25 Classic Irish Side Dishes That Pair With Anything

Introduction

Irish side dishes have a way of bringing comfort, warmth, and simple charm to any meal. Whether you’re planning a holiday spread, a weeknight dinner, or a traditional feast, these classics are hearty, flavorful, and easy to serve with almost anything. Here are 25 timeless favorites that bring cozy Irish cooking right to your table.

1 Colcannon

Colcannon is one of the most beloved Irish potato dishes, known for its ultra-creamy texture and gentle pops of flavor from cabbage and scallions. It brings together comfort, tradition, and richness in every spoonful, making it a perfect match for meats, stews, or a simple meal on its own. Its buttery finish gives it that dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth feel people adore.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
  
• 4 scallions, sliced
  
• 4 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 cup milk
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Boil potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes.
   
2. In a skillet, sauté cabbage in 1 tbsp butter until soft.
   
3. Mash potatoes with remaining butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
   
4. Stir in cabbage and scallions until fully blended.
   
5. Serve warm with an extra pat of butter on top.
   

How to Serve It
Colcannon is wonderful beside roasted meats, sausages, or grilled chicken. Add a swirl of butter right before serving for extra richness. Garnish with chopped scallions for color. It’s great with gravy, too. For a seasonal touch, mix in kale in winter or extra herbs in spring.

2 Champ

Champ is a simple but comforting Irish favorite, blending creamy mashed potatoes with the gentle bite of scallions. The dish feels warm and homestyle, and its smooth consistency makes it one of the most versatile sides you can bring to the table. It pairs beautifully with nearly any protein and brings a cozy touch to an everyday meal.

Ingredients

• 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
  
• 1/2 cup warm milk
  
• 4 tbsp butter
  
• 1 cup sliced scallions
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender.
   
2. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
   
3. Fold in scallions until evenly mixed.
   
4. Adjust seasoning to taste.
   
5. Serve hot with extra scallions.
   

How to Serve It
Champ works well with roasted lamb, grilled fish, or classic Irish sausages. Add butter to the center of each serving for a traditional presentation. Sprinkle flaky salt for extra texture. It also pairs nicely with stews or slow-cooked dishes. Serve warm to enjoy its full creaminess.

3 Irish Fried Cabbage

This fried cabbage dish is full of earthy sweetness and buttery flavor, making it a staple Irish side known for its simplicity and heartiness. The browned edges give it a lightly crisp bite, while the tender interior brings wonderful balance to heavier mains. It’s quick, rustic, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 head green cabbage, sliced
  
• 4 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 onion, sliced
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a skillet and sauté onions until soft.
   
2. Add cabbage and cook until golden and tender, about 12–15 minutes.
   
3. Season with salt and pepper.
   
4. Stir occasionally for even browning.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Pair with corned beef, pork chops, or roasted chicken. Add fresh parsley for color. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness. For a heartier version, add crispy bacon. It’s especially good with mashed potatoes or soda bread.

4 Boxty

Boxty is an iconic Irish potato pancake with a tender inside and a beautifully crisp exterior. The combination of grated raw potatoes and mashed potatoes gives it a distinctly hearty feel that makes each bite warm and comforting. It’s a beloved side for both breakfast and dinner dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup grated raw potatoes
  
• 1 cup mashed potatoes
  
• 1 cup flour
  
• 1 cup milk
  
• 1 egg
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  

Instructions

1. Mix grated potatoes, mashed potatoes, flour, milk, egg, and salt into a smooth batter.
   
2. Heat butter in a pan.
   
3. Spoon batter into small rounds.
   
4. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
   
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve alongside eggs, sausages, roasted meats, or smoked fish. Add chives or parsley for a fresh touch. They also pair well with sour cream or herb butter. For a holiday meal, stack them with warm gravy. Serve immediately for the best crispness.

5 Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is cherished for its hearty texture and rustic charm. The slightly tangy flavor from buttermilk and the dense crumb make it a perfect companion to soups, stews, and roasted dishes. It’s quick to make and fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma.

Ingredients

• 4 cups flour
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
   
2. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
   
3. Stir in buttermilk to form a soft dough.
   
4. Shape into a round loaf and score a cross on top.
   
5. Bake 35–40 minutes until golden.
   

How to Serve It
Slice warm and spread with butter or honey. Ideal with stews or hearty meats. Toast leftovers for breakfast. Add raisins for a sweeter version. Serve with soups on cold days for extra comfort.

6 Buttered Parsnips

Buttered parsnips bring natural sweetness and a velvety texture to any Irish meal. They roast beautifully and hold flavors well, making them a simple yet comforting choice for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Their earthy aroma adds warmth to any table.

Ingredients

• 4 parsnips, peeled and sliced
  
• 3 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Boil parsnips until tender, about 10 minutes.
   
2. Drain and toss with butter, salt, and pepper.
   
3. Stir until fully coated.
   
4. Keep warm until serving.
   
5. Add herbs if desired.
   

How to Serve It
Serve with roast beef, lamb, or baked chicken. Garnish with parsley or thyme. Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness. Works well as part of a holiday spread. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

7 Irish Potato Stuffing

Irish potato stuffing is rich, hearty, and full of savory flavors that make it a comforting side for poultry and holiday meals. The mix of potatoes, onions, and herbs creates a warm aroma and a soft, homey texture. It’s a classic that always feels satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 potatoes, mashed
  
• 1 onion, diced
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1 tsp thyme
  
• 1 tsp parsley
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Sauté onions in butter until soft.
   
3. Mix with mashed potatoes and herbs.
   
4. Spread in a greased dish and bake 20 minutes.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Perfect with turkey, chicken, or roasted vegetables. Top with extra herbs before serving. Add gravy for a richer experience. Serve at gatherings or holiday meals. Works well as part of a larger side-dish spread.

8 Dublin Coddle Potatoes

These tender simmered potatoes are inspired by the flavors of classic Dublin coddle, bringing together onions, broth, and simple seasonings for a comforting side dish. The potatoes soak up savory flavor as they cook, resulting in a soft, warm bite that feels perfect with hearty meals. This dish is wonderfully rustic and easy to pair with almost any Irish main.

Ingredients

• 5 potatoes, sliced
  
• 1 onion, sliced
  
• 2 cups broth
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a pot and cook onions until soft.
   
2. Add potatoes, broth, salt, and pepper.
   
3. Simmer 20–25 minutes until potatoes soften.
   
4. Stir gently to avoid breaking slices.
   
5. Serve warm with broth spooned over top.
   

How to Serve It
Serve beside sausages, roasted meats, or stews. Add parsley for color. Spoon extra broth over the potatoes for more richness. Works well in cold weather meals. Serve straight from the pot to keep it warm and comforting.

9 Irish Mashed Turnips

Mashed turnips bring a gentle sweetness and smooth texture that pairs beautifully with Irish comfort foods. Their earthy flavor creates a pleasant contrast to richer meats and sauces, making them a great alternative or addition to mashed potatoes. Their warm aroma and buttery finish add a cozy feel to any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 turnips, peeled and cubed
  
• 3 tbsp butter
  
• 1/3 cup milk
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Boil turnips 15–20 minutes until soft.
   
2. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
   
3. Add salt and pepper.
   
4. Mix until smooth.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Great with roasted lamb, chicken, or grilled fish. Add herbs like chives for a nice finish. Serve with gravy for a heartier plate. Works well as part of a Sunday dinner. Always serve warm for the creamiest texture.

10 Honey-Glazed Carrots

These carrots are tender, slightly sweet, and wonderfully fragrant. The glaze adds a gentle caramel note that makes them appealing to both kids and adults. They bring beautiful color to the plate and pair effortlessly with nearly any Irish entrée. This dish is simple yet full of cozy flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced carrots
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 2 tbsp honey
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Boil carrots for 8 minutes until tender.
   
2. Melt butter and honey in a skillet.
   
3. Add carrots and cook 5 minutes.
   
4. Season with salt and pepper.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve with chicken, pork, or beef dishes. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Works beautifully for holiday meals. Perfect alongside mashed potatoes. Serve warm for the best glaze texture.

11 Potato Farls

Potato farls are a classic Irish griddle bread made from mashed potatoes, flour, and butter. They’re soft inside, crispy on the edges, and incredibly satisfying. Their rustic flavor blends well with breakfast plates or hearty dinners, making them an all-day staple in Irish homes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
  
• 1 cup flour
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Mix mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and salt into dough.
   
2. Roll into a circle and cut into four wedges.
   
3. Cook on a hot griddle 3–4 minutes per side.
   
4. Brown until crisp.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Great with eggs, bacon, or sausages. Serve with butter or jam. Pair with soups for a cozy touch. Add herbs on top for flavor. Best eaten fresh off the griddle.

12 Creamed Leeks

Creamed leeks are delicate, smooth, and full of mellow onion flavor. They bring a luxurious texture that pairs wonderfully with potato-focused dishes or roasted meats. The cream sauce blends perfectly with the sweetness of the leeks, making this side both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

• 3 large leeks, sliced
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 cup cream
  
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Sauté leeks in butter until soft.
   
2. Stir in cream and nutmeg.
   
3. Simmer 5 minutes.
   
4. Add salt and pepper.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve with roasted chicken, ham, or fish. Add fresh herbs for brightness. Wonderful with mashed potatoes or soda bread. Serve in small dishes for individual portions. Best enjoyed warm for full creaminess.

13 Irish Roast Potatoes

Irish roast potatoes are famous for their extra-crispy exterior and fluffy middle. The secret is parboiling before roasting, giving them that irresistible crunch that makes them disappear quickly from the table. They’re a crowd favorite for holidays or weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• 6 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  
• 3 tbsp oil or duck fat
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
   
2. Boil potatoes 8 minutes. Drain and shake to roughen edges.
   
3. Toss in oil, salt, and pepper.
   
4. Roast 40 minutes, flipping halfway.
   
5. Serve hot.
   

How to Serve It
Perfect with beef, lamb, or chicken. Add rosemary for aroma. Serve fresh from the oven for maximum crispness. Great with gravy or herb butter. Works beautifully for special dinners.

14 Braised Red Cabbage

Braised red cabbage offers sweet, tangy, and earthy notes that make it a versatile side dish. Its soft texture and bold color brighten the plate, especially when served with roasted meats. This dish holds heat well, making it perfect for gatherings and long meals.

Ingredients

• 1 head red cabbage, sliced
  
• 1 apple, grated
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 2 tbsp vinegar
  
• 1 tbsp sugar
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a pot.
   
2. Add cabbage and apple.
   
3. Stir in vinegar, sugar, and salt.
   
4. Cover and simmer 25–30 minutes.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Pairs well with pork, lamb, or sausages. Add cloves or cinnamon for a seasonal touch. Garnish with parsley. Works well at holiday meals. Serve warm for full flavor.

15 Garlic Butter Green Beans

These green beans are crisp-tender and full of buttery, garlicky flavor. They bring a refreshing bite to heavier Irish meals and add welcome color to the table. Simple, quick, and delicious, they’re a reliable go-to side dish year-round.

Ingredients

• 1 lb green beans, trimmed
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Boil green beans 4–5 minutes.
   
2. Melt butter and cook garlic 1 minute.
   
3. Toss beans in garlic butter.
   
4. Add salt and pepper.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve alongside meats or fish. Add lemon zest for brightness. Sprinkle toasted almonds for crunch. Great for springtime meals. Serve warm to keep texture crisp.

16 Irish Baked Beans

These baked beans are hearty, savory, and lightly sweet, making them a comforting side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re thicker and richer than American-style beans, with a warm depth of flavor that suits almost any Irish plate. They reheat well and are perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

• 2 cans navy beans
  
• 1 cup tomato sauce
  
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
  
• 1 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   
2. Mix all ingredients in a baking dish.
   
3. Bake 30 minutes.
   
4. Stir halfway through.
   
5. Serve hot.
   

How to Serve It
Great with sausages, eggs, or grilled meats. Add parsley on top. Serve with soda bread to soak up sauce. Keep warm during breakfast spreads. Works well for potlucks too.

17 Irish Stuffed Mushrooms

These stuffed mushrooms bring rich, savory flavor and a soft, juicy texture. The filling is warm, comforting, and full of herbs, making them a lovely side for Irish-inspired meals. They’re easy enough for weeknights but special enough for gatherings.

Ingredients

• 12 large mushrooms
  
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1/4 cup cheese
  
• 1 tbsp parsley
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Remove stems and fill caps with mixture of breadcrumbs, butter, cheese, parsley, and salt.
   
3. Arrange on a baking sheet.
   
4. Bake 18–20 minutes.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Pair with roasted meats or stews. Garnish with extra parsley. Add lemon zest for brightness. Serve as a starter or side dish. Works especially well with holiday menus.

18 Peas and Mint

This refreshing side dish adds a sweet, vibrant touch to any Irish meal. The mint enhances the natural flavor of the peas, making the dish light yet satisfying. It’s especially good during spring and summer when meals call for something bright.

Ingredients

• 2 cups peas
  
• 1 tbsp butter
  
• 2 tbsp chopped mint
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Boil peas 3 minutes.
   
2. Drain and toss with butter.
   
3. Stir in mint and salt.
   
4. Mix gently.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve beside fish, chicken, or lamb. Add lemon zest for a citrus touch. Great for spring feasts. Works well with roasted potatoes. Serve immediately to keep peas bright and plump.

19 Irish Gravy

Irish gravy is known for its deep, savory flavor and smooth texture. It complements nearly every classic Irish side, especially potato dishes. Its warm aroma brings together any comfort-focused meal, turning even simple meats into something cozy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 2 tbsp flour
  
• 2 cups broth
  
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
  
• 1/2 tsp pepper
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Melt butter and whisk in flour.
   
2. Cook 1 minute to form a roux.
   
3. Add broth slowly.
   
4. Stir until thickened.
   
5. Season and serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve over potatoes, meats, or vegetable sides. Add herbs to enhance aroma. Keep warm in a small pot. Works beautifully for Sunday dinners. Ideal for dipping soda bread too.

20 Irish Oatmeal Bread

This wholesome bread is soft, slightly nutty, and perfect for serving with soups or stews. The oats give it a comforting texture that pairs well with savory dishes or simple butter spreads. It slices beautifully and brings a rustic charm to any table.

Ingredients

• 3 cups flour
  
• 1 cup oats
  
• 1 tbsp sugar
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
  

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
   
2. Mix dry ingredients.
   
3. Stir in buttermilk to form dough.
   
4. Shape into loaf.
   
5. Bake 35 minutes.
   

How to Serve It
Serve warm with butter or jams. Pair with soups or stews. Great for breakfast with eggs. Add honey for sweetness. Toast slices for crunchy texture.

21 Irish Pan Fried Bread Fadge

Fadge is a potato-based bread that fries up beautifully in a pan, giving it a crisp exterior and pillowy center. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for pairing with meaty dishes or morning plates. It brings a nostalgic, home-cooked feel to any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
  
• 1 cup flour
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Mix ingredients into dough.
   
2. Shape into rounds.
   
3. Fry in butter 3–4 minutes per side.
   
4. Brown evenly.
   
5. Serve hot.
   

How to Serve It
Great with eggs, bacon, or roasted meats. Add herbs or garlic butter. Serve warm for best texture. Works well as a base for open-faced sandwiches. A wonderful choice for cozy meals.

22 Irish Carrot and Parsnip Mash

This mash blends the sweetness of carrots with the earthy flavor of parsnips, creating a colorful and flavorful side. Its smooth texture makes it great with hearty mains, and the natural sweetness appeals to all ages. It’s an easy way to add warmth and color to your table.

Ingredients

• 3 carrots, chopped
  
• 3 parsnips, chopped
  
• 3 tbsp butter
  
• 1/3 cup milk
  
• 1 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Boil carrots and parsnips 15 minutes.
   
2. Drain and mash with butter and milk.
   
3. Add salt.
   
4. Mix until smooth.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve with chicken or lamb. Add herbs like thyme or parsley. Works well for holiday meals. Add a little honey for more sweetness. Serve warm with a pat of butter.

23 Creamy Irish Corn

This creamy corn dish is rich, smooth, and comforting. It offers a warm sweetness that pairs beautifully with hearty Irish meats and breads. The sauce clings to each kernel, making every bite soothing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 3 cups corn
  
• 1/2 cup cream
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1/2 tsp salt
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  

Instructions

1. Heat butter in a pan.
   
2. Add corn and cook 3 minutes.
   
3. Stir in cream.
   
4. Season and simmer 5 minutes.
   
5. Serve hot.
   

How to Serve It
Pair with roast chicken or beef. Add herbs for color. Mix in scallions for extra flavor. Serve in small bowls for gatherings. Best enjoyed warm for full creaminess.

24 Irish Apple Sauce

Irish apple sauce is slightly chunky, lightly sweet, and perfect with savory dishes like pork or sausages. It brings a fresh, fruity balance to heavier meals and can be prepared quickly with simple ingredients. Its aroma fills the kitchen with comforting notes.

Ingredients

• 4 apples, chopped
  
• 1/2 cup water
  
• 2 tbsp sugar
  
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
   
2. Simmer 15 minutes.
   
3. Mash to desired texture.
   
4. Cook 2 more minutes.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve with pork or sausages. Add more cinnamon for warmth. Enjoy warm or chilled. Great spooned over potato dishes. Works wonderfully for holiday meals.

25 Irish Herb Butter Potatoes

These potatoes are buttery, fragrant, and incredibly easy to prepare. Fresh herbs bring brightness to each bite, while the tender potato texture makes the dish comforting and familiar. It’s a reliable side for both simple dinners and large gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs baby potatoes
  
• 3 tbsp butter
  
• 1 tbsp parsley
  
• 1 tbsp chives
  
• 1 tsp salt
  

Instructions

1. Boil potatoes 15 minutes.
   
2. Drain and toss with butter and herbs.
   
3. Add salt.
   
4. Stir gently to coat.
   
5. Serve warm.
   

How to Serve It
Serve with stews, grilled meats, or fish. Add extra herbs for color. Drizzle with garlic butter for more flavor. Works great for holiday spreads. Serve warm for best texture.

Conclusion

These classic Irish side dishes bring warmth, comfort, and timeless flavors to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or cooking a simple dinner at home, each recipe adds something special to the table. Feel free to save, share, or try a few new favorites—there’s always room for another cozy dish in your kitchen.