Colcannon Soup

Name: Colcannon Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 1/4 cup unsalted butter: adds richness and a smooth base; 1/2 cup diced onion: provides aromatic sweetness; 1 teaspoon minced garlic: enhances savory depth; 3 cups chopped green cabbage (about 1/2 head): adds texture and mild sweetness; 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped (about 2 pounds): adds creaminess and body; 6 cups vegetable broth: forms the flavorful liquid base; 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste): brings out overall flavor; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: adds mild heat and balance; 1 cup half and half: makes the soup creamy and smooth; 2 cups chopped kale leaves: adds texture, nutrition, and color; Sliced green onion (for garnish): offers fresh, bright flavor; Chopped cooked bacon (for garnish, optional): adds a salty, savory crunch

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Colcannon Soup — a creamy, savory blend of potatoes, cabbage, and kale, inspired by the traditional Irish dish. This soul-warming recipe is the perfect balance of rustic texture and velvety smoothness, ideal for chilly evenings or a festive St. Patrick’s Day celebration. With just a few budget-friendly ingredients and under an hour of cook time, you’ll have a nourishing soup that delivers big on flavor, tradition, and comfort.

Why You’ll Love Making This Creamy Irish Delight

Colcannon Soup is more than just a seasonal favorite — it’s an easy, everyday meal that works for all occasions. This hearty dish combines the wholesomeness of vegetables with creamy indulgence, making it both family-friendly and elegant enough to serve at gatherings.

Quick and Simple: Ready in under an hour with easy-to-find ingredients.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like potatoes and cabbage.
Perfect for Celebrations: A festive yet cozy dish for St. Patrick’s Day.
Velvety Texture: Creamy base with tender chunks of potatoes for a satisfying bite.

Whether you’re pairing it with Irish soda bread or enjoying it solo, this Colcannon Soup recipe will become a staple in your comfort food collection.

Ingredients That Build Bold Irish Flavor

Each ingredient in Colcannon Soup contributes to its hearty character and rich flavor. Here’s what makes this traditional Irish-inspired soup so special:

Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a silky base for sautéing vegetables.
Onion: Builds a flavorful foundation with sweet, aromatic depth.
Garlic: Brings a warm, savory sharpness that enhances the broth.
Green Cabbage: Provides subtle crunch and earthy sweetness.
Russet Potatoes: The heart of the soup — they create creaminess and body once blended.
Vegetable Broth: Keeps the soup vegetarian while infusing every spoonful with flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that highlight each ingredient’s taste.
Half and Half: Lends creamy texture without overpowering the delicate balance.
Kale Leaves: Adds color, texture, and nutritional value with a slightly bitter edge.
Green Onion: A fresh finishing touch for aroma and color.
Cooked Bacon (optional): A salty, crispy topping that takes the flavor to the next level.

Easy Ingredient Swaps to Suit Any Diet

Missing an ingredient or need to adjust for dietary preferences? No problem — Colcannon Soup is incredibly adaptable.

Butter → Use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
Vegetable Broth → Chicken broth can be used for extra savory depth.
Half and Half → Substitute with milk for a lighter option or heavy cream for added richness.
Kale → Spinach or Swiss chard work great if kale isn’t available.
Bacon Garnish → Leave it out for a vegetarian soup or swap with coconut bacon for a plant-based crunch.

These substitutions make it easy to personalize the soup while staying true to the Colcannon Soup inspiration.

How to Make Colcannon Soup Step by Step

Making this creamy Irish soup is straightforward and stress-free. Here’s how to turn simple ingredients into a velvety bowl of comfort:

Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Cook the Cabbage
Add chopped green cabbage to the pot and sauté until wilted and softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Simmer the Potatoes
Toss in the peeled, chopped russet potatoes, then pour in the vegetable broth. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend for Texture
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Aim for a thick consistency with some potato chunks remaining. (Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender or food processor.)
Add the Cream and Kale
Stir in the half and half, then return the soup to a gentle simmer. Add the chopped kale and let it wilt slightly for 2–3 minutes.
Serve and Garnish
Ladle into bowls and top with sliced green onions and crumbled cooked bacon if desired. Serve hot with hearty bread for dipping.

Tips for the Creamiest Colcannon Soup

Want to take your Colcannon Soup from great to unforgettable? These tips ensure a perfect bowl every time:

Don’t Over-Blend: Leave some potato chunks for texture — this keeps the soup hearty.
Add Broth as Needed: If your soup gets too thick, thin it with extra broth or a splash of milk.
Cook Kale Gently: Add the kale at the end so it stays vibrant and slightly crisp.
Make Ahead: Flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep.
Customize Consistency: Prefer a smooth soup? Blend longer. Want rustic? Blend less.

Pair It, Tweak It, Love It

Colcannon Soup is versatile enough to stand on its own, but it also shines when paired or modified:

What to Serve With Colcannon Soup

Irish Soda Bread
Cheddar Scones
Garlic Croutons
Buttered Peas
Roasted Carrots

Creative Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Naturally gluten-free — just pair with GF bread.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and skip the bacon.
Fully Loaded: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chives.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Cool completely and freeze flat in bags for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Thaw overnight if frozen. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Why Colcannon Soup Belongs in Your Recipe Rotation

Colcannon Soup isn’t just for St. Patrick’s Day — it’s a comfort classic that’s good year-round. With its creamy texture, layered flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that fits into busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and endlessly customizable.

So grab your pot, your potatoes, and your cabbage — and make a pot of Irish magic with this creamy, comforting Colcannon Soup.

Wrapping Up: Creamy Comfort with Colcannon Soup

There’s a reason Colcannon Soup continues to win hearts — it’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and carries the comforting soul of Irish cuisine. Whether you’re preparing a festive St. Patrick’s Day meal or looking for a nourishing, budget-friendly dish to warm your weeknights, this creamy Irish soup fits the bill. With velvety potatoes, tender greens, and customizable ingredients, Colcannon Soup proves that classic flavors never go out of style.

Add it to your seasonal menu, share it with loved ones, or freeze it for a future lazy-day dinner. No matter how you serve it, this satisfying soup delivers flavor, tradition, and a whole lot of comfort in every bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colcannon Soup

What is the difference between Colcannon and Colcannon Soup?

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale. Colcannon Soup takes those same ingredients and transforms them into a creamy, savory soup. It maintains the comforting, earthy flavors of the original dish but offers them in a warm, spoonable format perfect for chilly weather.

Can I make Colcannon Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Colcannon Soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Is Colcannon Soup vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth and contains no meat (though it’s often topped with optional bacon). To make it vegan, swap the butter for olive oil or vegan butter, use a plant-based milk instead of half and half, and skip the bacon garnish or use a vegan alternative.

Can I freeze Colcannon Soup?

Yes, Colcannon Soup freezes very well. Let it cool fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. Lay flat to save space, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove, adding a little broth to loosen the texture if needed.

More Relevant Recipes

Rustic Roasted Winter Vegetable Chowder: This hearty, vegetable-packed chowder shares Colcannon Soup’s comforting texture and warming flavors. With roasted root vegetables and a rich broth, it’s a cozy, nutritious option for chilly evenings.
Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: For a creamy soup variation with a hint of spice, this enchilada-inspired recipe offers depth and comfort. It’s perfect for fans of Colcannon Soup looking to explore bold, rich flavors.
Crockpot Lasagna Soup: Another hearty, creamy bowlful, this lasagna soup is layered with pasta, tomato richness, and cheese — making it a satisfying alternative with similar warm and indulgent vibes to Colcannon Soup.

Colcannon Soup – Creamy Irish Classic You’ll Love

Table of Contents