Get ready to celebrate all things Irish! March 17th may be just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start cooking up some festive fun in the kitchen. To help you do just that, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious and traditional St Patrick’s Day recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From hearty stews and comfort foods to sweet treats and creamy desserts, our collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are easy to follow and will add a touch of Irish magic to your St Patrick’s Day celebrations.
So put on your greenest attire, grab a shamrock (or two), and get cooking with these 20 festive St Patrick’s Day recipes!
Irish Beef and Guinness Stew
Irish Beef and Guinness Stew: A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, rich Guinness stout, and savory vegetables. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove beef from pot; set aside. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Guinness stout, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to pot; add carrots and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traditional Irish Soda Bread
Savor the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked soda bread, a staple of Irish cuisine. This recipe yields a deliciously tender and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for sopping up soups or serving with butter and jam.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet or Dutch oven.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead for 1-2 minutes, until smooth.
6. Shape into a round loaf or oblong shape. Place on prepared baking sheet or in Dutch oven.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Corned Beef and Cabbage
This hearty and comforting dish is a staple of Irish cuisine, made with tender corned beef, fresh cabbage, and a hint of spice. With this simple recipe, you can enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors of traditional corned beef and cabbage in just under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef brisket
– 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water or beer (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the corned beef in a large pot or Dutch oven with enough water or beer to cover it.
2. Add the brown sugar, mustard seeds, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the cabbage wedges to the pot. Cook until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Serve the corned beef with the cooked cabbage and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Shepherd’s Pie with Lamb
Classic Shepherd’s Pie with Lamb Recipe
A hearty and comforting dish, this Shepherd’s Pie with lamb is a twist on the traditional beef-based recipe. This rich and flavorful pie is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Season the lamb mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the lamb mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top the lamb mixture with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Irish Potato Farls
Traditional Irish potato farls are a beloved breakfast staple, made by cooking grated potatoes with flour and water to create crispy, golden-brown patties. This simple recipe yields delicious results that will start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Gradually add in the water, stirring until the mixture forms a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop the potato mixture by spoonfuls onto the skillet, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the farls are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm, perhaps with butter, eggs, or your favorite breakfast accompaniments.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch, depending on the size of the farls.
Colcannon with Kale and Bacon
This recipe puts a modern spin on the traditional Irish dish, Colcannon, by adding some crispy bacon and curly kale to the mix. The result is a creamy, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cooked mashed potatoes
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened.
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in the mashed potatoes, cooked bacon, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot with butter melted on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake
Elevate your cheesecake game with the addition of Bailey’s Irish Cream, adding a depth of flavor and creaminess to this classic dessert. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion that calls for a little luxury.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add granulated sugar, eggs (saving whites for later), and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in Bailey’s Irish Cream.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan; smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes – 1 hour 10 minutes
Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream
A rich and creamy twist on the classic cocktail, this Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream is perfect for cold winter nights or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 ounce Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– Heavy whipped cream, for topping
Instructions:
1. In a preheated glass mug, add the brewed coffee and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the Irish whiskey and stir gently to combine.
3. Pour the mixture into a warmed glass mug or cup.
4. Top with heavy whipped cream, holding back any excess with a spatula or spoon.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Guinness Chocolate Cake
This rich and indulgent cake combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate and roasted coffee with the creamy texture of Guinness stout, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (250ml) Guinness stout, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine Guinness stout, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Irish Lamb Stew
Warm up with a rich and flavorful Irish lamb stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening in. This traditional recipe is a staple of Irish cuisine, made with tender lamb, root vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 cup Guinness stout (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb in batches, then set aside.
2. Add more oil if needed, then sauté the onion until softened. Add carrots and potatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, broth, Guinness (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return lamb to pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
Cooking Time: About 1 1/2 hours
Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy
Classic Bangers and Mash with Onion Gravy Recipe
A comforting and flavorful British-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe combines juicy sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich onion gravy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bangers (British-style sausages)
– 3-4 large potatoes
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and season with salt.
3. Cook the sausages in a pan over medium heat, browning on both sides. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add chopped onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add flour and whisk to combine; gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
5. Serve sausages on top of mashed potatoes, spooning the onion gravy over.
Cooking Time:
– Sausages: 10-12 minutes
– Mashed potatoes: 15-20 minutes
– Onion gravy: 10-12 minutes
Irish Coddle with Sausage and Potatoes
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, Irish Coddle is a traditional recipe that combines sausage, potatoes, and vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sausages (such as Irish sausage or bangers), sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the thinly sliced potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Boxty Irish Potato Pancakes
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and fluffy Boxty Irish Potato Pancakes, a popular dish from Ireland’s Gaeltacht region. These pancakes are made with a mixture of cooked potatoes, onions, and flour, then fried until golden brown.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, and flour.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, chives, or bacon bits.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Shamrock Shake with Mint Ice Cream
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a refreshing twist on the classic mint milkshake. This Shamrock Shake combines rich mint ice cream, creamy whipped topping, and a hint of green food coloring for an emerald hue.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups mint ice cream
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 drops green food coloring (optional)
– Whipped topping and chopped mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mint ice cream, heavy whipping cream, and softened butter. Blend until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and blend until well combined.
3. If desired, add 1-2 drops of green food coloring to tint the shake. Blend until color is evenly distributed.
4. Pour the Shamrock Shake into glasses or mugs.
5. Top with whipped topping and garnish with chopped mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None
Irish Apple Crumble
Warm up with a classic Irish dessert that combines tender apples with a crunchy oat topping. This easy-to-make crumble is perfect for cozy nights in or as a show-stopping dessert for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Mix until coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Spread the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Potato and Leek Soup
This rich and comforting soup is a perfect blend of potatoes, leeks, and aromatic spices. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sliced leeks and cook until they start to caramelize, about 10 minutes.
3. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Irish Seafood Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of fresh seafood, creamy potatoes, and rich flavors, sure to warm your belly on a chilly day. With its rich broth and tender chunks of fish, it’s a staple of Irish cuisine that’s easy to make and delightfully satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (cod, haddock, scallops), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add seafood, potatoes, flour, and fish stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in milk or heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Cheddar Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines caramelized onions with sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for a dinner party or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add sugar, salt, and olive oil during cooking.
4. Arrange cooked onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the onions.
6. Brush edges of pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Green Velvet Cupcakes
These Green Velvet Cupcakes are a creative spin on the traditional recipe, featuring a vibrant green color and subtle hints of mint. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– Green food coloring (about 1-2 drops)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and peppermint extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add milk and green food coloring; mix until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Leprechaun Bark with White Chocolate
Add a touch of magic to your snack time with this easy-to-make Leprechaun Bark, featuring white chocolate and colorful sprinkles. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion that calls for a little Irish charm.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon green food coloring (optional)
– 1 cup mixed sprinkles (yellow, orange, and green)
– 1 tablespoon chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in butter and green food coloring (if using).
4. Pour melted white chocolate onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle mixed sprinkles and chopped nuts (if using) over the top of the white chocolate.
6. Melt milk chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Drizzle melted milk chocolate over the sprinkles and nuts.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
9. Break into pieces and serve.
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (including melting time)
Summary
Get ready to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with these delicious and festive recipes! From classic Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and soda bread, to sweet treats like Bailey’s cheesecake and Guinness chocolate cake, there’s something for everyone on this list of 20 mouth-watering recipes. Whether you’re looking for hearty stews, savory main courses, or decadent desserts, these St. Patrick’s Day recipes are sure to bring a touch of Irish magic to your holiday celebration.