Colcannon Potatoes are a traditional Irish dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. This simple yet flavorful dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with the earthy goodness of cabbage and green onions. Often served as a side dish alongside hearty meats like lamb or beef, colcannon potatoes have earned their place in Irish cuisine for good reason.
The key to a perfect batch of colcannon lies in the balance between the smooth, buttery mashed potatoes and the tender, slightly sweet cabbage. The cabbage is cooked just enough to soften it, while still maintaining its vibrant green color and delicate flavor. Green onions or scallions are added for a pop of sharpness that cuts through the richness of the potatoes, creating a harmonious contrast.
Colcannon is often made with a generous amount of butter and cream, which gives the potatoes their rich, velvety texture. Some variations of the dish include a bit of milk or buttermilk for extra creaminess, while others may add a pinch of salt or pepper for seasoning. The result is a dish that’s indulgent yet comforting, perfect for cozy family meals or holiday feasts like St. Patrick’s Day.
One of the most charming aspects of colcannon potatoes is their versatility. While the basic ingredients remain the same, you can add your own twist to the dish. Some people like to incorporate crispy bacon or sautéed onions for extra flavor, while others might add herbs like parsley or thyme to freshen up the dish. Colcannon can also be used as a filling for savory pies or pasties, showcasing just how adaptable and delicious this classic dish can be.
Whether you’re enjoying it alongside a roast dinner or simply scooping up leftovers for a satisfying lunch, colcannon potatoes offer a taste of Ireland that’s both hearty and comforting. Simple in its ingredients but rich in flavor, it’s the kind of dish that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and quartered
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 Green onions thinly sliced
Instructions
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- While the potatoes are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cabbage and cook until wilted and tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add the cooked cabbage to the pot with the potatoes. Add the milk, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the green onions. Serve hot.
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I made this for my fam and they all loved it! Especially the kids. Will make again.
I thought it was too mushy. Cabbage belong in soup, not mashed potatos.
This recipe is AMAZING! I added some bacon and it took it to the next level. Definitely a keeper!
Bacon? That sounds delicious! I’m going to try it that way next time!
I dunno, this seems kinda plain. What’s the point of cabbage? I prefer my potatoes loaded with cheese!
Colcannon? Sounds fancy. But it’s just potatos and cabbage lol!
I dunno, seems a bit bland. I added garlic powder and it turned out better.
Simple and tasty, I skipped the onions and it was still good. Thanks!
This is a fantastic recipe! So creamy and buttery. Perfect comfort food! Definitely 5 stars!
Tried this for St. Patrick’s Day, and it was a hit! Super easy to make and tasted great with corned beef. Yum!
Turkey @karen loves it! We should make again! 🍽️😋
I don’t know. It’s just mashed potatoes and cabbage. Why would anyone eat this? Not for me. 2 stars.
Colcannon? More like poor-man’s food! When I was a kid, we had this all the time because it was cheap. Goes great with sausage tho! 4 stars!
I agree! It’s a simple dish but so satisfying. Just like you said, perfect with sausage! 5 stars for me.
Absolutely loved this! Reminds me of my grandma. So nostalgic! Perfect consistency, and the green onions make it fancy. 5 stars!
Isn’t colcannon supposed to have kale?? This is just a potato mash with cabbage. 😒
Yum! My Irish grandma would be proud. Perfect for a chilly night.
Looks good but I’m not sure about the cabbage. Can’t you just skip it? Seems like a weird combo with potatoes.
This recipe is a classic! I love how simple yet comforting colcannon is. Perfect for those cold nights! Thanks for sharing!
Absolutely love this recipe! So creamy and comforting. 5 stars!
I tried this too! It was really good, but the cabbage was too mushy for me. I think I’ll try it without next time.
Why does it call for so much butter? Isn’t it unhealthy? I think you could use olive oil… 🤷♂️ 3 stars.
5 stars! So simple and delish. Perfect for a cozy night in. Will make again!
I love colcannon! It’s so comforting. Perfect for chill nights! 🌿🥔
This sounds good but why are you adding cabbage? Potatoes are fine alone! 🤔
This was gross. The cabbage ruined everything! Never making it again!
Made this for my family, and they wouldn’t eat it. My kids said it looked funny. I thought it was ok, but they wanted pizza. 3 stars.