Potatoes, cabbage, and a few spoonfuls of diced corned beef simmer into a smooth, hearty soup finished with a little cream. It’s straightforward, filling, and exactly what’s expected from an Irish kitchen.
How to Make Irish Potato Chowder with Corned Beef
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Add the onion and shredded cabbage. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often, until softened and lightly golden.
Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, celery salt, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth (or leave slightly chunky if preferred).
Stir in the heavy cream and diced corned beef. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to warm through.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh sprouts or chopped parsley.
Recipe Notes
Leftover corned beef from a traditional Irish dinner works perfectly here.
If you prefer a chunkier chowder, only blend half the soup and mix it back in.
Substitute vegetable broth and omit corned beef for a vegetarian variation.
The chowder thickens as it cools, add a little broth when reheating.
Freezes well for up to 2 months.
FAQ – Irish Potato Chowder
Can I use red potatoes instead of russets?
Yes, but russets break down slightly, giving a creamier texture. Red potatoes will yield a chunkier soup.
How do I thicken the chowder further?
Let it simmer uncovered for 10 extra minutes or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk works, though the soup will be lighter.
What can I serve with this chowder?
Crusty soda bread or a simple green salad complements it nicely.
Irish Potato and Corned Beef Chowder
- Total Time: 53 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Hearty and flavorful, this Irish-inspired chowder is perfect for a chilly evening. Creamy potatoes and tender corned beef make it a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bag (397 g) Coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage
- 3 lbs (1361 g) russet potatoes
- 6 cups (1419 ml) chicken broth
- 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cups (237 ml) heavy cream
- 3 cups (710 ml) diced leftover corned beef
- Sprouts
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the onions and cabbage and cook until softened, about 8 minutes.
- Add the potatoes, seasonings, and chicken broth; stir.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- With an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth, or until desired consistency.
- Pour in the cream and corned beef; stir to combine.
- Serve. Garnish with sprouts if desired.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use beef broth instead of chicken broth.
- To make this a vegetarian chowder, omit the corned beef and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or beans.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 60
If you liked this, you are going to love these favorite Irish recipes:
Irish Soda Bread made with Sour Cream and Rosemary
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for chicken broth in this chowder?
You can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth to keep the chowder vegetarian.
How can I adjust the texture if I prefer a chunkier chowder?
Only blend half of the soup and mix it back in for a chunkier consistency.
What can I use as a garnish for this chowder?
You can garnish the chowder with fresh sprouts or chopped parsley before serving.

leftover corned beef becomes dinner all week.
Made this chowder for a family dinner. We added extra corned beef for grandpa! :D
As long as Grandpa is happy, we’re happy!
So amazing! Turned out really well!
My favorite chowder ever!!!