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Creamy Colcannon Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage

colcannon mashed potatoes - featured image

Creamy colcannon mashed potatoes with cabbage is a classic Irish comfort food featuring fluffy potatoes, rich cream, and sweet, gently wilted cabbage with green onions. This easy, crowd-pleasing side dish is perfect for holidays or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for boiling water)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for serving
  • 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half; oat or almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 4 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for drizzling)
  • Chives or extra green onions, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Peel and cut potatoes into evenly sized chunks (about 1½ inches). Rinse under cool water to remove excess starch. Finely shred cabbage and slice green onions.
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, until fork-tender but not falling apart.
  3. While potatoes cook, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shredded cabbage and green onions. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until cabbage is soft and bright but not browned. Set aside.
  4. Drain potatoes in a colander. Return to the hot pot and let sit, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  5. Mash potatoes with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and fluffy. Leave a few small lumps for rustic texture if desired.
  6. In a small saucepan or microwave, heat milk and heavy cream until just warm. Stir in 4 tablespoons butter until melted. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the potatoes, stirring gently. Add more or less milk for desired consistency. Season with black pepper and extra salt to taste.
  7. Gently fold sautéed cabbage and green onions into the mashed potatoes until evenly combined. Reserve some for topping if desired.
  8. Spoon colcannon into a serving bowl. Make a well in the center and pour in melted butter. Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions. Serve hot.

Notes

For dairy-free or vegan, use plant-based butter and unsweetened non-dairy milk. Kale, spinach, or leeks can be substituted for cabbage or green onions. Don’t overmix potatoes to avoid gluey texture. Warm dairy before adding for best results. Make ahead by preparing potatoes and cabbage separately, then combine before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: colcannon, mashed potatoes, Irish, cabbage, comfort food, St. Patrick's Day, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy side dish