Irish Colcannon Potato Bowls

Name: Irish Colcannon Potato Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 cup green cabbage, shredded; 4 scallions, chopped; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Crispy bacon, chopped; Chopped parsley

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely adore making Irish Colcannon Potato Bowls, as they're not only comforting but also a wonderful way to elevate traditional mashed potatoes. The combination of creamy potatoes with vibrant greens and a hint of butter creates an irresistible dish that I love to serve. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these bowls are always a hit that leave everyone asking for the recipe. Let's dig in and explore this heartwarming dish together!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:42:19.116Z

When I first tried Irish Colcannon, it felt like a warm embrace on a chilly day. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, combined with the softness of the cabbage, really stands out. I quickly learned that adding a touch of scallions elevates the dish, bringing freshness that you wouldn't expect from comfort food. The secret is in the blending; allowing the potatoes to rest before mixing in other ingredients results in a richer flavor.

In fact, during one of our family gatherings, I decided to put my spin on it by adding crispy bacon on top. The savory crunch paired perfectly with the creamy base, and everyone loved it! I encourage you to be adventurous with toppings; they can make all the difference and add a personal touch to your Colcannon bowls.

Why You'll Love These Bowls
Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul
Deliciously balanced flavors between potatoes and greens
A classic dish that's perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Properly Cooking Potatoes

The key to achieving the right texture in your Colcannon is ensuring that the potatoes are properly cooked. Boiling them in salted water until fork-tender for about 15 minutes will allow them to become fluffy when mashed. Overcooking can lead to waterlogged potatoes, while undercooking will make them difficult to mash. Aim for a smooth, creamy consistency without any lumps, which comes from a gentle mash rather than a vigorous beating.

A potato ricer is an excellent tool for achieving a velvety mash. If you don’t have one, a traditional potato masher will do the trick, but be careful not to overwork the potatoes, as this can lead to a gummy texture. For a richer flavor, consider using russet potatoes; their high starch content creates the perfect creamy base for this dish.

Enhancing Flavor with Cabbage and Scallions

The inclusion of shredded cabbage brings both texture and a slight sweetness to the dish. Sautéing the cabbage until it's softened, about 5 minutes, allows it to caramelize slightly, deepening its flavor profile. If green cabbage isn't available, feel free to substitute with kale or even spinaches, which will add a slightly different taste yet still maintain the overall essence of the dish.

Scallions lend a fresh onion flavor that brightens the creamy potatoes. When chopped, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the Colcannon. Both the cabbage and scallions are essential to achieving that classic Irish comfort food vibe, so don’t skip them—even the simplest ingredients can make a significant impact on the final dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Colcannon:

For the Colcannon

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup green cabbage, shredded
4 scallions, chopped
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving (Optional)

Crispy bacon, chopped
Chopped parsley

Make sure to have everything measured out before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Irish Colcannon Potato Bowls:

Prepare the Potatoes

In a large pot, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.

Cook the Cabbage

While the potatoes are cooking, in a separate pan, sauté the shredded cabbage with a bit of butter until softened, about 5 minutes.

Mash the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Fold in the cooked cabbage and scallions into the mashed potatoes, mixing gently to combine.

Serve

Spoon the Colcannon into bowls and top with crispy bacon and parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

Now that you've prepared your Colcannon, don't forget to serve it hot!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding some shredded cheese or cream cheese for extra creaminess. You can also substitute kale for cabbage for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Tips

Colcannon can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. After cooking and combining the ingredients, let the mixture cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

If you're planning to freeze Colcannon for later use, portion it out in freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a pot, adding a bit of extra butter or cream to help revive the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Colcannon is traditionally served as a side dish, but it can easily become a meal in itself with a few simple additions. Consider topping your bowls with a poached egg for extra protein and a beautiful runny yolk that mingles deliciously with the creamy potatoes. Alternatively, shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed mushrooms can make this dish heartier.

If you enjoy a little spice, you can add a sprinkle of chili flakes or even drizzle a homemade chili oil on top. For a vegetarian version, replace the crispy bacon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas, bringing both flavor and texture without sacrificing the comforting feel of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Colcannon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Colcannon a day in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

→ What can I use instead of potatoes?

You can use cauliflower for a lower-carb version, although the texture will be different.

→ Is Colcannon suitable for freezing?

It is not recommended to freeze Colcannon, as the texture can change when thawed.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots or peas can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.