Dublin Coddle is a hearty, comforting Irish stew made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-simmered in broth for deep, rich flavor. This classic Irish dish is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or a cozy meal on a chilly night. Traditionally, Dublin Coddle was made to use up leftovers, making it a simple, budget-friendly, and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Hearty – A filling and comforting dish with savory sausages, smoky bacon, and tender potatoes.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples for an easy, fuss-free meal.
- Great for St. Patrick’s Day – A traditional Irish pub favorite, perfect for celebrating.
- Slow-Simmered Flavor – Cooking low and slow infuses every bite with warmth and richness.
- Perfect with Crusty Bread – Sop up the flavorful broth with Irish soda bread or rustic sourdough.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb pork sausages (Irish-style preferred)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- ½ cup stout beer (optional)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Brown the Meats:
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat.
- Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove and slice into chunks.
- In the same pot, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Onions:
- In the bacon drippings, cook the onions and garlic for about 5 minutes, until softened.
Layer the Ingredients:
- Add the chopped potatoes to the pot.
- Layer in the sausage chunks and crispy bacon.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Simmer the Coddle:
- Pour in the broth and stout beer (if using).
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 1 hour, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 480 kcal per serving
Variations
- Guinness Coddle – Use Guinness stout for extra depth and richness.
- Extra Veggies – Add carrots, parsnips, or cabbage for more texture and flavor.
- Slow Cooker Version – Brown the sausages and bacon, then layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.
- Spicy Twist – Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
- Vegetarian Option – Use vegetarian sausages and vegetable broth instead.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled coddle for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat, adding a little broth if needed.
FAQs
What type of sausages work best?
Traditional Irish pork sausages (like bangers) are ideal, but you can use bratwurst, kielbasa, or even breakfast sausages.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Coddle tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Do I have to use beer?
No! You can replace the stout beer with extra broth if you prefer.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for a soft, creamy texture.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on Manual (Pressure Cook) for 20 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
What can I serve with Dublin Coddle?
Serve with Irish soda bread, brown bread, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious broth.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free sausages and broth.
How do I make the broth thicker?
Mash a few of the cooked potatoes into the broth, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).
Can I add cheese?
While not traditional, topping your coddle with grated Irish cheddar before serving adds a rich, creamy finish.
Why is it called “Coddle”?
The term “coddle” means to cook gently—a reference to the slow-simmering process that develops deep flavors.
Conclusion
This Dublin Coddle is a warm, hearty, and authentic Irish dish, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any cozy night in. With its savory sausages, smoky bacon, and tender potatoes, this slow-simmered stew is easy to make and full of comforting flavors. Serve with crusty bread or soda bread, and enjoy a taste of Ireland in every bite!
