Easy Irish Colcannon with Bacon Recipe

If one dish truly represents Irish comfort food, it’s Colcannon with Bacon.
This classic recipe blends creamy mashed potatoes, tender cabbage, rich butter, and crispy bacon into one warm and satisfying dish.

Passed down through generations, colcannon is loved for its simple ingredients and bold flavor. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just want a cozy dinner at home, this easy Irish colcannon with bacon belongs on your table.

Ingredients for Traditional Colcannon with Bacon

One reason this dish is so popular is how simple it is. Each ingredient plays an important role, so good quality makes a big difference.

• Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold give you a light, creamy mash
• Cabbage: Green cabbage is traditional, but Savoy cabbage also works for a softer bite
• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds rich flavor and a crisp texture
• Butter: Use real, unsalted butter for the best taste and control over salt
• Milk or cream: Whole milk keeps it classic, while heavy cream makes it extra rich
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning lets the flavors shine
• Optional additions: Green onions, leeks, or garlic add depth without overpowering the dish

How to Make Colcannon with Bacon

This colcannon with bacon recipe is easy to follow, but a few small steps make it truly great.

Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in well-salted water until fork-tender. Drain well, then let them sit for a minute so steam can escape. This helps keep the mashed potatoes fluffy instead of watery.

While the potatoes cook, fry the bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan. This flavorful fat will be used to cook the cabbage.

Finely shred the cabbage and gently sauté it in the bacon fat until soft but not mushy. This step adds smoky flavor and removes any raw or bitter taste.

Mash the hot potatoes with butter and warm milk or cream until smooth and creamy. Do not overmix, as this can make the potatoes sticky. Gently fold in the cooked cabbage and most of the bacon, saving some for the top. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Finish with a small pat of butter and a sprinkle of the remaining bacon before serving.

Tips for Creamy and Flavorful Colcannon

Perfect Irish colcannon with bacon is all about balance and texture.

• Mash potatoes while they’re still hot for the smoothest result
• Warm the milk or cream before adding it to avoid cooling the potatoes
• Use a potato masher, not a food processor, to prevent gluey potatoes
• Cook the cabbage until fully soft to avoid crunch or bitterness
• Add bacon at the end so it stays crisp while still flavoring the dish

Always taste as you go. Potatoes soak up salt, so proper seasoning is key.

Variations on Classic Colcannon with Bacon

While traditional colcannon is hard to beat, small changes can fit different tastes.

Kale is a classic swap for cabbage and gives a deeper, earthy flavor. Leeks or green onions can be sautéed and mixed in for a mild onion taste. For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk or add a little sour cream.

Vegetarian versions leave out the bacon and use butter or olive oil to cook the greens. Vegan options replace dairy with plant-based butter and milk while keeping the same creamy texture.

No matter the version, the goal stays the same: creamy potatoes, tender greens, and rich flavor.

What to Serve with Colcannon with Bacon

Colcannon with bacon is usually served as a side dish, but it’s filling enough to enjoy on its own.

It pairs well with roasted chicken, pork, or beef and is especially popular with sausages or corned beef. For a traditional Irish-style meal, serve it with lamb or ham and a simple gravy.

Leftovers taste just as good the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or pan-fry spoonfuls to make crispy potato cakes.

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