21 Savory St. Patrick’s Day Recipes to Balance Out the Sweet Treats

When you think of St. Patrick's Day, you might think of sweet treats like shamrock cookies and green cake. But there's more to this holiday than just desserts! You can also enjoy delicious savory dishes like hearty Irish stews and colcannon, which are rich and comforting.

These savory recipes are perfect for balancing out the sweetness of the holiday treats. They're also great for serving to your friends and family on St. Patrick's Day. Let's explore some of these tasty dishes and find the perfect ones to add to your celebration!

1. Hearty Irish Stew Recipes

Traditional Irish stew made with lamb and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lamb or beef, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup lamb or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the carrots and potatoes, broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the meat and vegetables are tender, about 1 1/2 hours.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.

2. Savory Colcannon Dish Ideas

Traditional Irish colcannon dish made with mashed potatoes and kale.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes
• 1 head of kale
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and mash with butter and milk.
3. Chop the kale and onion, and sauté in a pan until softened.
4. Combine the mashed potatoes with the kale and onion mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.

3. St. Patrick's Day Soup Options

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a delicious Irish Potato Soup.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth.
7. Stir in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

4. Delicious Boxty Recipes

Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake dish.

Ingredients

• 2 large potatoes
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Peel and grate the potatoes, then squeeze out excess moisture.
2. Finely chop the onion and garlic, then sauté until softened.
3. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, sautéed onion and garlic, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg, then add to the potato mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
6. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the potato mixture into the pan and flatten slightly.
7. Cook the boxty for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot with your choice of toppings, such as sour cream or bacon.

5. Traditional Irish Soda Bread

Traditional Irish Soda Bread is a classic recipe perfect for St. Patrick's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Make a well in the center and add the buttermilk, egg, and sugar.
5. Mix the dough until it comes together in a shaggy mass.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently for 1-2 minutes.
7. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Cut a cross in the top of the loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

6. Flavorful Shepherd's Pie Variations

Hearty shepherd's pie filled with tender meat and crispy crust.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture.
7. Dot top of potatoes with butter and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and cheese is melted.
9. Serve hot and enjoy.

7. Roasted Vegetable Side Dishes

Delicious roasted vegetables perfect for St. Patrick's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 large red potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Toss the vegetables to coat evenly with the oil and seasonings.
5. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

8. Authentic Irish Stew Recipes

Hearty Irish stew filled with tender lamb and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lamb shoulder, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 large celery stalk, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups lamb broth
• 1 cup Guinness stout

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add lamb cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot.
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Add lamb broth and Guinness stout to the pot.
7. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the lamb is tender, about 1 1/2 hours.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

9. Tasty Corned Beef Recipes

Deus corneliciod beef recipes perfect for St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 pound corned beef brisket
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon pickling spice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, brown sugar, mustard seeds, and pickling spice.
3. Place the corned beef brisket in the Dutch oven, fat side up.
4. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise the corned beef for 3-4 hours, or until it is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Remove the corned beef from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
7. Serve the sliced corned beef with the braising liquid spooned over the top.

10. Cabbage and Caraway Seed Salads

A rejuvenating side dish featuring sautéed cabbage and caraway seeds.

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized cabbage, shredded
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Sauté the shredded cabbage in olive oil over medium heat until it's slightly caramelized.
2. Add caraway seeds to the cabbage and stir well to combine.
3. Season with salt,ck pep blaper, and apple cier vinedgar.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped parsley and serve warm.

11. Irish Scone Recipes

Traditional Irish scones, perfect for St. Patrick's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and beaten egg.
5. Pour the cream mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
7. Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch thick.
8. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out scones.
9. Gather the scraps, re-form the dough, and cut out additional scones.
10. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

12. Braised Short Ribs With Guinness

Tender short ribs slow-cooked in rich Guinness stout.

Ingredients

• 4 short ribs
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup Guinness stout
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and sear the short ribs until browned on all sides.
4. Remove the short ribs and set them aside.
5. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it's softened and lightly browned.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add the Guinness stout, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, carrots, and potatoes to the pot.
8. Return the short ribs to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
9. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
10. Braise the short ribs for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
11. Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly.
12. Serve the short ribs with the braising liquid spooned over the top.

13. Pan-Seared Salmon With Irish Flair

Pan-Seared Salmon With Irish Flair is a delicious twist on traditional salmon.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon Irish whiskey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up, and sear for 2-3 minutes.
6. Flip the salmon over and sear for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes.
8. While the salmon is cooking, mix the parsley, whiskey, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
9. Remove the salmon from the oven and brush the whiskey mixture on top of each fillet.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy.

14. Whiskey Glazed Carrot Recipes

Whiskey glazed carrots bring a sweet and savory twist to traditional St. Patrick's Day dishes.

Ingredients

• 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons whiskey
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together whiskey, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss to coat with the glaze.
4. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove the carrots from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh thyme, if desired.
7. Serve the whiskey glazed carrots hot, garnished with additional thyme if needed.

15. Emerald Isle Dip Recipes

Delicious Emerald Isle Dip perfect for St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) container of cream cheese
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup of chopped scallions
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
3. Mix well until the ingredients are smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the parsley, scallions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill.
7. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.

16. St. Patrick's Day Sliders

Mini beef burgers served on toasted buns with Irish flair.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 small buns
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 4 tomato slices
• 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal parts and shape into patties.
3. Season the patties with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble the sliders with a cooked patty, cheese, scallions, lettuce, tomato, and dressing on each bun.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy.

17. Traditional Irish Potato Pancakes

Traditional Irish Potato Pancakes, also known as boxty, are a delicious side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 onion, grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the potato mixture using a cheesecloth or a clean dish towel.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
4. Add the flour mixture to the potato mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Add the beaten egg to the potato mixture and stir until the mixture forms a thick batter.
6. Heat a large frying pan with about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
7. Using a tablespoon, drop the potato batter into the hot oil and flatten slightly with a spatula.
8. Cook the pancakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove the pancakes from the oil and drain on paper towels.
10. Serve the boxty hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream or applesauce.

18. Grilled Asparagus With Irish Cheese

Grilled asparagus paired with Irish cheese makes a delicious side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus
• 1/2 cup Irish cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Brush the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the asparagus for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender.
5. Remove the asparagus from the grill and top with crumbled Irish cheese.
6. Drizzle with lemon juice and serve immediately.

19. Shamrock Shaped Cheese and Charcuterie

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a festive Shamrock Shaped Cheese and Charcuterie board.

Ingredients

• 1 cup assorted cured meats
• 1 cup assorted cheeses
• 1 cup crackers
• 1 cup garnishes
• 1 shamrock-shaped cookie cutter

Instructions

1. Arrange the cured meats and cheeses on a large cutting board or platter.
2. Use the shamrock-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cheese and meat slices.
3. Arrange the cut-out shapes on the board in a pattern resembling a shamrock.
4. Add crackers and garnishes around the shamrock shape.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy.

20. Irish Cheddar and Chive Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Irish Cheddar and Chive Mashed Potatoes, a classic dish.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes
• 1/4 cup Irish cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher until smooth.
4. Stir in the milk, garlic, and chives until well combined.
5. Add the Irish cheddar cheese and mash until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are creamy.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve the mashed potatoes hot, garnished with additional chives if desired.

21. Guinness Beef Stew With Crusty Bread

Hearty Guinness beef stew served with crusty bread.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Guinness stout
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 loaf crusty bread

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the Guinness stout, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours.
6. Add the carrots and potatoes and continue to simmer, covered, for another 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
8. Slice the crusty bread and place on a baking sheet.
9. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
10. Serve the stew hot with the crusty bread on the side.

Conclusion

You'll savor the flavors of Ireland with these 21 savory recipes, imagining tender corned beef, fluffy colcannon, and crusty Irish soda bread filling your St. Patrick's Day table. Rich aromas of Guinness beef stew and roasted carrots will transport you to the Emerald Isle, making your celebration a deliciously authentic experience.