10 Delicious Irish Recipes to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to whip up some delicious Irish recipes that celebrate the culture and flavors of Ireland. From hearty stews to sweet treats, this collection offers scrumptious dishes that are sure to please your friends and family. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Ireland right at your table!
Shepherd’s Pie with Creamy Mashed Topping

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic Irish dish that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. It combines savory ground meat and vegetables, all topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes. It has a comforting taste that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a favorite among families. Preparing Shepherd’s Pie allows for some creativity too; you can adjust the fillings to your liking! Below is a straightforward recipe to help you whip up this delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened. Add the ground meat, breaking it apart, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the carrots, peas, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, making sure to seal the edges.
- Sprinkle fresh thyme on top if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown. Enjoy your delicious Shepherd’s Pie!
Colcannon Potatoes with Savory Greens

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish that beautifully combines creamy mashed potatoes with vibrant greens, often kale or cabbage. This dish is not only hearty and comforting, but it also adds a nutritious twist to your meal. The combination of buttery potatoes and the savory flavor of greens creates a delightful balance that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
What’s great about colcannon is its simplicity. It’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. Plus, you can personalize it by adding ingredients like crispy bacon or herbs to elevate the flavor even more.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups kale or cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Greens: In a separate pot, steam the chopped kale or cabbage until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Combine: Fold the steamed greens into the mashed potatoes, mixing until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious colcannon!
Traditional Irish Beef and Guinness Stew

This hearty Irish Beef and Guinness Stew is a classic comfort food, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations. The rich flavors of tender beef, root vegetables, and savory Guinness beer come together to create a warm, satisfying dish that embodies the spirit of Ireland.
The stew is not only delicious but also quite simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can enjoy a deeply flavorful meal that encapsulates the essence of traditional Irish cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 bottle (12 oz) Guinness stout
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in batches, browning on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the potatoes, beef broth, Guinness, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread!
Corned Beef and Cabbage with Mustard Sauce

Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional Irish dish that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. The tender corned beef melts in your mouth, while the cabbage and carrots add a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and novice cooks.
The star of this recipe is the mustard sauce, which adds a zesty kick that elevates the flavors of the dish. Together, the savory beef and the crisp vegetables create a satisfying meal that celebrates Irish heritage. Serve it alongside some hearty bread, and you’ve got a feast!
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket
- 1 large head of cabbage, cut into wedges
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 8 cups water
- 2 tablespoons pickling spice
- 1/2 cup prepared mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Corned Beef: In a large pot, place the corned beef brisket and cover it with water. Add the pickling spice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Add the Vegetables: Once the beef is tender, add the cabbage wedges and carrot chunks to the pot. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Make the Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Slice the corned beef and serve it on a platter with the cabbage and carrots. Drizzle the mustard sauce over the top and enjoy!
Irish Lamb Stew with Root Vegetables

This Irish lamb stew is a heartwarming dish perfect for any occasion, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s packed with tender lamb, flavorful herbs, and hearty root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The taste is rich and savory, bringing the essence of Irish cuisine right to your table.
Making this stew is quite simple, requiring just a bit of chopping and simmering. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors meld together, making it an ideal dish for a cozy family dinner. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, and you have a meal that feels special without a lot of fuss!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb chunks and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the carrots and potatoes, then return the lamb to the pot. Pour in the broth and add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Irish Soda Bread Fresh from the Oven

Irish soda bread is a delightful and simple loaf that is perfect for any occasion, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. With its slightly sweet, buttery flavor and soft, crumbly texture, it’s comfort food at its finest. This bread doesn’t require yeast, making it quick and easy to whip up. Just mix, shape, and bake to enjoy a warm loaf fresh from the oven!
Traditionally, Irish soda bread uses baking soda as a leavening agent, resulting in a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with butter or jam. Serve it alongside soups or stews, or enjoy it on its own. No matter how you choose to savor it, this bread will surely bring a taste of Ireland to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the buttermilk. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for about one minute until just combined.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Cut a deep cross into the top of the loaf.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let cool slightly before slicing.
Irish Cream Liqueur Chocolate Truffles

Irish Cream Liqueur Chocolate Truffles are a delightful treat that perfectly blends the rich taste of chocolate with the smooth flavor of Irish cream. These truffles melt in your mouth, offering a sweet and slightly boozy kick that makes them an ideal indulgence for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Making these truffles is simple and fun, allowing you to whip them up quickly for any gathering or just to enjoy at home. The process involves mixing chocolate with cream and Irish cream liqueur, shaping them into balls, and rolling them in cocoa powder for a classic finish. They’re perfect for sharing or for an after-dinner treat!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur
- 1 cup cocoa powder (for coating)
- Optional: chocolate sprinkles or crushed nuts for additional coating
Instructions
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Add Irish Cream: Once the chocolate and cream mixture is smooth, stir in the Irish cream liqueur until well combined. Let it cool at room temperature until it thickens slightly.
- Shape the Truffles: Using a small scoop or your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Coat the Truffles: Roll each truffle in cocoa powder or your choice of sprinkles/nuts until fully coated. Place them back on the baking sheet.
- Chill: Refrigerate the truffles for about 30 minutes to set. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Dublin Coddle with Rustic Bread

Dublin Coddle is a hearty and satisfying Irish dish, perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. This comforting stew combines sausages, potatoes, and onions, simmered together for a rich and savory flavor. It’s not only simple to make but also a wonderful way to warm up on a chilly day.
The beauty of Dublin Coddle lies in its versatility—you can adapt it to include your favorite ingredients or what you have on hand. Serve it with rustic bread to soak up the delicious broth, making it a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 6 pork sausages
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Rustic bread for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the sausages over medium heat until they are nicely colored. Remove and set aside.
- Add the sliced onions to the pot and sauté until translucent. Layer the diced potatoes on top of the onions.
- Return the sausages to the pot, adding the broth, bay leaves, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the potatoes and sausages are cooked through.
- Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with slices of rustic bread.
Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy

Bangers and mash, while more of a UK dish is popular in Ireland and both comforting and hearty. Featuring juicy sausages served over creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is topped with rich onion gravy that brings everything together. The blend of flavors makes for a satisfying meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for a special occasion.
This recipe is a perfect choice for St. Patrick’s Day. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 large sausages (pork or beef)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Sausages: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Remove and keep warm.
- Make the Mashed Potatoes: While the sausages are cooking, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Onion Gravy: In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until softened and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: To plate, place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate, top with sausages, and drizzle onion gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Chocolate Guinness Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Chocolate Guinness Cake is a delightful treat perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. The rich, moist chocolate cake is infused with the deep flavors of Guinness, creating a unique taste that pairs beautifully with smooth cream cheese frosting. It’s simple to make, making it an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
The cake is not just delicious; it’s visually stunning with its dark chocolate layers and creamy frosting. Each bite offers a wonderful balance of sweetness and a slight bitterness from the beer, making it a memorable dessert for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a saucepan, combine the Guinness and cocoa powder over medium heat until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the butter until melted.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and sour cream until smooth. Add the Guinness mixture and stir until combined.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
- Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Finish with a dusting of cocoa powder for a beautiful presentation. Slice and enjoy!