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Slow-Cooker-Corned-Beef-and-Cabbage-

The Easiest Corned Beef and Cabbage

A hearty, flavorful one-pot meal perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any family dinner. This slow cooker version makes preparation easy, delivering tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Irish-American
Calories: 799

Notes

Ingredients (with measurements)
For the Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage
  • 3 ½ lbs cured corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
  • 1 medium white onion, quartered
  • 2 cloves garlic, whole
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 ½ lbs new red potatoes, washed and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 1 medium green cabbage (about 1 ¼ lbs), cut into sixths
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • Whole-grain mustard (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef
  1. Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine.
  2. Place the beef in the slow cooker, fat side up.
  3. Sprinkle the included spice packet evenly over the top.
  4. Add the quartered onion and whole garlic cloves.
  5. Pour in 3 cups of water and cover.
  6. Cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4 hours).
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
  1. With 2 hours remaining (or 1 hour if using high), remove the corned beef and set it aside on a plate.
  2. Place potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  3. Return the corned beef on top of the potatoes.
  4. Nestle the cabbage and carrots around the beef.
  5. Cover and continue cooking for the remaining time.
Step 3: Slice and Serve
  1. When potatoes are tender and the brisket flakes easily, transfer the corned beef to a cutting board.
  2. Slice against the grain into ¼ to ½-inch thick pieces.
  3. Arrange on a serving platter with cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.
  4. Serve with a dollop of whole-grain mustard, and optionally return slices to the slow cooker to keep warm.
Storage and Reheating
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
  • Use leftover corned beef for sandwiches classic Reuben-style works perfectly.
Tips for the Perfect Corned Beef
  • Timing matters: Potatoes and carrots can go in at the start, but cabbage should be added in the last hour to prevent mushiness.
  • Rinse the beef: Reduces excessive saltiness but is optional if you prefer a brinier flavor.
  • Add beer for depth: Substitute part or all of the water with a dark stout like Guinness for richer broth.
  • Low and slow: Slow cooking on low ensures tender, juicy meat every time.
Serving Suggestions
  • Serve this slow cooker corned beef and cabbage with whole-grain mustard, or enjoy leftovers in sandwiches. Pair with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. This dish is hearty, comforting, and satisfying for any occasion.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 799 kcal Carbohydrates: 33 g Protein: 72 g Fat: 43 g Cholesterol: 241 mg Sodium: 160 mg Potassium: 1452 mg Fiber: 6 g Sugar: 7 g Calcium: 114 mg Iron: 7 mg
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