Name: Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 leeks, thinly sliced; 1 lb thinly sliced green cabbage; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 3 lbs russet potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced ⅛ inch thick; 2 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ lb Irish cheddar cheese, shredded; Olive oil (enough to cover skillet bottom plus a drizzle); Kosher salt; Fresh parsley, for topping; Minced chives, for topping; Freshly cracked black pepper, for topping; Flaky sea salt, for topping

If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy dish that celebrates the best of Irish flavors, you’ll want to try this Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe. It’s a luscious blend of tender potatoes, caramelized cabbage, and sharp Irish cheddar baked in a creamy sauce—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser in any kitchen.

A round dish in a black pan filled with a creamy baked casserole topped with a golden brown melted cheese layer mixed with caramelized brown onions spread unevenly across the surface. Thin, light beige potato slices are visible under the cheese and onions in some spots, creating a textured top layer with slightly crispy edges. The dish sits on a rustic white marbled surface. 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 Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore how this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage and leeks while wrapping everything in a velvety, cheesy embrace. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Depth of Flavor: The slow-cooked cabbage and leeks develop amazing caramelized notes that complement the creamy potatoes perfectly.
Classic Irish Touch: Sharp Irish cheddar cheese adds authentic richness and tanginess, giving this a true Irish soul.
Perfect Texture: Thinly sliced russet potatoes become tender and silky after baking, layering beautifully with the vegetables.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a comforting side or a hearty vegetarian main—either way, it’s a winner at your table.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When you shop for this Irish scalloped potatoes dish, quality and freshness truly shine. Look for firm russet potatoes and bright green cabbage—it makes a world of difference in texture and flavor. And don’t skimp on the Irish cheddar; it's key to that unmistakable sharp bite.

Flat lay of thinly sliced leeks in a simple white ceramic bowl, a small white bowl with minced garlic cloves, a fresh head of green cabbage with some loose leaves, whole uncracked brown russet potatoes, a small white bowl filled with heavy cream, a small white bowl heaped with shredded pale yellow Irish cheddar cheese, a small bunch of bright green parsley sprigs, a small pile of finely chopped chives, a small white bowl with coarse flaky sea salt, a small white bowl holding freshly cracked black pepper placed 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

Leeks: They bring a gentle, sweet onion flavor that softens beautifully and adds depth.
Green cabbage: Thinly sliced, it caramelizes and adds a slight crunch and earthy sweetness.
Garlic: Minced for a punch of fragrant warmth layered into the veggies.
Russet potatoes: Ideal for baking because they hold their shape but become tender and creamy when thinly sliced.
Heavy cream: Creates a luscious sauce that envelops every layer in richness.
Irish cheddar cheese: Sharp, aged, and full of character; it’s the soul of this recipe’s cheesy goodness.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing to develop those deep caramelized flavors in the veggies.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the components.
Fresh parsley and minced chives: Added at the end for a fresh, herbal brightness.
Freshly cracked black pepper and flaky sea salt: Perfect finishing touches for texture and flavor pop.

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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 Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to your tastes. Whether you want to add a little extra kick or adjust for dietary needs, small tweaks can make it feel like your very own signature dish.

Swap the cheese: If Irish cheddar isn’t on hand, I sometimes use a sharp white cheddar or even a bit of smoked cheddar for a subtle smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the cabbage.
Make it vegan: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based cheddar alternative. Sauté the leeks and cabbage in olive oil or vegan butter to keep that rich flavor.
Seasonal twist: Add sautéed mushrooms or leeks in place of, or alongside the cabbage for an earthier taste that’s perfect in autumn. A pinch of nutmeg in the cream also adds a lovely warmth.
Herb upgrade: Try folding in fresh thyme or rosemary with the cream before pouring it over the layers to add an aromatic lift that brings out the Irish charm.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe

The dish is a layered potato gratin placed in the center of a white plate with floral patterns on the edges. The gratin has multiple thin layers of golden-brown baked potatoes and melted cheese, topped with small green chive pieces and larger parsley leaves for garnish. The surface has a slightly crispy cheese crust with some browned, caramelized onions adding texture and color contrast. A rose gold fork is placed vertically to the right of the gratin on the plate. The plate sits on a dark rustic wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Flavor Base

Start by setting your oven to 375°F so it’s perfectly heated when your dish is ready to bake. While the oven warms up, grab a 12-inch cast-iron skillet and warm up enough olive oil to cover its bottom over medium heat. Toss in those thinly sliced leeks and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften and smell sweet. Then, add the sliced green cabbage along with a drizzle more olive oil and a good pinch of kosher salt. Stir it often for 8 to 10 minutes so the cabbage starts to soften and get a little color. Turn the heat down to low, add 2 tablespoons of water, and cook for an extra 5 minutes to let the cabbage really caramelize and develop rich flavor.

Step 2: Garlic and Cream Magic

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant—this quick step brings a lovely garlicky punch without overpowering. Remove the cabbage mixture from the skillet onto a plate, but keep that skillet—you’re going to layer right in it. Then, gently warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it just starts to simmer. This keeps it warm and silky, ready to soak slowly into those tender potatoes.

Step 3: Slice Potatoes Just Right

While the cream simmers, prepare your potatoes. Trim the ends off each russet and slice them thin — about ⅛” thick — using a mandoline if you have one. The uniform thinness ensures even cooking and that melt-in-your-mouth texture. The slices should be pliable but not paper-thin, which helps them layer up beautifully without breaking apart.

Step 4: Layer Up That Goodness

Now for the fun part! Arrange two layers of potato slices in your skillet in a circular pattern, overlapping just a bit like shingles on a roof. Sprinkle lightly with kosher salt, then pour one-fourth of that warm cream over everything. Next, spread one-fourth of the cabbage and leek mixture evenly, then top with one-fourth of the shredded Irish cheddar. Repeat this layering process three more times, so you have four layers total — potatoes, cream, cabbage, and cheddar — ending with cheese on top. This layering is what gives the dish its wonderfully creamy and cheesy texture throughout.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into your preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes, letting the cream work its magic as the potatoes soften. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the top should turn a gorgeous golden brown, and a paring knife should slide easily into the potatoes when they’re done.

Step 6: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the scalloped potatoes cool for about 5 minutes. This short rest helps everything set so your slices hold together beautifully on the plate. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, minced chives, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of flaky sea salt for that irresistible finishing touch. Then dig in—comfort on a plate!

Top Tip

Mastering the Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe is all about layering flavors and textures thoughtfully. Here are some insider tips that will make your dish stand out every time.

Use a Mandoline for Uniform Slices: Even, thin potato slices (about ⅛ inch thick) are key to achieving that perfect creamy texture and ensuring the potatoes cook evenly throughout.
Don't Rush the Cabbage Caramelization: Cooking your leeks and cabbage low and slow brings out natural sweetness—this adds a dimension of flavor that really elevates the dish.
Keep the Cream Warm: Pouring warm cream over each layer helps the potatoes cook gently and absorb that luscious sauce perfectly.
Cover During Part of Baking: Covering the dish with foil for the first 40 minutes traps moisture so the potatoes become tender without drying out, then uncovering lets the top finish with a golden, bubbly crust.

How to Serve Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe

The image shows a black pan filled with one main layer of thin, round potato slices that almost cover the whole pan. The potato slices are pale cream colored with light brown edges, and they are lightly sprinkled with coarse salt, giving a bit of sparkle on top. Underneath the potatoes, there is a hint of a warm, cooked filling, possibly caramelized onions or a similar ingredient, seen through small gaps between the slices. The pan sits on a dark wooden surface, which should be imagined as a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish your Irish Scalloped Potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and minced chives for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. Add freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving to enhance all the rich, creamy flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a comforting side that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted root vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve alongside shepherd’s pie or braised lamb for a true Irish-inspired feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, simply allow leftovers to cool, then store them covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for longer storage. Cool completely, then transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat leftover Irish Scalloped Potatoes, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. For a quicker option, microwave individual servings but watch carefully to avoid drying out the creamy layers.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Irish cheddar gives a distinctive sharp flavor, you can substitute it with a sharp white cheddar or even a mature English cheddar if that's what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to use a cast-iron skillet?

Not at all. A similarly sized oven-safe baking dish works just as well if you don’t have a cast-iron skillet. Just be sure it’s large enough to hold all the layers comfortably.

How can I tell when the potatoes are done baking?

The potatoes are perfectly cooked when they are tender and easily pierced with a paring knife. The top should also be a beautiful golden brown and bubbling slightly.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

To make a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with your favorite plant-based cream and use a vegan cheddar alternative. The texture will vary slightly but it will still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

Irish Scalloped Potatoes with Cabbage and Cheddar Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its creamy layers, gentle caramelized cabbage, and sharp, melty cheese, every bite tells a story of traditional Irish flavors with a modern twist. Whether you're serving it as a standout side or a satisfying vegetarian main, it’s sure to bring smiles and seconds at your table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do baking and sharing it!