20 Delicious Easy St Patrick’s Day Recipes for Beginners

Posted on April 3, 2025

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Are you ready to cook up some luck and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a delicious spread? Look no further! As a beginner, it can be intimidating to try out new recipes, especially when they come from a different cultural tradition. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share 20 easy and tasty St. Patrick’s Day recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic dishes like corned beef and cabbage to sweet treats like green velvet cupcakes, we’ll cover it all.

In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.

Irish soda bread with raisins

Irish soda bread with raisins
Classic Irish Soda Bread with Raisins Recipe

Irish soda bread is a staple of traditional Irish cuisine, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews. This recipe adds sweet and chewy raisins to the classic mix.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, mixing until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
5. Fold in sugar and raisins.
6. Turn dough onto floured surface and gently knead for 1-2 minutes.
7. Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Irish soda bread with raisins!

Slow cooker corned beef and cabbage

Slow cooker corned beef and cabbage
Savor the classic combination of tender corned beef and flavorful cabbage, effortlessly cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound corned beef brisket, trimmed
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the corned beef brisket in the slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced onion, minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf on top of the beef.
3. Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing thinly.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (low), 2-6 hours (high)

Easy shepherd’s pie with ground beef

Easy shepherd
Easy Shepherd’s Pie with Ground Beef: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

This classic shepherd’s pie recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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 (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef 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, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Guinness beef stew with carrots

Guinness beef stew with carrots
Rich and flavorful, this Guinness beef stew is a hearty comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The addition of sweet carrots adds a delightful contrast to the savory broth.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, Guinness stout, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.

Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours

Quick colcannon with kale

Quick colcannon with kale
A twist on the classic Irish dish, this recipe combines mashed potatoes with sautéed kale and garlic for a nutritious and flavorful side dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or holiday gathering.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and leaves coarsely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in 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 until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir the cooked kale mixture into the mashed potatoes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Simple Irish potato soup

Simple Irish potato soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Irish cuisine, made with tender potatoes, onions, and garlic. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Baked honey mustard glazed ham

Baked honey mustard glazed ham

Baked Honey Mustard Glazed Ham Recipe

A sweet and savory glazed ham recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. This baked honey mustard glazed ham is easy to make and impressive to serve!

Ingredients:

  • 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup pineapple rings (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Pat the ham dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together honey, mustard, brown sugar, cloves, and cinnamon.
  3. Score the fat layer on the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
  4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush the honey-mustard glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
  5. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. If using pineapple rings, place them on top of the ham during the last 30 minutes of baking.

Cooking Time:

2-3 hours at 325°F.

One-pot Irish lamb stew

One-pot Irish lamb stew
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful stew, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion. Tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and peas come together in a rich broth that’s easy to prepare and serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Heat the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, carrot, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
5. Stir in frozen peas; cook an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Cheesy potato pancakes

Cheesy potato pancakes
These crispy potato pancakes get an extra burst of flavor from the addition of melted cheese and a hint of onion. Perfect as a side dish or snack, they’re sure to please!

Ingredients:

– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallion (green onion)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine potatoes, flour, cheese, scallion, and egg. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total

Green velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting

Green velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting
These moist and flavorful green velvet cupcakes are topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. With their subtle cocoa flavor and vibrant green color, they’re sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the cupcakes:
– 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 whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon green food coloring

For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and milk until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Add food coloring and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Shamrock-shaped sugar cookies

Shamrock-shaped sugar cookies
Get into the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with these adorable Shamrock-shaped sugar cookies, perfect for a fun and festive treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Green food coloring (optional)
– Shamrock-shaped cookie cutter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. If desired, add green food coloring to tint the dough.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Use Shamrock-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Instant pot Irish oatmeal

Instant pot Irish oatmeal
Start your day with a comforting bowl of creamy Irish oatmeal cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This recipe is a twist on traditional rolled oats, adding a hint of sweetness and a velvety texture.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup steel-cut oats
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: raisins, cinnamon, or other toppings to your liking

Instructions:

1. Add the steel-cut oats, water or milk, and salt to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Press “manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Allow the pressure to release naturally (NPR) for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and brown sugar until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with your preferred sweet or savory additions.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Easy Irish coffee with whipped cream

Easy Irish coffee with whipped cream
Easy Irish Coffee with Whipped Cream Recipe

As the night winds down, warm up with a rich and creamy Easy Irish Coffee featuring whipped cream.

Ingredients:

– 1 shot of strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Brew a shot of strong coffee and pour it into a preheated glass mug.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the coffee, stirring until dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer or a whisk until stiff peaks form.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Place a dollop of whipped cream on top of the coffee mixture.
6. Dot the whipped cream with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Lucky charm cereal treats

Lucky charm cereal treats
Get ready to channel your inner kid with these magical Lucky Charm cereal treats! Using the beloved marshmallow-based snack and adding a dash of whimsy, you’ll create a delightful treat that’s sure to bring smiles.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups Lucky Charms cereal
– 12 oz marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter or margarine
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Quickly add the Lucky Charms cereal and stir until well coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Allow to cool and harden before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes

Baked cabbage with bacon

Baked cabbage with bacon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the smoky richness of bacon, resulting in a deliciously easy side dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cabbage with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. In a separate pan, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add cooked bacon to the bowl of cabbage and toss until combined.
5. Transfer the cabbage mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread out in an even layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Quick Irish cheddar soup

Quick Irish cheddar soup
This creamy soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup Irish cheddar cheese, grated
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in milk and grated cheddar cheese until smooth.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Green smoothie with spinach and banana

Green smoothie with spinach and banana
Start your day off right with this nutrient-packed smoothie that’s both refreshing and delicious. This recipe combines the health benefits of spinach with the natural sweetness of banana, making it a great way to get your daily dose of greens.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Add the spinach, banana, almond milk, and chia seeds to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just a few minutes.

Corned beef hash skillet

Corned beef hash skillet
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast that’s packed with flavor and texture. This corned beef hash skillet recipe is an easy, one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy mornings.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup diced cooked corned beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, diced
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced corned beef and stir to combine with the vegetables.
4. Make four wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each well.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes

Simple mint chocolate chip ice cream

Simple mint chocolate chip ice cream
This refreshing ice cream recipe combines the sweetness of chocolate chips with the cooling sensation of mint, perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the melted butter, peppermint extract, and salt to the mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and pour it into an ice cream maker.
5. Churn the mixture according to manufacturer’s instructions until thickened, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips during the last 2 minutes of churning.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Easy Baileys chocolate mousse

Easy Baileys chocolate mousse
Easy Baileys Chocolate Mousse: A rich and decadent dessert perfect for any occasion, featuring the smoothness of chocolate and the indulgent flavor of Baileys Irish Cream.

Ingredients:

– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Pour in the melted chocolate and stir until smooth.
6. Stir in the Baileys Irish Cream.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.

Cooking Time: None (prep time includes chilling)

Summary

Get ready to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with these 20 delicious and easy recipes perfect for beginners! From traditional Irish dishes like soda bread, corned beef and cabbage, and shepherd’s pie, to sweet treats like green velvet cupcakes and mint chocolate chip ice cream, there’s something for everyone. Plus, get creative with fun shapes like shamrock cookies and lucky charm cereal treats. These simple and tasty recipes will make your St. Patrick’s Day celebration a hit!

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