When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the cozy, homey warmth of a bowl of mashed potatoes. And in Irish cuisine, that comfort reaches its peak with Colcannon — a traditional Irish mashed potato dish that combines creamy, buttery potatoes with tender cabbage or kale.
Irish Colcannon Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the humble potato — a staple of Irish cooking — with wholesome greens and rich cream. The name Colcannon comes from the Gaelic “cál ceannann,” meaning “white-headed cabbage,” which hints at its core ingredients.
Traditionally served around Halloween in Ireland (sometimes with charms hidden inside for fun), Colcannon is also a beloved side dish for St. Patrick’s Day and any hearty meal. It’s simple, nourishing, and soul-satisfying — the kind of recipe that reminds you how beautiful basic, honest food can be.
In this recipe, we’ll make a classic version of Colcannon that’s rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating Irish heritage, planning a comforting dinner, or looking for a new mashed potato twist, this dish is sure to win hearts around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Colcannon Recipe
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Traditional Irish Flavor: A timeless comfort dish with authentic taste and texture.
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Simple Ingredients: Just potatoes, greens, butter, and cream — classic and affordable.
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Comforting and Cozy: Warm, hearty, and satisfying on chilly days.
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Versatile: Works as a side for beef, chicken, fish, or vegetarian mains.
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Nutrient Boost: Kale or cabbage adds vitamins, fiber, and earthy flavor.
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Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for St. Patrick’s Day or any festive table.
What is Colcannon?
Colcannon is more than just mashed potatoes — it’s a dish deeply rooted in Irish history and home cooking. The recipe traditionally combines mashed potatoes with cooked cabbage or kale, butter, and cream or milk. Some versions include green onions (scallions) for extra flavor, while others feature leeks.
In Irish culture, Colcannon was often served during Samhain (Halloween), where charms were hidden inside the mash — like a ring symbolizing marriage or a coin representing good fortune. Today, it’s simply enjoyed as a comfort food side dish, especially during cold seasons or festive gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
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2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter substitute)
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½ cup heavy cream (or milk or plant-based cream)
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2 cups finely shredded green cabbage (or chopped kale)
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3–4 green onions (scallions), chopped
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking greens)
Optional Garnish:
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Additional melted butter for serving
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Chopped parsley or chives for color
Ingredient Notes
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Potatoes: Use starchy varieties like Russet for fluffiness, or Yukon Gold for a creamier texture.
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Cabbage vs. Kale: Either works beautifully — cabbage gives a softer texture, while kale adds a slightly earthy taste.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter and oat or almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.
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Add-Ins: A touch of garlic or leeks can enhance flavor without losing authenticity.
Equipment Needed
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Large pot
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Colander
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Potato masher or ricer
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Skillet
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Mixing bowl
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Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
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Peel (optional) and cut potatoes into even-sized chunks.
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Place in a large pot and cover with cold water.
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Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
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Drain well and return to the pot to dry slightly over low heat for 1 minute — this removes excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook the Cabbage or Kale
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While potatoes cook, heat 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add shredded cabbage (or kale) and sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened and lightly wilted.
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Stir in chopped scallions for the last minute of cooking.
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Set aside.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
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Mash the hot potatoes with butter until smooth and fluffy.
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Warm the cream gently in a saucepan or microwave (this prevents cooling the mash).
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Gradually pour the warm cream into the potatoes while mashing, until the texture is creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Season
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Fold the cooked cabbage/kale mixture into the mashed potatoes.
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Stir until evenly distributed.
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Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 5: Serve with Melted Butter
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Transfer Colcannon to a serving bowl.
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Make a small well in the center and pour a knob of melted butter into it.
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Serve immediately — warm, creamy, and golden!
Expert Tips for Perfect Colcannon
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Don’t overcook the greens: Sauté just until tender to maintain texture and color.
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Warm the dairy: This keeps the mash hot and creamy.
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Use a ricer for extra smoothness: It creates an ultra-fluffy potato base.
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Adjust creaminess to taste: Add more or less cream depending on your preferred texture.
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Add butter last: It enhances flavor and gives a glossy finish.
Flavor Variations
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Leek Colcannon: Substitute scallions with sautéed leeks for a sweeter onion note.
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Garlic Colcannon: Add 2 cloves of roasted or minced garlic for depth.
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Herb Infused: Mix in fresh parsley, thyme, or chives for brightness.
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Vegan Colcannon: Use plant-based butter and milk for a dairy-free, equally delicious dish.
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Sweet Potato Colcannon: Try with mashed sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory twist.
How to Serve Colcannon
Colcannon can easily elevate any meal — from casual weeknight dinners to festive feasts.
Pair It With:
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Grilled or roasted chicken
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Irish stew
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Pan-seared fish or salmon
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Vegetarian roast or lentil loaf
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Roasted vegetables
For St. Patrick’s Day:
Serve alongside traditional Irish dishes like soda bread, shepherd’s pie, or roasted root vegetables.
Everyday Ideas:
Use leftovers as a base for potato cakes — just form patties and pan-fry until golden!
How to Store and Reheat Colcannon
Refrigerate:
Store cooled Colcannon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze:
Portion into freezer bags and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat:
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Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
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Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between rounds.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re planning a big dinner, Colcannon can be made ahead easily:
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Prepare the mashed potatoes and greens separately.
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Combine them right before serving.
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Warm in the oven or on the stove with extra butter for that fresh-made taste.
This trick ensures your potatoes stay light and creamy — not dense or dry.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
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Calories: 240
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Fat: 12g
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Protein: 5g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 280mg
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Cultural Note: The Heart of Irish Comfort Food
Colcannon represents more than a side dish — it embodies the spirit of Irish hospitality. It’s about simplicity, warmth, and making the most of what the land provides. For centuries, Irish families relied on potatoes and greens as everyday staples, and Colcannon became a symbol of resourceful, hearty cooking.
In Irish tradition, this dish wasn’t just nourishment — it was celebration. During Halloween (Samhain), families would hide small charms in the mash: a ring meant love was coming, a coin meant prosperity, and a thimble symbolized thriftiness. While the practice isn’t common today, the spirit of sharing Colcannon remains — food made with love, to bring people together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Using cold cream or butter: It can cool the potatoes too quickly and make the texture gummy.
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Overworking the potatoes: Mash gently to avoid gluey consistency.
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Not seasoning enough: Potatoes love salt — taste and adjust before serving.
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Adding greens too early: Cook them separately so they retain texture and color.
FAQs About Colcannon
What’s the difference between Colcannon and Champ?
Colcannon includes cabbage or kale, while Champ uses green onions only — both are Irish favorites.
Can I make Colcannon vegan?
Yes! Use vegan butter and plant-based milk for a delicious dairy-free option.
What type of potatoes are best?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for creaminess and fluffiness.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Warm them gently and stir in cooked greens and a little cream to freshen up the texture.
Can I add cheese?
Traditional Colcannon doesn’t include cheese, but a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Irish cheese is a tasty twist.
How do I make it extra rich?
Use more butter or a mix of heavy cream and milk for a decadent version.
Can I use kale instead of cabbage?
Yes! Kale gives a heartier texture and deep green color.
How do I serve Colcannon for guests?
Serve in a large rustic bowl, drizzle with melted butter, and top with fresh herbs for presentation.
Is Colcannon gluten-free?
Yes — this recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free ingredients.
What can I do with leftovers?
Shape leftovers into patties and fry for crispy Colcannon cakes!
The Perfect Comfort Dish for Every Season
Colcannon isn’t just for St. Patrick’s Day. Its creamy texture and earthy greens make it perfect year-round. During winter, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or mushroom gravy. In spring, it complements grilled veggies or fish.
Its versatility makes it a must-have in your comfort food collection — rustic, flavorful, and made with love.
Storage and Freezing Tips Recap
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Fridge: Store up to 3 days in a sealed container.
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Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months in airtight bags.
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Reheat: Warm gently with milk or butter.
Pro Tip: Add a fresh knob of butter on top before reheating — it revives that silky richness.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Irish Colcannon Mashed Potatoes have stood the test of time — they’re pure comfort in a bowl. From their rustic roots to their rich, buttery flavor, this traditional recipe embodies everything we love about home-cooked meals.
Soft, creamy potatoes. Tender greens. A swirl of melted butter pooling on top. It’s a dish that feels both humble and special — the kind of recipe that connects generations. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy night in, Colcannon delivers warmth, heart, and timeless Irish flavor with every bite.
So the next time you have potatoes on hand, give them a twist of tradition. Make Colcannon — the Irish way to turn simple ingredients into something truly comforting.
