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If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s bursting with rustic charm and rich flavor, then this Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe is calling your name. This classic Irish dish takes creamy, buttery mashed potatoes and elevates them with the smoky crunch of bacon, tender kale or cabbage, and subtle sharpness from scallions. It’s a brilliant fusion of textures and tastes that makes every bite feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving something hearty for dinner, this recipe brings that authentic taste of Ireland right to your kitchen table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, straightforward ingredients are the heart and soul of this Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe. Each plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and fresh flavors, while also adding to the comforting texture and color that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Russet potatoes: These fluffy potatoes are perfect for mashing, delivering the creamy texture this dish demands.
- Bacon: Adds smoky, crispy bits that contrast wonderfully with the softness of the potatoes.
- Kale or green cabbage: Brings a fresh, earthy flavor and vibrant green color, plus a slight bite that’s balanced by cooking.
- Scallions (green parts only): Offer a mild oniony brightness without overpowering the dish.
- Heavy or whipping cream: Creates a silky, luxurious feel in the mashed potatoes.
- Butter: Essential for richness and that melt-in-your-mouth appeal, plus a little extra on top when serving.
- Salt & pepper: Basic seasonings that awaken all the flavors and tie everything together perfectly.
How to Make Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by placing your chunked russet potatoes into a large pot of salted boiling water. The salt is important—it seasons the potatoes from the inside out. Cook them until they become tender enough to pierce easily with a fork, usually around 15-20 minutes. Then drain well and set aside to let them steam dry a bit for the creamiest mash possible.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
While the potatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your chopped bacon pieces. Cook them slowly until they reach that perfect balance of just crispy and still juicy. This smoky bacon will add incredible depth of flavor to your Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Sauté the Greens
Once the bacon is nearly done, toss in your chopped kale or green cabbage. Stir frequently and cook until the greens soften and become slightly tender—this usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes. The gentle wilt transforms the greens from raw bitterness to earthy goodness.
Step 4: Add the Scallions
Next, throw in the chopped green parts of your scallions. Cook them for just a minute or two to take the edge off their sharpness but still retain their fresh, lively flavor. This quick sauté elevates the whole dish by adding a subtle onion note without overwhelming anything.
Step 5: Mash and Combine
Time to bring everything together! Mash your cooked potatoes with butter and heavy cream until luxuriously smooth. Then fold in the bacon and greens mixture, stirring everything until it’s fully incorporated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed—this is where the flavors truly marry into something magical.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Dish out your creamy, savory Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe onto plates or a serving bowl. Don’t skimp on a generous pat of butter melting right on top—that final touch makes the dish even more indulgent and inviting. Now, dig in and savor every comforting bite!
How to Serve Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over your Colcannon. A scatter of cracked black pepper or even a pinch of smoked paprika can add a delightful twist that makes the dish feel both homey and a little elevated.
Side Dishes
This Irish classic pairs beautifully with simple roasted meats like lamb or chicken, or alongside sausages for a pub-style feast. For a veggie boost, steamed carrots or buttered peas complement the flavors perfectly without competing with the rich mashed potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Colcannon in a rustic cast-iron skillet for a cozy family-style meal, or mound it up using a large spoon to create pretty peaks that catch melting butter in the crevices. For a party, turn it into bite-sized croquettes and fry them golden crisp—these bite-sized appetizers are always a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Colcannon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen, making it just as delicious the next day. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to keep the texture nice.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe, spread it into a freezer-safe container and cover tightly. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of the greens might soften slightly after thawing, but the flavor will remain wonderful.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your Colcannon in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of cream or a little butter while reheating refreshes the creamy texture beautifully. A quick zap in the microwave works too—just cover and stir halfway through for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffiness, you can use Yukon Golds if you prefer a slightly buttery texture. Just make sure the potatoes are good for mashing to get that creamy consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. Sautéed mushrooms can also add a meaty texture to keep your Colcannon richly satisfying.
Can I substitute kale for cabbage?
Yes, both work beautifully in this recipe. Kale gives a bit more chew and earthiness, while green cabbage offers a milder, sweeter flavor. Choose based on your taste or what’s freshest at the market.
How do I get my mashed potatoes extra creamy?
Make sure to drain your potatoes thoroughly and mash them while still hot. Adding warm cream and softened butter helps achieve that smooth, silky texture without lumps.
What’s the best way to cook bacon for this dish?
Cook bacon slowly over medium heat until it’s just crispy but still juicy. Rendering the fat gently allows the bacon to flavor the greens perfectly when you sauté them together in the same pan.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe—it’s simple, soulful, and downright delicious. It brings together comforting ingredients in a way that feels both traditional and fresh. So the next time you’re craving something hearty and heartwarming, give this dish a try. You might just find it becoming your new favorite side or even main dish to share with those you love.
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Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes) with Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Colcannon is a traditional Irish mashed potato dish featuring creamy mashed Russet potatoes blended with sautéed kale or cabbage, scallions, and crispy bacon. This hearty side dish is perfect for cozy dinners and offers a satisfying mix of creamy, smoky, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2.5 pounds Russet potatoes, cut into chunks
Meat
- 1/2 pound bacon, cut into small pieces
Vegetables
- 3 cups kale or green cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 bunch scallions (green parts only), chopped
Dairy
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons butter, plus extra for serving
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes: Place the Russet potato chunks in a large pot filled with salted boiling water. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Cook the bacon: While the potatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook until they are just crispy, releasing flavorful fat.
- Sauté the kale: To the skillet with the bacon, add the chopped kale (or green cabbage). Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the greens are tender and have absorbed bacon flavor.
- Add scallions: Stir in the chopped green parts of the scallions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just enough to mellow their sharpness.
- Mash the potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot and mash them thoroughly with the heavy cream and butter until creamy and smooth.
- Combine all components: Mix the sautéed bacon, kale, and scallions into the mashed potatoes, mashing gently to incorporate everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the colcannon into bowls or onto plates and top with an extra pat of butter to melt over the warm dish. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their starchy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes can be used as a substitute.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and sauté the kale with butter and garlic instead.
- You may substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a milk alternative for a lighter dish, though it may affect creaminess.
- Add nutmeg or a pinch of cayenne for additional flavor variations.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with corned beef or roasted meats.
