 3/4 cup 180 ml whole milk, warm
• 2 cups 160 g Irish sharp cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

 

1. To make boiled potatoes start by placing 2 pounds of peeled and chunked potatoes into a pot of water. Bring the water to a boil. Then let it simmer for 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a skillet. Add 10 ounces of chopped cabbage or kale to the skillet. Cook until it becomes softened. If desired you can also stir in some chopped spring onions.
3. Once the potatoes are done boiling drain them and transfer them to a bowl. Mash them up using a masher or fork. Then mix in the cabbage/kale and spring onion mixture. To make it creamier add 3/4 cup of whole milk and mix everything together well.
4. For some flavor, you can also add about 2 cups of Irish sharp cheddar cheese if you'd like. Don't forget to season with salt according to your taste preferences.
5. Finally, serve your colcannon warm as a comforting side dish.

Notes

For those navigating the gluten-free path, fear not! Our beloved Traditional Irish Colcannon naturally strides into this world with ease. The stars of our dish - potatoes, cabbage or kale, and the glorious Irish butter - are inherently gluten-free. However, if you're opting to add a sprinkle of cheesy delight with Irish sharp cheddar, just ensure your cheese is labeled gluten-free, as some cheeses may contain gluten additives. This small vigilance guarantees that your colcannon stays a safe haven of comfort, without meandering from its gluten-free core.

Audrey

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Bitty

I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!

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