Bangers and Colcannon with Guinness Onion Gravy Recipe

If you are craving a comforting traditional Irish meal that combines rich flavors and hearty textures, then the Bangers and Colcannon with Guinness Onion Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish pairs succulent sausages with creamy mashed potatoes mixed with tender cabbage and green onions, all smothered in a deeply savory Guinness-infused onion gravy. Every element works together beautifully, delivering a plate that feels like a warm, satisfying hug in food form. Whether you’re gathering for a casual family dinner or want to impress friends with something truly special, this recipe promises to bring joy to your table and a smile to everyone’s face.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple but carefully chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the creamy potatoes and crunchy cabbage to smoky sausages and the rich Guinness onion gravy, these components come together to create layers of texture and flavor you’ll adore.

• Potatoes (1 lb, peeled and diced): The creamy base of the colcannon, they mash beautifully and soak up all the flavors.
• Beef or turkey sausage (½ cup, finely chopped): Added early to infuse the colcannon with a wonderful meaty note and added texture.
• Butter (1 tbsp): Brings richness and helps soften the cabbage while creating a luscious mash.
• Cabbage (¼ small head, thinly sliced): Adds color, crunch, and traditional Irish flair to the dish.
• Green onions (4, sliced): Offers a gentle onion bite and fresh pop of color.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning at every stage to balance flavors perfectly.
• Sour cream (1 tbsp): Gives the colcannon tang and extra creaminess.
• Milk (as needed): For adjusting the mash’s consistency to silky perfection.
• Sausages (1 lb, Irish or English-style): The star bangers bringing smoky, juicy notes to the plate.
• Oil (1 tbsp): For frying the sausages until they get that irresistible golden brown crust.
• Onion (1 large, sliced): Caramelized for the gravy’s deep, sweet flavor and dark color.
• Garlic (1 clove, chopped): Adds a fragrant warmth to the gravy base.
• Fresh thyme (1 tsp, chopped): Brings subtle herbaceous notes that brighten the rich gravy.
• Flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the gravy while cooking out any raw taste.
• Beef or vegetable broth (1 cup): Provides the savory liquid base for the onion gravy.
• Mustard (2 tbsp): Lends a sharp, tangy bite that balances the sweetness.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Boosts umami and adds complexity.
• Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Rounds out the glaze with a hint of caramel sweetness.

How to Make Bangers and Colcannon with Guinness Onion Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by placing the diced potatoes in a pot and covering them with cold water. Bring to a boil and let them cook until tender when pierced with a fork—usually about 20–30 minutes. This step ensures your base for the colcannon mash will be perfectly creamy and soft.

Step 2: Crisp the Chopped Sausage

While the potatoes cook, sauté the finely chopped sausage in a pan over medium heat until it turns golden and crispy, about 3 to 5 minutes. This little burst of savory sausage adds a delightful texture and richness that elevates the colcannon far beyond simple mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage in Butter

Add the butter to the pan with the cooked sausage, season with salt and pepper, and wait until the butter foams—this only takes about a minute. Then stir in the thinly sliced cabbage and cook until it softens beautifully, about 10 minutes. This slow cooking mellows the cabbage, making it sweet and tender.

Step 4: Add Green Onions and Season

Next, toss in the sliced green onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, so their vibrant freshness melds with the cabbage. Season with a touch more salt and pepper, then set the mixture aside to join the mashed potatoes shortly.

Step 5: Mash Potatoes and Mix

Drain your potatoes well, then mash them until smooth. Stir in the cabbage and chopped sausage mixture, followed by sour cream and enough milk to achieve a creamy, fluffy consistency. This combination creates the beloved Irish colcannon that is comfort food at its finest.

Step 6: Cook the Sausages

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the full sausages and cook until they have a golden-brown crust and are cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even color. These bangers will be the star protein that pairs perfectly with the mash and gravy.

Step 7: Caramelize Onions for the Gravy

Using the same pan, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat slowly until golden and caramelized for about 10 minutes. This sweet and rich step forms the soul of the Guinness onion gravy.

Step 8: Add Garlic and Thyme

Stir in the chopped garlic and thyme and cook for another minute until fragrant, infusing the gravy with herbs and savory notes.

Step 9: Make the Gravy Base

Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture, stirring constantly, and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste and to start thickening the gravy.

Step 10: Pour Broth and Add Flavorings

Slowly pour in the beef or vegetable broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Then add mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This luscious sauce ties the whole dish together with its rich and robust flavors.

Step 11: Assemble the Dish

Spoon a generous helping of the colcannon onto each plate. Place the cooked bangers on top, then ladle the Guinness onion gravy over the sausages. Serve piping hot for the ultimate cozy, satisfying meal.

How to Serve Bangers and Colcannon with Guinness Onion Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives makes a lovely finishing touch, adding a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

Though this meal is hearty on its own, you can serve it alongside some steamed green beans or roasted root vegetables for added crunch and variety. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette also helps balance the heartiness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the colcannon in a large bowl with the bangers nestled on top and the gravy poured tableside. Alternatively, scoop the components into an oven-safe dish, layer with cheese, and bake briefly for a comforting casserole-style version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The components keep well for up to 3 days, with the flavors often deepening after a day.

Freezing

You can freeze the bangers and colcannon separately for best texture preservation, packaged in freezer-safe containers or bags. They will keep well for up to 2 months. The gravy freezes well too; just thaw completely before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the colcannon to bring back its creamy texture. Warm the sausages and gravy slowly to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Irish or English-style sausages work best for authenticity, any flavorful pork or beef sausages will do. Just choose ones with good seasoning to complement the colcannon and gravy.

Is colcannon gluten-free?

Traditional colcannon is naturally gluten-free as it mainly consists of potatoes, cabbage, and green onions, but if making this recipe gluten-free, make sure to use gluten-free sausages and substitute regular flour in the gravy with a gluten-free alternative.

What can I use instead of Guinness for the onion gravy?

If you don’t have Guinness on hand, a dark beer or even beef broth with a touch of molasses or balsamic vinegar can mimic the gravy’s depth and sweetness nicely.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can swap the sausages for vegetarian or plant-based versions and use vegetable broth for the gravy. The colcannon can be made without any sausage, or you can add mushrooms for some umami richness.

How do I get perfect caramelized onions?

Patience is key! Cook the onions slowly over medium or medium-low heat with occasional stirring. This slow cooking draws out their natural sugars and results in a beautifully rich, sweet flavor perfect for gravy.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about making and enjoying this Bangers and Colcannon with Guinness Onion Gravy Recipe. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and homey goodness. Once you try it, you’ll find it becomes a beloved go-to recipe for cozy evenings and special gatherings alike. So gather your ingredients and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aromas of Irish comfort food that’s sure to please every palate!

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