🥩 Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage

A classic comfort-food dish, Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage is tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Slow cooking allows the corned beef brisket to become melt-in-your-mouth soft while the vegetables absorb the savory, seasoned broth. This hearty one-pot meal is especially popular for St. Patrick’s Day but is perfect year-round for a satisfying family dinner.

📝 Full Recipe

⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes

⏲ Cook Time: 8–10 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)

🍽 Servings: 6 servings

🛒 Ingredients

• 3–4 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet)

• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth (or water)

• 1 lb baby potatoes (halved if large)

• 4 medium carrots (cut into chunks)

• 1 medium yellow onion (quartered)

• 1 small head green cabbage (cut into wedges)

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
   Place potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Add the Corned Beef
   Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess brine.
   Place it on top of the vegetables, fat side up.

3. Season and Add Liquid
   Sprinkle the spice packet over the brisket.
   Add bay leaves and mustard (if using).
   Pour beef broth around the meat (not directly washing off spices).

4. Cook

   • Cook on LOW for 8–10 hours (recommended for best tenderness), or

   • Cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours.

5. Add Cabbage
   During the last 2 hours (LOW) or last 1 hour (HIGH), add cabbage wedges.

6. Rest and Slice
   Remove corned beef and let rest 10–15 minutes.
   Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

7. Serve
   Serve with vegetables and ladle broth over top. Garnish with parsley.

📌 Description Notes

• Corned beef is salt-cured brisket, giving it a distinctive savory flavor.

• Cooking low and slow ensures fork-tender meat.

• Adding cabbage later prevents it from becoming mushy.

• Slicing against the grain is essential for tenderness.

💡 Tips for Best Results

✔ Choose a flat-cut brisket for easier slicing.
✔ Don’t skip resting time — it keeps juices inside the meat.
✔ Add cabbage later to avoid overcooking.
✔ For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar.
✔ Want crisp edges? Broil slices for 3–5 minutes after cooking.
✔ Store leftovers in broth to keep moist.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 480–550 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Fat: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sodium: 900–1200mg

• Iron: 15% DV

• Vitamin C: 35% DV

(Values vary based on cut and broth used.)

🌿 Health Benefits

• High Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and satiety.

• Iron-Rich: Helps prevent anemia.

• Vitamin C (from cabbage): Supports immunity.

• Potassium (from potatoes): Supports heart health.

• Collagen & Amino Acids: Beneficial for joint health.

Note: Corned beef is high in sodium; moderation is recommended for those monitoring salt intake.

❓ Q & A for Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage

Q1: Should I rinse corned beef before cooking?

Yes. Rinsing removes excess surface salt and prevents the dish from being overly salty.

Q2: Can I cook it without broth?

Yes, water works fine since the brisket releases flavorful juices.

Q3: Why is my corned beef tough?

It likely needs more cooking time. Corned beef becomes tender when cooked long enough.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It reheats very well and often tastes better the next day.

Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Freeze sliced meat with some broth for up to 3 months.

Q6: What can I serve with it?

Irish soda bread, mustard sauce, horseradish cream, or roasted vegetables.

🍀 Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage is a comforting, fuss-free meal packed with flavor. The slow cooking method ensures juicy meat and perfectly cooked vegetables every time. Whether for a holiday celebration or a cozy Sunday dinner, this classic dish never disappoints.