Wash, peel, and chop the potatoes into evenly sized chunks so they cook evenly. Place them into a large pot filled with cold salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are soft enough to pierce easily with a fork.
While the potatoes cook, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until softened and slightly tender. Stir in the garlic and green onions, then sauté for another minute until fragrant and flavorful.
Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the warm pot. Let them sit for a minute so excess moisture evaporates. Mash the potatoes gently while slowly adding warm milk and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
Fold the cooked cabbage mixture into the mashed potatoes using a wooden spoon. Mix carefully so the potatoes stay fluffy and light. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Top the warm colcannon with an extra pat of butter for classic Irish flavor. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for freshness and color. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.