Creamy Irish Champ Recipe – Comforting Mashed Potatoes with Onions

If you love mashed potatoes (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), then you’re going to fall in love with Irish Champ.

This traditional Irish dish is everything comfort food should be: rich, creamy, buttery mashed potatoes swirled with sweet, mild green onions (also known as scallions).

It’s simple, satisfying, and the perfect side dish for everything from hearty stews to roasted meats—or just on its own with a knob of butter melting in the middle. 🍀

It’s often served during colder months or with Irish meals like lamb, corned beef, or sausages, but really, Champ is welcome on the table year-round. And the best part? It’s super easy to make with just a few pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Irish Champ Recipe

🥔 Creamy and rich, thanks to butter and milk
🧅 Sweet and savory, with mild green onion flavor
🍽️ Perfect comfort food, great for any meal
⏱️ Simple and quick, ready in about 30 minutes
🍀 Traditional Irish recipe, with a homestyle feel

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4–5 green onions (scallions), finely chopped
• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for serving
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Irish Champ

🥔 Place the peeled, chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat.

🔥 Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot to steam dry for a minute or two.

🥛 While the potatoes cook, heat the milk and chopped green onions together in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until warm and fragrant. Don’t let it boil—just gently infuse the milk with onion flavor.

🧈 Mash the potatoes with butter until smooth (or as chunky as you like). Slowly pour in the warm milk and green onion mixture, stirring until the potatoes are creamy and well combined.

🧂 Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot with an extra pat of butter melting in the center of each serving for that traditional touch.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

🧄 Add a clove of roasted or sautéed garlic for extra depth
🧀 Stir in a handful of grated white cheddar for a cheesy twist
🥬 Use leeks or a mix of leeks and scallions for a richer onion flavor
🌿 Top with fresh chives or parsley for a herby finish

Tips for the Creamiest Champ

✔ Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russets for the fluffiest texture
✔ Warm the milk and butter before adding—cold liquids can make potatoes gluey
✔ Mash by hand or with a potato ricer for best texture—avoid a food processor
✔ Make a well in the center of each serving and place a pat of butter for that authentic Irish presentation

Storage and Reheating

📦 Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
🔥 Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the texture
❄️ Freeze isn’t recommended, as potatoes can become grainy

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Irish Champ is comfort food at its best—simple, rustic, and soul-satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you get a side dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect alongside any main.

Whether you’re making it for St. Patrick’s Day, a Sunday roast, or just need a bowl of warm mashed potato goodness, this Irish classic is sure to become a favorite. 🥔🧈💚