Get ready to wear green and indulge in a feast fit for a leprechaun! With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, we’ve gathered 20 quick and easy recipes to make your celebration even more festive. From sweet treats like Shamrock-shaped Sugar Cookies and Green Velvet Cupcakes to savory dishes like Corned Beef and Cabbage Stew and Irish Soda Bread with Raisins, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to add a little luck of the Irish to your daily meals, these recipes are sure to bring a smile to your face. So put on your best green attire and get cooking! In our next installment, we’ll dive deeper into each recipe and provide step-by-step instructions for making them.
Shamrock-shaped Sugar Cookies
Get ready to make a sweet St. Patrick’s Day treat with these adorable Shamrock-shaped sugar cookies!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Shamrock cookie cutter (approx. 2-3 inches in diameter)
– Green food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cookie size.
6. Roll out each portion of dough between parchment paper or waxed paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Use Shamrock cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Irish Soda Bread with Raisins
Experience the comfort of traditional Irish baking with this simple recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a 7×11-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, beating with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
5. Fold in beaten egg, sugar, and raisins.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until smooth.
7. Place dough into prepared pan or dish and shape to fit.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Corned Beef and Cabbage Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the tender flavors of corned beef with the sweetness of cabbage, onions, and carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef brisket, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the corned beef, onion, garlic, cabbage, carrots, and black pepper.
2. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Green Velvet Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are infused with the sweetness of green velvet cake mix and topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a unique dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 box green velvet cake mix
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, buttermilk, oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe onto cooled cupcakes.
Potato Leek Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect comfort food for chilly days. Made with tender potatoes, sweet leeks, and aromatic garlic, it’s a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped leeks and cook until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
7. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes
Irish Coffee Cheesecake
Rich and decadent, this cheesecake combines the flavors of Irish coffee with a velvety smooth texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in Baileys and coffee.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Guinness Beef Stew
Savor the rich flavors of Ireland with this hearty Guinness Beef Stew recipe, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Guinness, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Add carrots and potatoes; continue simmering for another 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Colcannon Mashed Potatoes
Experience the comforting taste of Ireland with this creamy Colcannon mashed potatoes recipe, infused with sautéed onions and kale.
Ingredients:
• 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, salt, and pepper, and mash with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked kale mixture with the mashed potatoes and stir in heavy cream or whole milk until desired consistency is reached.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your creamy Colcannon mashed potatoes!
Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Create a colorful and healthy snack with this simple recipe! Fresh fruit is threaded onto skewers to make a vibrant and easy-to-eat treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup grapes, halved
– 1 cup kiwi slices
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Optional: coconut flakes or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Thread a piece of fruit onto the end of each skewer.
2. Alternate between different fruits and colors to create a rainbow effect.
3. Repeat step 1 until the skewer is full, leaving about 1 inch at the top unthreaded.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Leprechaun Punch
Get ready to charm your friends with this magical green punch, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or any occasion that calls for a little Irish flair!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup apple juice
– 1/4 cup green Kool-Aid powder (or to taste)
– Slices of lime and orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon-lime soda, pineapple juice, and apple juice.
2. Stir in the green Kool-Aid powder until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Leprechaun Punch over ice in glasses or cups.
5. Garnish with slices of lime and orange for a festive touch.
Cooking Time: None! This punch is ready to serve as soon as it’s chilled.
Green Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with this vibrant twist! These green deviled eggs get their unique color from the addition of matcha powder and are perfect for a St. Patrick’s Day party or any occasion that calls for a little green.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
– Chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, combine the yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the matcha powder to the yolk mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle with chopped chives or scallions for garnish.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on egg size)
Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef
This hearty dish is a comforting twist on traditional shepherd’s pie, featuring ground beef and a rich brown gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the beef mixture.
7. Dot the potatoes with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Irish Apple Cake
A moist and flavorful cake filled with tender apples, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add diced apples and vanilla extract to the wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Green Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a healthy and delicious twist on traditional pancakes. These green pancakes are packed with nutrients from spinach and sweetened with pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup cooked and mashed spinach
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, spinach, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk until smooth.
3. Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with pure maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
A delicious and savory twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of spinach and feta cheese with tender chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bailey’s Chocolate Mousse
Treat your loved ones (or yourself!) to a rich and decadent dessert with this Bailey’s Chocolate Mousse recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz heavy cream
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons Bailey’s Irish Cream
– 4 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the sugar-cocoa mixture until well combined.
4. Stir in Bailey’s Irish Cream, melted chocolate, and vanilla extract.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Lucky Charms Treat Bars
Lucky Charms Treat Bars: A Magical Twist on Classic Bars
These Lucky Charms Treat Bars combine the classic Rice Krispies treats with the whimsical charm of Lucky Charms cereal. The result is a delightful and colorful dessert that’s perfect for kids’ parties or as a fun family treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup Lucky Charms cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 12 cups marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the Lucky Charms cereal.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
5. Press the Lucky Charms mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Allow to cool and harden, about 30-40 minutes.
Cooking Time: None needed, as this is a no-bake treat!
Green Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a refreshing and nutritious Green Smoothie Bowl! This recipe is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and creamy texture to keep you energized and focused.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups spinach
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup frozen mango
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)
– Toppings: sliced banana, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts
Instructions:
1. Add spinach, pineapple, mango, almond milk, and chia seeds to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add vanilla protein powder if using; blend again to combine.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
5. Top with sliced banana, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Immediately and enjoy!
Irish Cheddar and Beer Dip
This creamy dip combines the rich flavors of Irish cheddar and stout beer, perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup stout beer (such as Guinness)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine shredded Irish cheddar, stout beer, mayonnaise, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie
A refreshing twist on traditional ice cream pie, this dessert combines the coolness of mint with the richness of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts mint chocolate chip ice cream
– 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (about 12-15 cookies)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Chocolate shavings or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed cookies and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the cookie mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Spread the mint chocolate chip ice cream evenly over the crust.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Sweeten the whipped cream with granulated sugar and salt.
7. Top the ice cream with the whipped cream mixture.
8. Chill in the freezer for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Summary
Get ready to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with these 20 quick and easy recipes that are sure to bring good luck and festive cheer! From sweet treats like Shamrock-shaped Sugar Cookies and Green Velvet Cupcakes to savory dishes like Corned Beef and Cabbage Stew and Guinness Beef Stew, there’s something for everyone on this list. Plus, don’t miss out on fun drinks like Leprechaun Punch and Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Pie. With these recipes, you’ll be sure to make your St. Patrick’s Day celebration a memorable one!
