If you’re looking for a heartwarming, comfort-food classic that combines creamy mashed potatoes with flavorful greens and crispy bacon, you have to try this Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe. It’s a beautiful twist on traditional Irish colcannon, bringing together tender Yukon Gold potatoes, savory bacon, and caramelized cabbage for a dish that’s comforting, rich in texture, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As simple as it is soulful, the ingredients for this Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe are straightforward but essential for hitting just the right balance of creaminess, savory crunch, and classic earthiness. Each component contributes not only to taste but also to texture and that inviting golden color that makes colcannon so irresistible.
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture, or Russet for fluffier mash.
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon: Diced bacon brings a deeply savory, smoky crunch that elevates the dish.
- 3 cups green cabbage, finely shredded: Adds a mild sweetness and tender bite with a hint of earthy green vibrancy.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create a creamy, velvety mash.
- ¾ cup whole milk, warmed: Warm milk smooths out the potatoes while adding subtle creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Season to taste, enhancing all the flavorful components perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy note that balances the dish.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional): A fresh, oniony garnish that adds brightness and color.
How to Make Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by placing your peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot filled with cold, salted water. Bring it all to a boil, then lower the heat to let the potatoes simmer gently until they’re tender enough to easily pierce with a fork, usually around 15 to 18 minutes. This step ensures your potatoes are perfectly cooked for smooth mashing.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet over medium and cook your diced thick-cut bacon until it’s crispy and browned to perfection. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess grease. Don’t toss all the bacon fat though – you’ll keep about a tablespoon or two for sautéing the cabbage, since it adds incredible flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Cabbage
In the skillet with reserved bacon fat, toss in the finely shredded green cabbage. Sauté it for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then, until the cabbage softens and develops light caramelization. This step deepens the sweetness of the cabbage and gives it a nice golden color and tender texture.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
Drain the cooked potatoes well, then return them to the pot and let them steam briefly for 1 to 2 minutes to remove any extra moisture. Add your butter next and mash the potatoes until mostly smooth. Then, gradually stir in the warm whole milk little by little, mashing gently as you go, until your mash becomes creamy and luscious.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Fold the cooked cabbage and most of the crispy bacon pieces into your creamy mashed potatoes. Stir everything together gently so the flavors mingle without losing texture. Taste and season the colcannon liberally with salt and black pepper to make every bite pop just right.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the reserved bacon on top along with the optional thinly sliced green onions. This not only adds an inviting crunch and fresh bite but makes your Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe look absolutely delightful on the table.
How to Serve Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the crispy bacon and green onions already sprinkled on top, a pat of butter melting into the warm colcannon or a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper can add beautiful finishing touches. These simple garnishes enhance the overall look and flavor without overpowering the classic dish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with hearty stews, roasted chicken, or even grilled sausages. The creamy, smoky flavors in the colcannon complement richly flavored mains, while the cabbage offers a touch of freshness. Consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables for a full, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, scoop the Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe into a rustic bowl, topped with your garnish of choice. If you want to impress guests, try plating it with a neat mound and topping with a few extra crispy bacon shards and chopped chives. Leftover colcannon can even be formed into cakes and pan-fried until golden for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover colcannon is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it before sealing to maintain the texture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze colcannon, but because of the milk and butter, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible, and use within 1 month for optimal taste.
Reheating
Reheat your colcannon gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or butter to rehydrate and fluff up the mash. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring every minute to avoid drying out. This ensures your Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe tastes just as comforting the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes instead of Yukon Gold or Russet?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are preferred for their texture and creaminess, red potatoes or even fingerlings can work if you don’t mind a chunkier mash. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is there a substitute for bacon if I want a vegetarian option?
Yes! You can omit the bacon and sauté the cabbage in butter or olive oil instead. For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the cabbage while cooking.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can make the colcannon a few hours ahead and keep it warm, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If preparing in advance, store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
What makes colcannon different from regular mashed potatoes?
Colcannon is enriched with cabbage (or sometimes kale) and often includes scallions or leeks, giving it a unique texture and slightly earthy, fresh flavor that sets it apart from plain mashed potatoes.
Can I add other greens besides cabbage?
Definitely! Kale, spinach, or Swiss chard can be great alternatives or additions to cabbage in colcannon. Just make sure to sauté them until tender before mixing in.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of this Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe that makes it feel like a hug on a plate. The creamy mash, savory bacon, and tender cabbage come together in perfect harmony to create a dish that’s perfect for any day you need a little home cooking magic. I encourage you to try it—you might find this classic becoming a beloved staple in your own kitchen too!
Print
Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
This easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon recipe features creamy mashed potatoes combined with sautéed green cabbage and crispy bacon, creating a comforting and flavorful traditional Irish side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
Bacon and Cabbage
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 3 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
Dairy and Seasonings
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional Garnish
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for 15–18 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Cook Bacon: While the potatoes are cooking, add the diced bacon to a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy, then transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Prepare Cabbage: Leave about 1–2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet, discarding any excess fat. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and lightly caramelizes.
- Drain Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Let them steam for 1–2 minutes to evaporate any excess moisture.
- Mash Potatoes: Mash the potatoes together with the butter until mostly smooth.
- Add Milk: Gradually stir in the warm milk, mashing gently until the mixture becomes creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Fold the sautéed cabbage and most of the crispy bacon into the mashed potatoes, saving some bacon for garnish.
- Season and Serve: Season the colcannon with salt and black pepper to taste. Top with the remaining bacon and optional sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery flavor and creamier texture.
- Be sure to warm the milk before adding to keep the mashed potatoes hot and smooth.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to personal preference.
- Green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor as a garnish, but can be omitted if desired.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
