There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting plate of Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage, especially when it’s been slow-cooked to perfection. This classic dish is packed with tender, flavorful meat, buttery cabbage, and hearty vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work! Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a cozy meal, this easy recipe will become a go-to favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tender : Cooking low and slow ensures ultra-tender beef.
- Hands-Off Cooking : Just set it and forget it—your slow cooker does all the work!
- Rich and Flavorful : The broth infuses the beef, cabbage, and veggies with amazing taste.
- Perfect for Gatherings : This dish is great for family dinners or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Corned beef brisket : Comes with a seasoning packet, which adds extra flavor.
- Yellow onion : Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Carrots : Cut into large chunks for a hearty bite.
- Baby potatoes : Red or gold potatoes work best.
- Garlic cloves : Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Beef broth : Enhances the meaty richness.
- Bay leaves : A classic seasoning for depth of flavor.
- Cabbage : Cut into wedges and added toward the end for the perfect texture.
Full ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card below!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Slow Cooker
Place the onion, carrots, potatoes, and garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the beef.
2. Add the Corned Beef
Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine, then place it on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the seasoning packet over the meat.
3. Pour in the Broth and Seasonings
Pour beef broth over everything, making sure the liquid covers the vegetables but not necessarily the beef. Add the bay leaves for extra flavor.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
5. Add the Cabbage
During the last 1 to 1.5 hours of cooking, add the cabbage wedges on top of the beef and cover again. This ensures they stay tender but not overcooked.
6. Slice and Serve
Once done, remove the corned beef and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve with the cooked vegetables and broth spooned over the top.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve with mustard or horseradish : These add a delicious tangy kick.
- Pair with crusty bread : Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container : Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently : Warm in a skillet with a bit of broth or microwave in short bursts.
- Freeze for later : Corned beef freezes well for up to 3 months.
Helpful Notes
- Don’t Skip Rinsing the Corned Beef : This helps remove excess salt and prevents the dish from being too salty.
- Use Gold or Red Potatoes : They hold their shape better than russet potatoes.
- Cut the Cabbage into Large Wedges : This prevents it from turning mushy.
- Cooking Time May Vary : Some slow cookers run hotter, so check for tenderness around the 7-hour mark.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use water instead of beef broth?
Yes, but beef broth adds a deeper, richer flavor. You can also use a mix of water and a splash of beer for extra taste!
What’s the best way to slice corned beef?
Always slice against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew pieces.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Turnips, parsnips, or celery can be great additions. Just be mindful of their cooking times.
Is it better to cook on LOW or HIGH?
LOW is best for the most tender meat, but HIGH works if you’re short on time.
Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Measuring Cup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs corned beef brisket with seasoning packet
- 1 large yellow onion sliced
- 4 medium carrots peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes red or gold, halved if large
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 small cabbage cut into wedges
Instructions
- Place the onion, carrots, potatoes, and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base.
- Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine, then place it on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the seasoning packet over the meat.
- Pour the beef broth over everything, ensuring the liquid covers the vegetables but not necessarily the beef. Add the bay leaves.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
- During the last 1 to 1.5 hours of cooking, add the cabbage wedges on top of the beef and cover again to cook until tender.
- Once done, remove the corned beef and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve with cooked vegetables and a spoonful of broth over the top.
Notes
Conclusion
This slow cooker corned beef and cabbage recipe is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal! It’s rich, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors that will make your kitchen smell amazing all day long. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner!