If you’ve ever dreamed of a hearty, comforting potato dish that feels like a warm hug, then you’re going to love this Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe. It takes the traditional Irish favorite and makes it effortless by slow-cooking tender potatoes with savory kale and rich cream, all in one pot. The addition of crispy bacon and fresh chives takes this dish from simple to spectacular, making it perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for a cozy side that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and the secret to making this Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe so irresistible. Each component is simple yet plays an essential role, whether it’s adding creaminess, texture, or a burst of freshness.
- Russet Potatoes: The starchy nature of these potatoes ensures a fluffy, creamy mash every time.
- Chicken Stock: Using stock instead of water infuses subtle savory depth into the potatoes as they cook.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that awaken the natural flavors of the potatoes and kale.
- Kale: Adds an earthy, vibrant green twist and nutrients that perfectly complement the potatoes.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a luscious, smooth texture that makes this mash feel downright indulgent.
- Butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
- Bacon: Crispy and smoky, it adds wonderful crunch and a burst of savory goodness.
- Chives: Fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the dish and adds a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Potatoes
Start by peeling your Russet potatoes and cutting them into generous chunks. Place these chunks in your crockpot and cover them completely with chicken stock—about 2 to 3 cups will do. Season with salt and pepper to set a flavorful base. Cooking the potatoes in stock adds a subtle richness that plain water just can’t match. Set your crockpot to high and let everything simmer away for four hours until the potatoes are perfectly soft and tender.
Step 2: Add the Kale
With just 30 minutes left on your timer, it’s time to add the chopped kale. This timing ensures the kale is cooked through but still maintains some texture and vibrant green color. The kale melds beautifully into the potatoes, offering a classic Irish twist that balances the dish with a boost of earthiness and nutrients.
Step 3: Mash and Mix
Once your crockpot finishes, drain the potatoes and kale well using a colander to remove any excess liquid. Return them to the crockpot and toss in about 4 tablespoons of butter right away. Now pour in the heavy whipping cream slowly while using a hand mixer to mash everything together to your preferred creaminess. This step turns the dish into that dreamy, velvety mashed potato comfort food we all love. Finally, fold in three-quarters of your crumbled bacon to add smoky crunch throughout.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Make a little well or divot in the center of your Colcannon potatoes and drop the last bit of butter right into it for a rich melt-in-your-mouth finish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon and chopped chives over the top as a colorful, zesty garnish. Your Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe is now ready to wow!
How to Serve Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a special way to amp up both the presentation and flavor of this dish. Crispy bacon pieces scattered on top provide fantastic texture contrast, while freshly chopped chives add brightness and a mild onion flavor that perfectly cuts through the richness. A pat of melting butter in the center creates an inviting, glossy finish that’s too tempting to resist.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with hearty proteins like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared salmon. The creamy, savory potatoes complement robust main dishes and are comforting enough to serve alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive dinner, serve your Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe in a rustic ceramic bowl lined with extra chives and bacon on top. You could also portion the potatoes into small ramekins and bake briefly with a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese for an irresistible golden crust. Whether family-style or plated elegantly, this dish always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes keep nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store them once cooled fully to keep their texture and freshness intact.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months, but keep in mind that potatoes sometimes tend to change texture after freezing. For best results, freeze in portion-sized containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess if needed. Stir well to heat evenly and top with fresh chives and any reserved bacon for that great fresh flavor punch.
FAQs
Can I use different greens instead of kale?
Absolutely! While kale gives that traditional Colcannon feel, you can substitute it with cabbage, spinach, or Swiss chard depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
Do I have to use chicken stock?
Not at all. Vegetable stock or even water seasoned with salt can work if you’re aiming for a vegetarian version or just want a simpler base. Chicken stock does add a nice depth but isn’t mandatory.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and replace butter with vegan margarine or olive oil to keep things creamy yet dairy-free.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a regular pot instead of a crockpot?
Yes, you can boil the potatoes in stock on the stove and then mash with the same additions. However, the slow cooking in the crockpot enhances flavor and texture in a way that’s hard to replicate on the stovetop.
What’s the best way to crisp up the bacon for this dish?
Cook your bacon low and slow in a pan or bake in the oven on a rack to get perfectly crispy, sturdy pieces that hold up well as a garnish and flavor boost in the potatoes.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a well-made batch of Colcannon, and this Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe makes creating that rustic charm easier than ever. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy side to brighten your weeknight table, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds and sharing the love with friends and family.
Print
Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
A comforting and hearty Crockpot Colcannon Potatoes recipe combining creamy mashed potatoes with savory bacon, tender kale, and rich butter, slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot for an easy, hands-off meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Stock
- 5–6 large Russet Potatoes
- 3 cups Chicken stock (to cover potatoes, about 2–3 cups)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 3 cups chopped kale
Dairy and Fats
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 5–6 tablespoons butter
Additional Ingredients
- 8 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel and cut the Russet potatoes into chunks. Place them into the crockpot and cover with chicken stock (about 2-3 cups), seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook Potatoes and Kale: Cook the potatoes on high for 4 hours. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the chopped kale to the crockpot to soften and blend flavors.
- Mash Potatoes: Once the 4 hours are complete, drain the potatoes and kale using a colander, then return them to the crockpot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while using a hand mixer to mash the potatoes to your preferred consistency. Stir in three-quarters of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
- Garnish and Serve: Create a small well or divot on the top of the mashed potatoes and place the remaining butter inside. Garnish with the rest of the crumbled bacon and chopped chives for a final touch before serving.
Notes
- Use Russet potatoes for the best texture in mashed potatoes.
- Chicken stock adds extra flavor but can be substituted with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
- Kale can be substituted with other greens like spinach or collard greens.
- For a creamier texture, adjust the amount of heavy cream to your preference.
- Leftover mashed potatoes can be refrigerated and reheated gently with added cream or butter to restore creaminess.
