Name: Corned Beef and Cabbage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3½–4 pounds corned beef brisket flat cut (with spice packet); 3 cups beef broth; 3 tablespoons light brown sugar; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound baby potatoes; 5–6 carrots, cut into 2-inch segments; ½ cabbage, cut into large wedges (about 3 cups); 1 onion, peeled and cut into wedges

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This Corned Beef and Cabbage recipe is a comforting, all-in-one slow cooker meal that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. Featuring tender, flavorful brisket cooked with baby potatoes, carrots, onion, and cabbage, this classic dish is perfect for any cozy dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker version simplifies the traditional corned beef and cabbage recipe without sacrificing flavor. Cooking everything in one pot saves time and cleanup, while the beef broth and spice packet infuse the meat and veggies with deep, savory taste. The result is fall-apart tender corned beef and perfectly cooked vegetables—great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Corned Beef and Cabbage

Ingredients

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

3½ to 4 pounds corned beef brisket (flat cut, with spice packet)
3 cups beef broth
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 pound baby potatoes
5–6 carrots, cut into 2-inch segments
½ head of cabbage, cut into large wedges (about 3 cups)
1 onion, peeled and cut into wedges

Directions

Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess salt. Discard packaging but save the spice packet.
Place the brisket in a large (6 to 8-quart) slow cooker.
Pour in the beef broth, then sprinkle brown sugar, the included spice packet, and black pepper over the brisket.
Add the potatoes and carrots around the brisket. Press them down gently to submerge slightly in the broth.
Layer the onion and cabbage wedges on top.
Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the meat and vegetables are fork-tender.
Once done, remove the brisket to a cutting board and slice thinly against the grain.
Stir the vegetables gently into the broth, then return sliced beef to the pot for serving.
Scoop meat and vegetables together into bowls and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 to 10 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on HIGH or 8 hours on LOW
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (on HIGH)

Variations

Garlic Twist: Add a few cloves of crushed garlic to the broth for a richer flavor.
Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a subtle kick.
Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with turnips or rutabaga for fewer carbs.
Herbed Finish: Add a handful of fresh parsley or dill just before serving for a fresh herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store meat and vegetables together or separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap leftover corned beef tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating. (Vegetables are not ideal for freezing.)
Reheat: Warm beef and veggies separately in the microwave. Use short bursts (10 seconds for veggies, 20 seconds at 50% power for beef) until heated through.

FAQs

What cut of corned beef should I use?

Flat cut brisket is best for slicing and cooks evenly in a slow cooker.

Do I need to soak the corned beef before cooking?

No soaking is required, but rinsing helps reduce excess salt.

Can I cook the cabbage longer?

For softer cabbage, push it down into the broth earlier in the cooking time. For firmer cabbage, add it during the last hour.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer covered in a large Dutch oven for 3–4 hours until the meat is tender.

Is it better to cook corned beef on low or high in the slow cooker?

Low is preferred for more tender results, but high works if you’re short on time.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, parsnips, rutabaga, or turnips make great additions.

How do I keep the beef from getting dry?

Cook it low and slow, and slice against the grain to keep it tender.

Should the meat be fully submerged in liquid?

No, but it should be mostly covered. The steam and broth will cook everything evenly.

Can I use water instead of beef broth?

Yes, but beef broth adds extra flavor. You can also use a bouillon cube and water.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with mustard, horseradish sauce, crusty bread, or a side of Irish soda bread.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage is a classic, comforting meal made incredibly easy with the help of your slow cooker. With tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and minimal prep, it’s a reliable go-to for any time you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked dinner. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.