Name: Corned Beef And Cabbage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h 15 min
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 1 (3- to 4-lb) corned beef brisket, point or flat (with included spice packet*), fat cap removed; 1 large white or yellow onion, thickly sliced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 dried bay leaves; 1 ½ pounds small red potatoes (1½- to 2-inches diameter), cut in half if large; 8 oz carrots (about 4 medium), peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 ½ cups liquid (use low-sodium chicken broth, beef broth, water, or a stout beer, such as guinness. use 2 ½ cups liquid if preparing in the oven – see notes below); 1 small or ½ medium green cabbage, cut into thin wedges; optional for serving: chopped fresh parsley, coarse grain mustard, horseradish sauce

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

Corned beef and cabbage is a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. It’s that beautiful combination of tender, succulent meat and vibrant, crisp vegetables, simmered together to create a uniquely savory experience. With its origins steeped in Irish tradition, this dish evokes feelings of home, family gatherings, and holiday festivities, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. The aromas wafting from the kitchen as the brisket roasts gently fill the air with anticipation, beckoning everyone to the table.

Pin this for later!

Recently, I discovered just how incredibly easy it is to make this classic recipe in a slow cooker. The beauty of cooking corned beef and cabbage this way is that you can set it and forget it—letting the flavors meld while you go about your day. Imagine coming home to a pot of succulent meat and perfectly cooked vegetables, all ready for you to enjoy. It’s not just delicious; it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress family and friends. You’ll love how simple yet satisfying this dish is, so let’s dive into this recipe!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Corned Beef and Cabbage
Recipe FAQs
Corned Beef And Cabbage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep takes about 15 minutes, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with savory goodness from the spices, meat, and tender vegetables.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The colorful medley of cabbage, carrots, and potatoes makes for a vibrant presentation.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for cozy family dinners, St. Patrick’s Day, or any chilly evening.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets using broth alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 (3- to 4-lb) corned beef brisket: Use either the point or flat cut, which comes with a spice packet for added flavor. If you can’t find it, you can create a spice blend with mustard seeds, coriander, and peppercorns.
1 large white or yellow onion, thickly sliced: Adds a sweet base flavor that complements the meat wonderfully.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the dish with aromatic undertones.
2 dried bay leaves: Provides depth and richness to the overall taste.
1 ½ pounds small red potatoes: Choose small, tender potatoes for a delightful texture; cut in half if they’re large.
8 oz carrots (about 4 medium): Perfectly sweetened, these vibrant veggies balance the meal.
1 ½ cups liquid: Choose between low-sodium chicken broth, beef broth, water, or even a stout beer like Guinness. If cooking in the oven, increase to 2 ½ cups liquid for best results.
1 small or ½ medium green cabbage: Cut into thin wedges, it will become tender and flavorful as it cooks.
Optional for serving: Chopped fresh parsley, coarse grain mustard, or horseradish sauce for a kick.

How to Make Corned Beef and Cabbage

Prep the Corned Beef: Begin by removing the corned beef from its packaging and rinse it well under cold running water. This step helps to remove excess salt. Pat it dry with paper towels, then set it aside.
Layer the Cooker: In the bottom of a large 6- to 8-quart slow cooker, lay out the sliced onions and minced garlic, creating a flavorful bed for the meat.
Add the Corned Beef: Place the corned beef brisket, with the fat side facing up, directly over the onions. Sprinkle the seasoning packet over the top and tuck in the bay leaves around the meat.
Incorporate the Veggies: Scatter the halved potatoes and cut carrots around the brisket, filling the cooker with colorful goodness.
Pour the Liquid: Carefully pour your chosen liquid—broth, water, or beer—into the slow cooker over the vegetables. This will help everything cook beautifully.
Let it Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 8 to 10 hours, until the meat is tender and slices easily.
Add Cabbage: About 2 hours before serving, remove the lid and arrange the cabbage wedges on top of the brisket and vegetables. Replace the lid and let it cook for another 2 hours.
Ready to Serve: When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the corned beef and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Transfer the vegetables to a serving platter.
Slice and Serve: Slice the corned beef against the grain and lay the pieces on the platter alongside the vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the cooking liquid over everything for an extra burst of flavor.
Garnish and Enjoy: If you like, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top and serve with coarse grain mustard or horseradish sauce on the side.

Storing & Reheating

To properly store your leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you’re thinking about freezing any extras, do so in a freezer-safe container for a maximum of 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw and reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave, until just warmed through. Note that while the flavors may deepen, the texture of the cabbage could change slightly after freezing.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid oversalting: Rinse the corned beef well to prevent an overly salty outcome.
Check doneness: If you prefer your meat very tender, you can adjust the cooking time based on your texture preferences.
Ingredient Temperatures: Try to use room-temperature ingredients to ensure even cooking, especially with the corned beef.
Layer ingredients wisely: Always place the tougher veggies (like carrots and potatoes) on the bottom with the beef on top, allowing for even cooking.
Make-ahead magic: This dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time—just reheat when you’re ready to serve!

Corned beef and cabbage is a classic dish that’s both hearty and satisfying, making it a favorite in many homes. Beyond its delightful flavor, it encourages connection and conversation around the dinner table, where stories are shared and laughter fills the air. It’s packed with flavor and comfort, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal.

Don’t hesitate to put your personal spin on this recipe; whether by experimenting with spices or trying different veggies, your creativity can make it uniquely yours. Enjoy cooking this comforting dish and make it a delightful tradition in your kitchen!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the classic choice is corned beef brisket, you can also use a round roast or a chuck roast. Just keep in mind that different cuts may require adjustments in cooking time to achieve optimal tenderness.

What type of beer should I use for cooking?

A stout beer, like Guinness, works wonderfully in this recipe, adding depth and richness to the flavor. If you’re not a beer fan, low-sodium beef broth or water are great alternatives that will still yield delicious results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The beauty of corned beef and cabbage is that it flavors even better the next day. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.

How do I know when the brisket is done cooking?

The brisket is done when it is fork-tender and slices easily. You can also check with a meat thermometer—an internal temperature of about 190°F indicates it’s ready for slicing.

More Dinner Recipes

👉 If you make my Corned Beef And Cabbage recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.