Traditional colcannon is a beloved Irish dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with tender greens, often cabbage or kale, and plenty of butter. Hearty and rustic, this comforting side is more than just mashed potatoes – it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that have been part of Irish cooking for centuries. Often served alongside meats or enjoyed on its own, colcannon is especially popular around St. Patrick’s Day and during colder months when filling, warm dishes are most welcome.
The foundation of colcannon is mashed potatoes, typically made with floury varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds, which create a soft, smooth texture. Cooked greens are folded into the mash, giving the dish its signature speckled appearance and an earthy, slightly sweet flavor. Cabbage is most commonly used, but some variations swap in kale, scallions, or even leeks, depending on regional and family traditions.
What makes colcannon so comforting is the generous amount of butter and cream mixed into the potatoes. This richness is balanced by the bite of the greens, resulting in a dish that feels indulgent yet grounded. Traditionally, a well of melted butter is made in the center of the bowl when serving, so everyone gets a spoonful of extra richness with their portion.
Traditional Colcannon is often served with corned beef, boiled ham, or Irish sausages, but it can just as easily stand on its own or be served with a fried egg for a cozy vegetarian meal. Leftovers can be shaped into patties and fried until golden, making a delicious next-day treat.
Deeply rooted in Irish heritage, colcannon is more than just a side dish — it’s a warm, comforting reminder of home and tradition. Whether prepared for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, its rich flavor and humble ingredients make it a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes peeled and cubed
- 4 cups cabbage chopped
- 1/2 cup milk or as needed
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 4 scallions chopped
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a separate pan, cook the chopped cabbage in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes until tender, then drain.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan and sauté the scallions until soft.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with the milk and 2 tablespoons of butter until smooth.
- Stir in the cooked cabbage and scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
I tried this recipe, but it just didn’t taste right. Maybe the cabbage was too much?
Nah, I don’t think cabbage is the prob. Colcannon is supposed to taste like that. Just different, ya know?
I think you might’ve used too much cabbage. It’s all about balance! Maybe try less next time?
This colcannon was a hit! So creamy and comforting. Definitely making again. 🥔❤️
Good recipe! But why you gotta use so much butter? 😅 Can’t we make it healthy?
Looks great but I don’t like cabbage. Could I use spinach instead? Any suggestions?
Colcannon?! I thought that was a dance! Turns out it’s food. Ha!
Tried this and my kids loved it, I just added some cheese on top! Yum!
This isn’t how my Irish family makes it! We add bacon! And more cream! Bigger flavor!
Hey, why do people call this colcannon? It’s really just mashed potatoes with greens, right?
It’s called colcannon because it’s a traditional Irish dish! It’s more than just mashed potatoes; the cabbage adds a nice flavor! 😊
Sorry, but this is just mashed potatoes with cabbage! How can you call it a dish? 🙄
Way too much butter for my personal taste, but still a nice dish overall.
Yummy, but I feel like it could use some garlic for more taste!
I agree! Garlic would be a great addition! Makes everything better! 🧄
Eh, I’ve had better. Needs more butter in my opinion.
Took forever to cook the potatoes! But it was worth it in the end.
Gr8 recipe! Who knew it was so easy? Thanks so much! 💖
Really good but I used green onions instead of scallions by accident. Still tasted great!
This is just like my grandma used to make! So comforting and delicious. Thank you for sharing!
It was okay, but I thought it needed more flavor. Maybe I should’ve added some cheese? Not sure I’ll make it again.
I totally agree! A little cheese can take it to the next level. I usually add cheddar myself. This dish could use a kick!
Cheese? Isn’t colcannon supposed to be simple? Maybe you just made it wrong. Cabbage, potatoes, butter, that’s it!
I found this recipe pretty bland. Needs more seasoning than just salt and pepper!
Too much chopping for me. Where’s the quick version of this recipe??
Awesome!! Can’t believe how easy this was! My kids loved it too. Will make again for sure!
This colcannon is so delicious! Tastes just like my grandma used to make. Five stars for sure!
Absolutely love colcannon! Perfect comfort food during the winter. Just add some bacon and it’s even better!
Honestly, I was a bit skeptical about mixing cabbage with potatoes. It sounded weird to me, but it turned out surprisingly good!
Isn’t this just mashed potatoes with cabbage? Not very fancy at all.
Is this really Irish food? I thought colcannon was just a myth. Anyway, it was okay.
Easy to follow, but too many potatoes for my taste. I prefer more cabbage!
Yum! I added some cheese and it was like a flavor bomb in my mouth! Try it.
I don’t get why there’s cabbage in this. Seems weird to me…but I gave it a shot.
I’ve never had colcannon before, but this seems easy enough. Is it supposed to be this creamy?
Way too much butter for my liking! I’ll make it again but with less.
I dunno, I think it needs something more. Maybe a bit of garlic? Just felt kinda bland to me.
This colcannon recipe is just like my grandmother used to make! So nostalgic 🙂
Very nice! But what’s colcannon even mean? Sounds fancy, haha.
Colcannon is just a fancy name for mashed potatoes with greens! It’s super hearty and delicious. You’ll love it!
Wow, this is awesome!! Can’t believe how easy it was to make! My kids loved it too!
Made this for St. Patrick’s Day and it was a hit! My kids loved it.
So easy to make! I added some cheese on top, really upped the flavor!
Cheese on colcannon? That’s different! I usually stick to the basic recipe, but I might give yours a try!
This colcannon was amazing! My family loved it. Will definitely make again.
So glad to hear that! Colcannon is such a comforting dish. What did your family think of the texture?
I don’t know, seems kinda plain to me. Where’s the flavor? Maybe try adding some bacon next time?
This colcannon recipe is pure comfort food! I added a touch of garlic and it made it even better! Definitely a 5 star dish!
meh. I dont get why people love this dish so much. Just boiled potatoes and cabbage shouldnt be such a big deal.
Just finished making this, and it didn’t turn out well. My potatoes were too lumpy. 😞
Delicious! But my neighbor said the Irish don’t add milk usually… is that true?