Diane’s Colcannon: Hearty Irish Potato and Cabbage Comfort Dish
Diane’s Colcannon: A Hearty Irish Side Dish
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Colcannon is a beloved comfort food that blends creamy mashed potatoes, crisp bacon, and tender cabbage into a warm Irish side dish perfect for St. Patrick’s Day gatherings or any cozy dinner.
Prep Time: | Cook Time: | Total Time:
Servings: 8 servings | Cuisine: Irish | Category: Dinner, Side Dish
Ingredients for Creamy Colcannon
- 2.5 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients. Lay out potatoes, cabbage, bacon, butter, and milk. This simple preparation sets the stage for a fuss-free cooking experience.
- Boil the Potatoes. Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Cook the Bacon. While potatoes boil, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate, reserving drippings in the pan.
- Sauté the Cabbage. In the bacon fat, add shredded cabbage and sauté until wilted and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Mash the Potatoes. Drain potatoes and return to pot. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy—avoid overworking to keep them fluffy.
- Combine Everything. Gently fold in sautéed cabbage and crispy bacon. Season with salt and pepper. For an ultra-rich finish, stir in remaining butter.
- Serve Hot. Transfer to a warm serving bowl. Top with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of chopped chives or green onion, if desired.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for extra creaminess and natural butteriness.
- Add leeks or green onions for an aromatic twist.
- Swap bacon for pancetta to elevate the savory depth.
- Make it vegetarian by using olive oil instead of bacon fat and omitting the bacon.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
250 kcal • 30 g carbs • 5 g fiber • 6 g protein • 13 g fat • 6 g sat. fat • 217 mg sodium • 4 g sugar
Why You’ll Love This Irish Classic
Colcannon brings together the best of Irish comfort food—**rich mashed potatoes**, **savory bacon**, and **tender cabbage**—in one bowl. It’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, family dinners, or anytime you crave a hearty side dish with a touch of tradition.
Enjoy your homemade colcannon.
Recipe inspiration credit: Diane’s Colcannon on Allrecipes.
Diane’s Colcannon
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all ingredients.
- Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate, reserving drippings in the pan.
- Add shredded cabbage to the bacon fat and sauté until wilted and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Drain potatoes and return to pot. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and milk, then mash until smooth.
- Gently fold in sautéed cabbage and crispy bacon. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in remaining butter if desired.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, top with extra butter, and serve hot.
