Crockpot Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe

Crockpot Corned Beef and Cabbage is a classic Irish-American dish that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want a hearty, comforting meal. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish features tender corned beef, flavorful cabbage, and hearty vegetables for a delicious and easy one-pot meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work for you.
• Tender and Flavorful – The long cooking time ensures the meat is juicy and full of flavor.
• Perfect for Celebrations – Ideal for St. Patrick’s Day or any family gathering.
• One-Pot Meal – Less cleanup and simple preparation make this dish a winner.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Corned beef brisket with seasoning packet
• Green cabbage, cut into wedges
• Carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• Baby potatoes or red potatoes, halved
• Onion, quartered
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Beef broth or water
• Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• Bay leaves
• Black peppercorns

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients – Rinse the corned beef and pat dry. Peel and chop the vegetables.
2. Layer in Crockpot – Place onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker. Set the corned beef on top.
3. Add Seasonings – Sprinkle the seasoning packet over the beef. Add bay leaves and black peppercorns.
4. Pour in Liquid – Add enough beef broth or water to just cover the meat.
5. Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.
6. Add Cabbage – With 1-2 hours left, add cabbage wedges on top and continue cooking until softened.
7. Slice and Serve – Remove the corned beef, slice against the grain, and serve with the cooked vegetables and broth.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 10 hours

Variations

• Guinness Version – Replace some of the broth with Guinness beer for a deeper flavor.
• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Brown Sugar Glaze – Brush the corned beef with brown sugar and Dijon mustard before serving for a caramelized crust.
• Low-Carb Option – Omit the potatoes and add more cabbage and carrots.
• Oven Roasted – Instead of a slow cooker, roast in the oven at 325°F for 3-4 hours.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating – Reheat in a saucepan over low heat with some broth to keep it moist.
• Freezing – Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I cook this faster?

Yes, you can cook on high for 4-5 hours, but low and slow gives the best texture.

Do I need to rinse the corned beef before cooking?

Rinsing removes excess salt but is optional. Pat dry before placing in the slow cooker.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Corned beef is traditional, but brisket or a beef roast can work with similar seasonings.

Why is my corned beef tough?

It needs more time to cook! Cook longer on low for the best tenderness.

Should I trim the fat off the brisket?

Leave some fat on for flavor but remove excess if desired.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Try parsnips, turnips, or celery for extra variety.

How do I slice corned beef properly?

Always slice against the grain for the most tender bites.

What can I serve with corned beef and cabbage?

It pairs well with mustard, horseradish sauce, or Irish soda bread.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes, then quick release and add cabbage for 5 more minutes.

How do I prevent mushy vegetables?

Add the potatoes and carrots halfway through cooking for firmer texture.

Conclusion

Crockpot Corned Beef and Cabbage is the ultimate comfort meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or craving a hearty dish, this slow-cooked classic is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal!

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