Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish made from creamy mashed potatoes blended with sautéed cabbage and scallions. This comforting side is rich in flavor and perfect alongside roasts, stews, or any hearty meal. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, Colcannon brings a touch of rustic warmth to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting & Creamy – Smooth mashed potatoes combined with tender cabbage.
Simple Ingredients – Uses everyday pantry staples for big flavor.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Versatile Side Dish – Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or St. Patrick’s Day.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900 g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 4 scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup milk (or cream for richer texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well. - Prepare the Cabbage and Scallions
While potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped cabbage and scallions, sautéing until tender and slightly wilted, about 5-7 minutes. - Mash the Potatoes
Return potatoes to the pot or a large bowl. Add remaining butter and milk, mashing until smooth and creamy. - Combine
Stir in sautéed cabbage and scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve Warm
Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information
Calories: 220
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 4g
Tips for Success
- Use Starchy Potatoes – Russets or Yukon Golds work best for creamy mash.
- Butter and Milk – Adjust amounts for preferred richness and texture.
- Add More Greens – Try kale or spinach for a twist on traditional cabbage.
Why This Recipe Works
The fluffy mashed potatoes balance perfectly with the tender sautéed cabbage and fresh scallions, creating a flavorful, comforting side that’s creamy and slightly crunchy. The simplicity of ingredients highlights the natural goodness of this classic Irish dish.
Colcannon is a quick, satisfying side that brings creamy mashed potatoes and savory greens together in perfect harmony. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a timeless dish that complements any meal with a touch of Irish tradition.
Colcannon – Classic, Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage
4
10
minutes25
220
kcalA creamy, comforting blend of mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, and scallions — classic Irish comfort food perfect as a hearty side dish.
Ingredients
2 pounds (900 g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 cups green cabbage, chopped
4 scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
4 tbsp unsalted butter
½ cup milk (or cream for richer texture)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well. - Prepare the Cabbage and Scallions
While potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped cabbage and scallions, sautéing until tender and slightly wilted, about 5-7 minutes. - Mash the Potatoes
Return potatoes to the pot or a large bowl. Add remaining butter and milk, mashing until smooth and creamy. - Combine
Stir in sautéed cabbage and scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve Warm
Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use Starchy Potatoes – Russets or Yukon Golds work best for creamy mash.
Butter and Milk – Adjust amounts for preferred richness and texture.
Add More Greens – Try kale or spinach for a twist on traditional cabbage.