Name: Slow Cooker Corned Beef & Cabbage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 3 lbs corned beef brisket with spice packet; 1 onion, peeled and cut into wedges; 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved; 1 head cabbage, cut into wedges; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon mustard seeds; 1 bay leaf

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Corned Beef & Cabbage Recipe

This recipe brings together all the classic flavors of corned beef and cabbage with minimal effort. Simply layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and let the appliance do all the work. The result is fall-apart tender corned beef, buttery potatoes, and sweet carrots, all infused with savory spices. It’s ideal for busy days, meal prepping, or celebrating special occasions with a traditional touch.

Ingredients

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

3 lbs corned beef brisket with spice packet
1 onion, peeled and cut into wedges
4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
1 head cabbage, cut into wedges
4 cups water
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 bay leaf

Directions

Place the onion, carrots, and potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Rinse the corned beef brisket and pat it dry. Place it on top of the vegetables.
Sprinkle the included spice packet over the corned beef.
Add the water, black pepper, mustard seeds, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
During the last hour of cooking, add the cabbage wedges to the slow cooker.
Once the corned beef is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve the sliced corned beef with the vegetables and a ladle of the flavorful cooking liquid.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Variations

Beer-Braised Version: Replace half of the water with a bottle of stout beer for a deeper, richer flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the potatoes or substitute them with cauliflower chunks.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the cooking liquid.
Garlic Lovers: Toss in a few crushed garlic cloves for extra aroma and depth.
Glazed Finish: After slow cooking, brush the corned beef with a brown sugar and mustard glaze, then broil for a few minutes for a crispy crust.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place portions in a covered dish and warm in the oven at 325°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until heated through. For freezing, wrap sliced corned beef tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when corned beef is done?

Corned beef is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds. An internal temperature of 195°F–205°F is ideal for optimal tenderness.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook on high for 4–5 hours, but cooking on low for 7–8 hours yields more tender results.

Do I need to rinse the corned beef before cooking?

Yes, rinsing helps remove excess salt from the brining solution, giving you better control over the dish’s saltiness.

What if my cabbage is too soft?

To keep cabbage from becoming too mushy, add it only during the last hour of cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cook it a day ahead, cool it completely, and refrigerate. Reheat before serving for a stress-free meal.

What’s in the corned beef spice packet?

Typical spice packets include mustard seeds, coriander, peppercorns, bay leaves, and crushed red pepper. You can also make your own if needed.

Can I use red potatoes instead of baby potatoes?

Yes, red potatoes work well. Just cut them into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your corned beef and any added liquids (like beer) are labeled gluten-free if needed.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Corned beef brisket is best for this dish. Other cuts like chuck roast won’t offer the same texture or flavor.

How should I slice the corned beef?

Always slice corned beef against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew slices.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Corned Beef & Cabbage is a timeless, comforting dish that’s incredibly simple to prepare yet full of flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just craving a warm, hearty meal, this recipe delivers satisfying results with minimal effort. With its tender meat and flavorful vegetables, it’s sure to become a staple in your seasonal rotation.