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Creamy Colcannon Mashed Potatoes Recipe with Kale Butter and Crispy Leeks

creamy colcannon mashed potatoes - featured image

A comforting and creamy mashed potatoes recipe enhanced with kale butter and topped with crispy leeks for added texture and flavor. Perfect for easy comfort meals with a twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for boiling the potatoes)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup kale leaves, finely chopped and stems removed
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil (for frying)
  • Pinch of salt (for frying leeks)
  • ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
  • Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish
  • Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and chunked Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
  2. While potatoes cook, make the kale butter: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the softened butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the chopped kale and cook for 3–5 minutes until wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Prepare the crispy leeks: Heat oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced leeks and a pinch of salt. Fry, stirring occasionally, for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  4. Drain the potatoes well and return to the pot or a large bowl. Use a potato masher to start breaking them down.
  5. Pour the kale butter mixture over the mashed potatoes. Add warm milk or cream gradually, mashing and stirring until the potatoes reach your preferred creamy texture. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Transfer the creamy colcannon mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Top generously with the crispy leeks and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and chopped chives or parsley if desired.

Notes

Warm the milk or cream before adding to the potatoes to keep the mash smooth and silky. Avoid overmixing to maintain a fluffy texture. Fry leeks carefully to avoid burning and add crispy texture. For dairy-free options, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: colcannon, mashed potatoes, kale butter, crispy leeks, comfort food, easy side dish, creamy potatoes