Name: Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 6 medium starchy potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet); 50 ml whole milk (1/4 cup); 6-8 green onions, green parts only, sliced; 100 g unsalted butter (1/2 cup); Salt and white pepper to taste

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes with a subtle kick of fresh onion, isn’t there? That’s exactly what the Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe delivers — a buttery, smooth mash laced with tender green onions that’s as cozy as it is flavorful.

A large white pot filled with creamy mashed potatoes that are smooth and slightly fluffy in texture, showing soft swirls and peaks. The mashed potatoes have small green pieces of chopped scallions mixed in, adding flecks of color. There are pools of melted golden butter spread unevenly on the surface, glistening and blending into the potatoes. Freshly ground black pepper is sprinkled lightly across the top. A dark wooden spoon is scooping up a portion from the center, showing the thick, soft texture of the mash. The pot is set on a white marbled surface with small bowls of green onions and sauce nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I remember the first time I made this traditional Irish Champ recipe — the aroma of onions steeped in warm milk filling the kitchen, the creamy texture of the mash that just melts in your mouth. It quickly became one of my go-to sides for everything from humble weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.

Simple Comfort Food: Classic Irish mashed potatoes elevated with the fresh zing of green onions.
Easy to Make: Only a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside roasts, stews, or even with a vegetarian main.
Expert Texture: Using starchy potatoes ensures that light, fluffy mash you crave.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Choosing the right ingredients is key to making this mash truly shine. I always opt for starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet — they fluff up beautifully without turning gluey. And don’t skimp on fresh green onions — they add that signature gentle onion flavor infused in the milk.

Flat lay of six medium Yukon Gold potatoes with pale golden skin, a small white ceramic bowl of whole milk infused with bright green sliced green onion tops, a neatly stacked pile of fresh green onion tops, a small white ceramic bowl filled with rich, pale yellow unsalted butter chunks, and a couple of whole uncracked brown eggs placed harmoniously, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Medium starchy potatoes: These give you the fluffy, creamy texture that’s essential.
Whole milk: Warms gently with the green onions to infuse subtle flavor.
Green onions (green parts only): Tender and mild, perfect for steeping in warm milk.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the mash.
Salt and white pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors without overwhelming.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe is how easy it is to tailor to your taste buds and dietary needs. Whether you're after a richer indulgence or a lighter option, a few tweaks can make this classic dish truly your own.

Variation: For an extra luxurious twist, I've sometimes swapped whole milk for half-and-half to give the potatoes a creamier, more decadent texture without overwhelming the fresh onion flavor.
Dairy-Free: If you need a dairy-free version, using plant-based butter and a creamy milk alternative like oat or almond milk works beautifully while still preserving that comforting creaminess.
Herbal Touch: In place of green onions, chives offer a milder onion essence that pairs wonderfully if you prefer something subtler but still delightful.
Potato Choice: I always recommend sticking to starchy or floury potatoes (like Yukon Gold or Russets) because they give you that perfect fluffy texture without turning gluey.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe

A white bowl is filled with creamy mashed potatoes, which have a soft, smooth texture. In the center, there is a melting square of light yellow butter surrounded by a pool of shiny melted butter. Thin slices of green onion are scattered over the mashed potatoes, adding bright green color. The surface of the mashed potatoes shows some small black pepper specks. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Gently Infuse the Milk with Green Onions

Start by adding the sliced green parts of 6-8 green onions into 50 ml (¼ cup) of whole milk in a small saucepan. Warm this mixture over low heat just until it reaches a gentle boil. Then remove it from the heat and let the green onions steep in the hot milk. This step is key—it infuses the milk with that tender, fresh onion flavor that makes this recipe special. While it’s steeping, you can get started on your potatoes.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes Until Perfectly Tender

Peel and quarter your 6 medium starchy potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best). Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Boil for about 15 minutes, or until a fork pierces the potatoes easily and they feel very tender. This ensures your mash will be silky and lump-free.

Step 3: Drain and Steam-Dry

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly. Return them to the hot pot and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes—this extra minute or two helps evaporate excess moisture so your mash isn’t watery. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in texture.

Step 4: Mash with Onion-Infused Milk

Pour the hot green onion-infused milk over the potatoes. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash everything together until smooth and creamy. Be gentle here—overworking can make the potatoes gluey, so mash just until combined and silky.

Step 5: Add Butter and Season to Taste

Stir in 100 g (½ cup) of unsalted butter until it’s fully melted and incorporated, bringing luscious richness to your mash. Finish by seasoning with salt and a pinch of white pepper to taste. Serve immediately, and if you like, top with extra sliced green onions for that fresh pop of color and flavor.

Top Tip

These handy tips will help you master the perfect Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe every time, ensuring that rich, silky texture and delicate onion flavor shine through.

Choose the Right Potato: From my experience, using starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet truly makes a difference in achieving that light, fluffy mash you crave.
Infuse with Patience: I found gently warming the green onions in milk without rushing preserves their subtle sweetness without bitterness—avoid boiling vigorously!
Steam Dry After Boiling: Letting your potatoes sit in the pot off the heat for 2-3 minutes removes excess moisture, preventing watery mash, which was a game-changer for me.
Don’t Overmix: I learned the hard way that overworking the potatoes makes them gluey; mash just enough to combine smoothly for that perfect creamy texture.

How to Serve Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe

A round silver pot sits on top of a light cream cloth on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot is a creamy light yellow liquid filled with small pieces of green leafy vegetables, creating a speckled pattern. A large wooden spoon with a smooth grain texture rests inside the pot, partially submerged in the mixture, facing upwards. The green leaves are evenly spread throughout the creamy layer, making a fresh and soft look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh sliced green onions on top add a lovely crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the mild onion flavor. A drizzle of melted butter or a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives also lifts this comforting dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe pairs perfectly with hearty Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, savory lamb stew, or a roast chicken. For a delicious twist, serve alongside sautéed greens or buttered carrots for a comforting, balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them great for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze these mashed potatoes by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or a small pat of butter to bring back the creamy consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent separation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular onions instead of green onions?

While regular onions have a stronger flavor, green onions provide a mild, fresh onion taste that's essential to the traditional Champ. If substituting, use finely chopped cooked onions sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Starchy or floury potatoes like Yukon Gold, Russet, Maris Piper, or King Edward yield the best fluffy, creamy texture ideal for this mashed potato recipe.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use plant-based butter and your favorite milk alternative in place of dairy to keep the dish creamy without compromising taste.

How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from becoming gluey?

Avoid overmixing or overworking the potatoes. Mash gently just until smooth and creamy to keep a light, fluffy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Irish Mashed Potatoes with Green Onions Recipe is more than just a side – it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving cozy comfort food, these mashed potatoes bring heart and tradition to your table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this simple yet satisfying dish as much as I do!