Slow Cooker Corned Beef & Cabbage
Description
This Slow Cooker Corned Beef & Cabbage is a classic, hearty comfort dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Tender, flavorful corned beef is slow-cooked with cabbage, carrots, and potatoes in a savory broth infused with spices. The result is melt-in-your-mouth meat and perfectly cooked vegetables—perfect for a cozy family meal or holiday tradition.
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 4 cups water or beef broth
- 1 lb baby potatoes (halved)
- 3–4 carrots (cut into chunks)
- 1 small cabbage (cut into wedges)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 2 cloves garlic (optional)
- 1 tbsp mustard (optional for flavor boost)
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
- Place potatoes, carrots, and onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add Corned Beef
- Rinse brisket lightly (optional to reduce saltiness).
- Place on top of vegetables, fat side up.
- Sprinkle spice packet over the meat.
3. Add Liquid
- Pour water or broth around the brisket (not directly over spices).
- Add garlic and mustard if using.
4. Cook
- Cover and cook:
- Low: 8–10 hours
- High: 4–5 hours
5. Add Cabbage
- Add cabbage wedges during the last 2 hours of cooking.
6. Serve
- Remove brisket, slice against the grain.
- Serve with vegetables and some broth.
Tips
- Slice against the grain for tender meat.
- Don’t overcook cabbage—it should be soft, not mushy.
- Use broth instead of water for richer flavor.
- Let meat rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Corned beef is naturally salty—adjust added salt carefully.
- Leftovers are great for sandwiches or hash.
- You can add bay leaves or extra spices for more depth.
Servings
- Serves: 6–8 people
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
Benefits
- High in protein and iron
- Provides fiber and vitamins from vegetables
- Great for family meals and gatherings
- One-pot meal = easy cleanup
Q&A
Q: Should I rinse corned beef before cooking?
A: Optional—it helps reduce saltiness but isn’t required.
Q: Can I cook it faster?
A: Yes, on high for 4–5 hours, but low and slow gives best texture.
Q: Why is my corned beef tough?
A: It needs more time—slow cooking breaks down tough fibers.
Q: Can I use red potatoes instead?
A: Absolutely! Any waxy potato works well.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
