17 Quick & Easy St. Patrick’s Day Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Are you ready to make your weeknights more fun? St. Patrick's Day is coming, and we have 17 easy recipes to help you celebrate. You'll find yummy dishes like Lucky Irish Soup and sweet desserts that are perfect for busy weeknights.

These recipes are quick and easy to make, so you can spend more time with your family and friends. You can choose from a variety of delicious Irish dishes, from main courses to desserts. What's your favorite Irish food to cook and share with your loved ones?

1. Lucky Irish Soup Recipes

Delicious and hearty Irish soup to warm your belly on St. Patrick's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, potatoes, and carrot, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or allow it to cool and puree in a blender.
7. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.

2. Simple Shepherd's Pie

A traditional Irish dish made with ground meat and mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground eef
• b1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of 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.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, frozen peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture.
7. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes.
8. Dot the top of the potatoes with the butter.
9. Bake the shepherd's pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy.

3. Quick Corned Beef and Cabbage

Traditional Irish dish made easy with a pressure cooker.

Ingredients

• 1 pound corned beef brisket
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head cabbage, cut into wedges
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Slice the corned beef against the grain into 1/4-inch thick slices.
2. Heat the chopped onion and minced garlic in the pressure cooker over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the sliced corned beef, beef broth, brown sugar, and thyme to the pressure cooker.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to "sealing" then cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
5. Quick release the pressure then add the cabbage wedges to the pressure cooker.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to "sealing" then cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes then season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the corned beef with the cooked cabbage and onion.

4. Easy Colcannon Recipes

Creamy colcannon is a classic Irish dish made with mashed potatoes and kale.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash.
2. Remove the stems from the kale and chop the leaves.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the chopped kale to the onion mixture and cook until wilted.
5. Combine the mashed potatoes, kale mixture, and milk.
6. Add butter, salt, and pepper, and mix until smooth.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.

5. St Patrick's Day Desserts

Indulge in a sweet Irish treat with a minty twist on St. Patrick's Day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
• Green food coloring

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and peppermint extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into desired shapes and add green food coloring to tint.
6. Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
7. Allow the treats to cool before serving.

6. Irish Soda Bread in a Flash

Delicious Irish soda bread ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add butter and rub into flour mixture until crumbly.
4. Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk.
5. Mix until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead a few times.
7. Shape into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet.
8. Cut a cross in the top of the loaf.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

7. Fast and Delicious Boxty

Fast and delicious Irish potato pancake dish.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the potato mixture and stir to combine.
4. Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and cook the boxty for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite topping or filling.

8. Weeknight Irish Stew

Hearty Irish stew for a delicious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lamb or beef
• 2 medium onions
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 medium carrots
• 2 medium potatoes
• 1 large celery stalk
• 1 cup lamb or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Cut the lamb or beef into 1 1/2-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add the lamb or beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the broth, thyme, and browned meat to the pot.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the meat is tender, about 1 1/2 hours.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

9. Easy Bacon and Cabbage Recipes

Delicious Irish dish made with bacon and cabbage.

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 head of cabbage
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Chop the bacon into small pieces and cook in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside.
3. Chop the onion and garlic, then add to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cabbage to the pan, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the cooked bacon back into the pan, stirring to combine with the cabbage mixture.
6. Add butter, salt, and pepper to the pan, stirring to combine.
7. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
8. Serve hot and enjoy.

10. Traditional Irish Scones

Traditional Irish scones are a classic treat often served with tea or coffee.

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 or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 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.

11. Shamrock Shakes and Smoothies

A green and creamy milkshake perfect for St. Patrick's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon green food coloring
• Whipped cream and sprinkles for topping

Instructions

1. Combine ice cream, milk, heavy cream, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract in a blender.
2. Add green food coloring and blend until the mixture is evenly colored.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness and flavor as needed.
4. Pour the shake into a glass and top with whipped cream and sprinkles.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy.

12. Quick and Easy Irish Potato Recipes

Delicious Irish potato recipes perfect for St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

Ingredients

• 3-4 large potatoes
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the potatoes, onion, and garlic.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and toss to coat.
5. Dot the top with butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

13. Hearty Irish Beef Stew

Hearty Irish Beef Stew is a traditional dish made with tender beef and vegetables.

Ingredients

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

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 carrots and potatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the beef is tender, about 2 1/2 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.

14. No-Fuss Baileys Irish Cream Desserts

Indulge in rich and creamy Baileys Irish Cream desserts with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar in a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat.
2. Remove the mixture from heat and stir in unsalted butter and vanilla extract until dissolved.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then stir in Baileys Irish Cream.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler and drizzle over the chilled dessert.
6. Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top of each dessert and serve chilled.

15. Easy Irish Cream Cheesecake

Rich and creamy cheesecake infused with Irish cream liqueur.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup Irish cream liqueur
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into the prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time.
4. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until combined.
5. Stir in Irish cream liqueur and heavy cream.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cheesecake cool completely in the pan.
9. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
10. Top with powdered sugar before serving.

16. Rapid Raspberry Irish Trifle

Rapid Raspberry Irish Trifle is a layered dessert with raspberries and whipped cream.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups raspberries
• 1 cup sponge cake
• 1/2 cup Irish whiskey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Cut the sponge cake into small pieces and layer in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the vanilla extract and whip until combined.
4. Spoon a layer of whipped cream over the cake pieces.
5. Add a layer of raspberries over the whipped cream.
6. Drizzle the Irish whiskey over the raspberries.
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

17. Speedy Guinness Chocolate Cake

Rich, moist chocolate cake infused with Guinness stout.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup Guinness stout
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, Guinness stout, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Conclusion

You'll whip up these St. Patrick's Day recipes like a pro, and they'll disappear in a flash, leaving you feeling like a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. With these 17 quick and easy dishes, you'll be cooking up a storm, and your taste buds will be doing the Irish jig in no time.