When the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the thought of cozy dinners at home becomes irresistible. That’s when I turn to my all-time favorite comfort food: colcannon. This delightful Irish dish blends creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with vibrant greens like kale or cabbage, creating a heartwarming side that never fails to impress.
I first encountered colcannon during a festive gathering, where its rich aroma danced through the air, drawing everyone to the table. As I took my first bite, I was smitten by the harmonious blend of flavors—each spoonful was like a hug in a bowl! This recipe is not only easy to whip up, but it also offers a versatility that makes it perfect for any meal, from holiday feasts to casual weeknight dinners.
Join me as I share my beloved colcannon recipe, where every bite is a step toward that comforting culinary escape we all crave.
Why is this colcannon recipe a must-try?
Comforting Delight: The creamy potatoes mixed with hearty greens create a dish that warms both the heart and soul.
Seasonal Appeal: Perfect for chilly evenings or festive celebrations, this classic Irish staple never goes out of style.
Customizable Flavors: Swap greens or add extras like bacon or cheese to make it your own.
Quick and Easy: A straightforward recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes—no culinary expertise needed!
Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients from the potatoes and greens, it’s a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients.
Elevate your dining experience and explore more delectable creations in my collection of comforting recipes!
Colcannon Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components of this colcannon recipe!
For the Potatoes
- Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes – These varieties provide the ultimate creaminess; red potatoes work too for a different texture.
- Unsalted Butter or Ghee – Adds richness and flavor; for a dairy-free option, try olive oil or vegan butter.
- Milk – Helps achieve the desired creaminess; feel free to substitute with heavy cream or non-dairy milk for a richer taste.
For the Greens
- Chopped Kale or Cabbage – Offers a nutritious green component; Swiss chard or spinach are great alternatives for a unique twist.
- Green Onions – Imparts a subtle onion flavor; chives can be used for a gentler taste if preferred.
Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavors; adjust to your palette for the perfect taste.
Get started on this heartwarming colcannon recipe and bring a slice of tradition to your kitchen!
How to Make Colcannon
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Boil Potatoes: Place the Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes in a large pot, covering them with water about 1 inch above. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender and easily mashable.
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Cook Greens: In a separate large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped kale or cabbage, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for an additional minute, letting those flavors blend beautifully.
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Mash Everything: Drain the potatoes and add them to the pot with the sautéed greens. Mix in the milk, season generously with salt and pepper, and mash until you reach a creamy, fluffy consistency.
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Serve: Transfer the colcannon to a serving bowl, garnishing with additional green onions and a delightful pat of butter on top for a gorgeous finish.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for a savory twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Colcannon Variations
Explore delightful ways to make this classic dish your own with exciting twists that awaken your taste buds.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter and opt for non-dairy milk for a creamy finish.
- Savory Spin: Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms to elevate the flavors and texture, creating a heartier colcannon.
- Extra Greens: Experiment with Swiss chard or spinach instead of kale or cabbage for a fresh take and vibrant color.
- Flavor Boost: Add minced garlic or a pinch of nutmeg to the greens while cooking for an added depth of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, at the end to give a fragrant touch and brighten the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to introduce a kick of heat, perfect for spice lovers.
- Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese for a luscious, melty addition that elevates the comfort level.
- Textural Twist: Top your colcannon with crispy shallots or homemade breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creaminess.
What to Serve with Colcannon?
Gather ’round the table and elevate your colcannon experience with delightful pairings that will create a truly memorable meal.
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Glazed Ham: A sweet and savory companion, glazed ham brings a touch of indulgence that complements the creamy texture of colcannon beautifully. Each bite makes the flavors dance together in perfect harmony.
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Grilled Lamb Chops: Juicy, tender lamb chops paired with colcannon create an elegant dinner option, delivering both richness and a slight herbaceous note that enhances the dish wonderfully.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and parsnips deliver a sweet earthiness, balancing the creaminess of colcannon with added texture. The vibrant colors also make your meal visually stunning!
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Irish Soda Bread: This classic bread is the perfect accompaniment, providing a hearty bite to soak up any remaining deliciousness from your plate. Its slight sweetness and solider texture round out the dish perfectly!
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Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette makes a lovely addition, inviting you to scoop up your fluffy colcannon while adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy potatoes.
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Green Salad: A light, fresh salad helps brighten the meal, offering a refreshing burst of flavors. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for a touch of zing to balance the richness of colcannon.
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Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a comforting apple crisp. The warm spices and soft fruit echo the cozy, heartwarming essence of your colcannon recipe, making for the perfect dessert pairing.
Expert Tips for Colcannon Recipe
- Perfect Potato Choice: Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for a creamy texture; avoid waxy varieties that don’t mash well.
- Butter Melting Magic: Allow the butter to fully melt and bubble before adding greens to enhance the overall flavor of your colcannon recipe.
- Mash with Care: Use a potato masher to avoid over-mashing, which can make the potatoes gluey—aim for a fluffy consistency.
- Season Smartly: Taste your mixture before serving; adjust salt and pepper to elevate the dish’s flavors to suit your palate.
- Add Variety: Don’t hesitate to mix greens or incorporate extras like bacon or cheese for a delightful twist on the classic colcannon recipe.
Make Ahead Options
These colcannon preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can peel and chop the Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Similarly, you can sauté the chopped kale or cabbage and green onions, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply boil the potatoes until fork-tender, mix them with the prepped greens, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash to creamy perfection. Rest assured, even when made ahead, this colcannon recipe will be just as delicious and comforting!
Storage Tips for Colcannon Recipe
- Fridge: Store leftover colcannon in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze colcannon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat colcannon on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Microwave in short intervals, stirring well.
- Avoid New Flavors: Make sure to cool the colcannon completely before storing to prevent any condensation that could affect the taste.
Colcannon Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for colcannon?
Absolutely! I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the creamiest texture. These varieties lend a buttery flavor that perfectly complements the greens. If you prefer something different, you can choose red potatoes for a slightly waxy finish, but avoid starchy, low-moisture potatoes as they won’t mash well.
How can I store leftover colcannon?
You can store leftover colcannon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can alter the taste. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze colcannon? If so, how?
Definitely! Colcannon freezes beautifully. To freeze it, allow the dish to cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To use, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Just remember to add a little milk while reheating to bring back that creamy texture!
What can I do if my colcannon turns out gluey?
If your colcannon ends up gluey, it likely means the potatoes were over-mashed. For the best texture, use a potato masher and mash just until smooth—no more! If you’re in a pinch, you can mix in a bit more butter and milk to try to salvage the texture; this might help make it creamier and less sticky.
Are there any dietary considerations with colcannon?
Very! Colcannon can easily be made vegan by using olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter, and substituting regular milk for non-dairy options like almond or oat milk. If you’re concerned about gluten, rest assured that this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just check your butter for any added ingredients if that’s a concern!
Delicious Colcannon Recipe with Greens for Ultimate Comfort
Equipment
- - Large pot
- - Potato masher
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes Can also use red potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter or Ghee For dairy-free, use olive oil or vegan butter.
- 0.5 cup Milk Can substitute with heavy cream or non-dairy milk.
For the Greens
- 2 cups Chopped Kale or Cabbage Alternatively use Swiss chard or spinach.
- 0.5 cup Chopped Green Onions Chives can be used for a gentler taste.
Seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
Directions
- Place the Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes in a large pot, covering them with water about 1 inch above. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender and easily mashable.
- In a separate large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped kale or cabbage, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for an additional minute.
- Drain the potatoes and add them to the pot with the sautéed greens. Mix in the milk, season generously with salt and pepper, and mash until creamy.
- Transfer the colcannon to a serving bowl, garnishing with additional green onions and a pat of butter on top.