This hearty Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage is super simple and packed with flavor. Just let your slow cooker do the work while the meat becomes tender and the veggies soak up all that tasty broth!
I love how easy it is to make—just toss everything in and forget about it! Plus, it’s the perfect meal for busy days. You’ll have a delicious dinner waiting for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: This is the star of the dish! Look for a brisket that feels firm and has a red hue. If you’re unable to find corned beef, you can use a brisket cut and season it with pickling spices for a similar flavor.
Onion and Garlic: These add depth and richness to the dish. If you’re not a fan of onion, shallots could be a milder alternative. Garlic powder works well too if you’re low on fresh garlic.
Beef Broth: Broth enhances the beef’s flavor beautifully. You can substitute chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter taste. Homemade broth brings extra depth, but store-bought works fine!
Cabbage: A small head of green cabbage is standard, but you could also try Savoy or Napa cabbage for a different texture. If you want a twist, kale can be an interesting substitute.
Mustard Seeds and Peppercorns: These spices add great flavor. If they’re not on hand, ground mustard and black pepper can substitute, though the texture will change a bit. Experiment with other whole spices like coriander seeds for variety!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Tender Corned Beef?
The key to tender corned beef is low and slow cooking. Using a slow cooker allows the meat to break down gently, resulting in a tender consistency. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with the brisket at the bottom of the slow cooker to let all the juices soak in.
- Don’t rush it—cook it on low for 8 to 9 hours. High heat can dry out the meat.
- Adding veggies later, like carrots and cabbage, keeps them from becoming too mushy.
- Let the meat rest after cooking for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices!
How to Make Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds corned beef brisket
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon allspice berries
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Vegetables:
- 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered
Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal comes together in about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 8 to 9 hours of slow cooking. You’ll have tender, flavorful corned beef and veggies ready to serve for dinner, with minimal effort on your part!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by placing the corned beef brisket in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top it with the quartered onion and minced garlic. These aromatics will make your dish extra tasty!
2. Add the Broth and Spices:
Pour the beef broth over the brisket, making sure it’s nicely covered. Then add the mustard seeds, black peppercorns, allspice berries, thyme, and bay leaf. All these spices will infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks!
3. Slow Cook the Brisket:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 to 9 hours. This slow cooking will make the meat tender and delicious. Just let it work its magic!
4. Add the Carrots and Potatoes:
About 2 hours before you’re ready to eat, add the peeled and cut carrots and halved or quartered baby potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine them with the meat and broth.
5. Add the Cabbage:
One hour before serving, place the cabbage wedges on top of the meat and veggies. Cover again and let it cook until the cabbage is tender.
6. Slice the Corned Beef:
Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps hold in the juices. Then, slice the meat against the grain into thick pieces.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Arrange the sliced corned beef around the vegetables on a serving platter. Pour a little of the cooking liquid over the meat and veggies for extra flavor. Finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley to make it look lovely!
8. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve hot and enjoy your hearty and comforting slow cooker corned beef and cabbage with your family and friends. It’s a meal that brings everyone together!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While corned beef brisket is traditional, you can use other cuts like corned beef round or even a pork shoulder for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat, ensuring it’s tender when done.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, you can customize the veggies! Consider adding parsnips, turnips, or even green beans. Just remember to adjust the cooking times if necessary; add delicate veggies like green beans closer to the end of the cooking time to prevent mushiness.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the corned beef and vegetables in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What Should I Serve with Corned Beef and Cabbage?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mustard, horseradish, or a side of crusty bread. For a complete meal, you might also serve it with a light salad or some Irish soda bread for a festive touch!
