Let me tell you, the aroma of simmering sausages, onions, and potatoes wafting from my kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. It’s that kind of comforting scent that wraps you up like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. The first time I made this Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew, I was instantly hooked. I remember pausing, spoon in hand, just smiling because I knew I was onto something truly special.
When I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to make a version of this stew on rainy weekends, and it was pure, nostalgic comfort served in a bowl. I stumbled upon this recipe years ago while trying to recreate that same feeling, and honestly, I wish I’d discovered it way sooner. My family couldn’t stop sneaking spoonfuls off the stove (and I can’t really blame them).
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to brighten up your Pinterest recipe board or a cozy dish perfect for potlucks and family dinners, this Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew fits the bill. It’s dangerously easy to make, packed with hearty flavors, and feels like a warm hug in every bite. After testing it multiple times (in the name of research, of course), it’s become a staple for our family gatherings and gifting. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, this Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew isn’t just your average stew—it’s comfort food perfected with a few tricks up its sleeve. Here’s why you’re going to love it:
- Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 90 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cozy cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely have everything already in your pantry or fridge.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a laid-back Sunday feast.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the juicy sausages paired with tender potatoes and savory broth.
- Unbelievably Delicious: The slow-cooked flavors meld into a soul-soothing dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day (even if it hasn’t!).
What sets this recipe apart? It’s all in the layering—starting with caramelized onions that add subtle sweetness, plump sausages browned to juicy perfection, and the gentle simmering in a lightly seasoned broth that brings everything together. Plus, the addition of fresh herbs gives it a lively kick without overpowering the traditional taste. This isn’t just another stew; it’s the best version you’ll find, guaranteed to make you close your eyes after the first bite.
Whether you want to impress guests without stress or simply wish for a hearty meal that feels like a hug from Ireland, this recipe has you covered.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, and substitutions are easy if needed.
- For the Stew:
- 8 Irish pork sausages (or substitute with bratwurst or your favorite thick sausage)
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into thick rounds (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced (yellow onions add sweetness)
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken or vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought; low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds richness and helps caramelize onions)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine or apple cider (optional, but adds depth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for subtle aromatics)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (fresh if available, about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup (150 g) diced carrots (for sweetness and color)
- 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped leeks (adds mild onion flavor)
For sausages, I recommend brands like Clonakilty or Glanbia if you want an authentic Irish flavor; otherwise, any quality pork sausage works. If you’re aiming for gluten-free, check the sausage ingredients carefully or use homemade sausage.
In summer, swapping potatoes for chunks of butternut squash or sweet potatoes lends a seasonal twist. And for dairy-free diets, swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based alternative without losing that buttery aroma.
Equipment Needed
- A large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (preferably 5-6 quarts) – this helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning.
- Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for prepping vegetables.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring (won’t scratch your cookware).
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Optional: a ladle for serving and a thermometer if you want to check sausage doneness precisely.
If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a large, deep skillet with a tight-fitting lid works too, but keep an eye to avoid scorching. I once tried this in a slow cooker, but the texture wasn’t quite the same—so I stick with stovetop methods for that perfect blend of caramelization and gentle simmering.
For budget-friendly cooks, any sturdy pot will do; just be sure it’s big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
Preparation Method

- Prep your ingredients: Peel and slice the potatoes into thick, even rounds (about 1/2 inch or 1.3 cm thick). Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic. If using carrots or leeks, dice them similarly.
- Brown the sausages: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausages and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently to get an even golden crust. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point. Remove and set aside.
- Caramelize the onions: In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add butter plus remaining oil. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for about 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown and sweet-smelling. This step is key for that rich stew flavor.
- Add garlic and herbs: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant, but don’t let the garlic burn.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in the white wine or apple cider (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom with your spoon—this adds layers of flavor.
- Layer the stew: Arrange a layer of potato slices over the onions, then add half the sausages on top. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sausages. If you’re adding carrots or leeks, sprinkle them among the layers for color and sweetness.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour the chicken broth over everything, just enough to almost cover the ingredients (about 4 cups or 960 ml). Season lightly with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
- Cook low and slow: Let the stew simmer on low for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The potatoes should be tender and sausage cooked through. Check occasionally to ensure it’s not drying out—add a splash of water or broth if needed.
- Final touches: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley before serving for a bright contrast.
If you notice the stew is too watery near the end, uncover and increase heat for 5-10 minutes to thicken the broth slightly. The texture should be hearty but not soupy.
Pro tip: Let the stew rest off the heat for 10 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors settle and the potatoes soak up all that goodness.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Let’s face it, making stew sounds simple but there are a few tricks that make all the difference. First, don’t rush the caramelizing onions. That process builds the backbone of flavor, and skipping it means missing out on that sweet, deep taste.
When browning sausages, keep the heat medium-high but watch closely. Too hot, and the outside burns while the inside stays raw; too low and you won’t get that satisfying crust. Flipping often helps them cook evenly.
Layering ingredients rather than mixing right away lets each component cook properly. Potatoes on the bottom absorb broth and soften perfectly, while sausages on top stay juicy.
Low and slow is your friend here—high heat will toughen sausages and make potatoes mushy. Also, resist stirring too much mid-cooking to keep those layers intact.
One lesson I learned the hard way: using broth with too much salt can overpower the stew. Go easy at first and season at the end.
Finally, multitasking while this cooks is a breeze. Just set a timer and check in occasionally—this recipe is forgiving but responds well to a watchful eye.
Variations & Adaptations
One of the reasons I love the Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew is how flexible it can be. Here are some ways to mix it up:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap sausages for hearty mushrooms (like portobello) and use vegetable broth. Add white beans for protein.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a chopped chili to the onions for a subtle heat boost.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sausages and ensure broth is gluten-free. This stew naturally avoids flour, so no thickening worries.
- Slow Cooker Adaptation: Brown sausages and caramelize onions on stovetop, then transfer everything to slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Seasonal Swap: In fall, add diced butternut squash or parsnips. In spring, toss in fresh peas or green beans at the end of cooking.
Personally, I tried adding a splash of Irish stout instead of wine once—gave it a richer, maltier flavor that was a nice change of pace.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew is best served hot, straight from the pot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Pair it with crusty Irish soda bread or a hearty whole-grain loaf to mop up the delicious broth.
For drinks, a pint of Guinness or a dry white wine complements beautifully, but even a simple cup of hot tea works wonders.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the stew.
If you want to freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
This cozy stew offers a hearty balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Each serving contains roughly:
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 450-500 kcal | 25-30 g | 35-40 g | 18-22 g |
Potatoes provide good energy and potassium, while sausages contribute protein and iron. Using lean pork sausages or turkey alternatives can reduce fat content. Herbs like thyme and parsley add antioxidants without extra calories.
Keep in mind, this recipe contains pork and dairy (butter), so it’s not suitable for certain dietary restrictions unless substitutions are made. For a gluten-free diet, be sure your sausage and broth are labeled gluten-free.
From a wellness perspective, this stew is a satisfying way to nourish the body and soul, especially during cooler months when you need a bit of extra comfort.
Conclusion
So, why is this Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew worth your time? Because it’s simple, satisfying, and packed with that kind of flavor that makes you feel right at home. I love how it brings people around the table, sharing stories and smiles over a warm bowl.
Feel free to customize it to your taste—add more veggies, swap sausages, or tweak the herbs. The basic method is forgiving and adaptable, making it perfect for cooks of all levels.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Drop a comment, share your tweaks, or tell me about your own cozy comfort food favorites. Happy cooking, and here’s to many warm, delicious meals ahead!
FAQs
Can I make Dublin Coddle ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
What type of sausages work best for this stew?
Traditional Irish pork sausages are ideal, but bratwurst, Cumberland, or any thick pork sausage will work well. Avoid thin breakfast sausages as they might fall apart.
Is it possible to make this stew gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free sausages and check that your broth contains no gluten. The recipe itself doesn’t include flour or breading.
Can I use a slow cooker to make Dublin Coddle?
You can. Brown the sausages and caramelize onions first, then layer everything in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender results.
What can I serve with Dublin Coddle?
Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad all pair nicely. A pint of stout or a crisp white wine also complements the meal beautifully.
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Cozy Dublin Coddle Irish Sausage Stew
A comforting Irish stew featuring browned sausages, caramelized onions, and tender potatoes simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners and easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients
- 8 Irish pork sausages (or bratwurst or favorite thick sausage)
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into thick rounds (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced (yellow onions preferred)
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine or apple cider (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional add-ins: 1 cup (150 g) diced carrots
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped leeks
Instructions
- Peel and slice potatoes into thick rounds about 1/2 inch thick. Thinly slice onions and mince garlic. Dice carrots and leeks if using.
- Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown sausages on all sides for 5-7 minutes until golden but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and remaining oil to the pot. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for 10-12 minutes until onions are golden brown and caramelized.
- Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning the garlic.
- Pour in white wine or apple cider if using, scraping up browned bits from the pot bottom.
- Layer half the potato slices over the onions, then half the sausages. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sausages. Sprinkle carrots and leeks among layers if using.
- Pour chicken broth over the layers to almost cover ingredients (about 4 cups). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until potatoes are tender and sausages cooked through. Add water or broth if needed to prevent drying.
- Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- If stew is too watery near the end, uncover and increase heat for 5-10 minutes to thicken broth slightly.
- Let stew rest off heat for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
Notes
Do not rush caramelizing onions as it builds flavor. Brown sausages evenly over medium-high heat. Layer ingredients rather than mixing to maintain texture. Use low heat to avoid tough sausages and mushy potatoes. Season lightly at first and adjust at the end. Let stew rest 10 minutes before serving. For gluten-free, use gluten-free sausages and broth. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or plant-based alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximatel
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 28
Keywords: Dublin Coddle, Irish stew, sausage stew, comfort food, easy stew, Irish recipe, hearty stew


