Name: Corned Beef & Cabbage (Crockpot)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h 10 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2-4 lbs. corned beef brisket (flat or point cut), (with seasoning packet that is included); 1 white onion, sliced, (this is optional but good!); 2 lbs. red or gold potatoes, (or a mixture of both!) peel them if you'd like!; 3 carrots, sliced thick; 2 garlic cloves, peeled; 1/2 head cabbage, cut into thin wedges; 1 1/2 cup water, (or see notes below for other liquid ideas); parsley for garnish; melted butter for potatoes if desired; horseradish or stone-ground mustard

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Corned Beef & Cabbage is a classic dish that warms your soul on chilly days. This slow-cooked wonder melds tender beef with the hearty crunch of cabbage, sweet carrots, and buttery potatoes, resulting in a meal that feels like a warm hug. Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the rich aroma of spices and savory goodness wafting from your crockpot. The best part? It requires minimal hands-on time. Just prep, set, and forget, letting your Crockpot do all the hard work!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Corned Beef & Cabbage (Crockpot)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Corned Beef & Cabbage (Crockpot)

I vividly recall the first time I made this dish myself. It was a cozy Sunday in March, and I wanted something that would fill the house with comfort and nostalgia. I found that this Corned Beef & Cabbage (Crockpot) recipe turned my kitchen into a heartwarming scene reminiscent of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply craving a comforting meal, you’ll find this dish is not only easy to make but also delightful to savor. I can’t wait for you to try this!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 10 minutes to prep, and it cooks while you go about your day!
Irresistible Flavor: The tender corned beef and vegetables soak up all the savory, spiced goodness.
Eye-Catching Appeal: A colorful plate that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, and it even tastes better the next day!
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, fitting for many dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2-4 lbs. corned beef brisket: This cut is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful during the slow cooking. Look for a flat or point cut with a seasoning packet for that perfect kick.
1 white onion, sliced (optional): Adds an aromatic base for your dish, enhancing the flavor of the beef. You can omit it if you prefer a simpler taste.
2 lbs. red or gold potatoes: These hold their shape well and contribute a creamy texture; peel them if you want a smoother bite!
3 carrots, sliced thick: Their natural sweetness balances the flavors beautifully, making each bite more delightful.
2 garlic cloves, peeled: Infuses the dish with a warm, fragrant aroma that complements the meat.
1/2 head cabbage, cut into thin wedges: Adds a hearty crunch and soaks up the flavor from the broth.
1 1/2 cups water: Keeps the cooking process moist; you can also use beef broth for more richness.
Parsley for garnish: A fresh touch right before serving elevates the dish visually and adds a splash of color.
Melted butter for potatoes (if desired): Drizzling butter makes the potatoes decadent—an absolute must for butter lovers!
Horseradish or stone-ground mustard: These zesty condiments are perfect for dipping alongside your meal.

How to Make Corned Beef & Cabbage (Crockpot)

Add Onion: Begin by layering the sliced white onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. This forms a flavorful foundation for your dish, as the onion softens and caramelizes during cooking.

Prepare Corned Beef: Rinse the 2-4 lbs. corned beef brisket under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in the slow cooker and sprinkle the seasoning packet evenly over the top. This step ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor!

Layer Potatoes: Next, add the baby potatoes on top of the seasoned corned beef. If using larger potatoes, it’s a good idea to halve them for quicker cooking. Arrange the thickly sliced carrots and peeled garlic around the beef for a balanced cook.

Pour in Water and Cabbage: Carefully pour 1 1/2 cups of water into the slow cooker. If you want ultra-tender cabbage, add the 1/2 head of cabbage now. However, for crunchier cabbage, wait and add it during the last two hours of cooking.

Cover and Cook: Pop the lid onto your slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 5 hours or LOW for 8 hours in total. Just a little tip—be prepared to arrange the ingredients if your pot is full or cut your cabbage thinner to fit!

Rest and Slice Meat: Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps retain the juices when you slice it against the grain.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate your sliced corned beef alongside the tender potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle some melted butter over the potatoes. Serve with horseradish or stone-ground mustard for that extra bite!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the corned beef and veggies cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it out for easy reheating later. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, keeping an eye on the texture since it can become a bit softer after freezing.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid submerged cabbage too early, as it can become overly mushy. Try adding it in the last two hours for a nice texture.
Ensure your corned beef is properly rinsed to reduce excess saltiness before cooking.
If you prefer a deeper flavor, substitute the water with beef broth to enhance richness.
For added flavor, consider searing the beef in a pan before placing it in the slow cooker; this adds a lovely caramelization.

When you give this recipe a try, feel free to play around with your favorite root vegetables!

Corned Beef & Cabbage in the crockpot not only delivers on taste, but it also brings about a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Remember, food is about bringing people together, over hearty meals enjoyed at the table. I hope you dive into this delightful experience and enjoy every bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While corned beef brisket is traditional, you can use a round roast for a leaner option. Just ensure it has some fat for flavor. Adjust cooking times as necessary.

What can I serve with this dish?

Corned Beef & Cabbage pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or hearty rolls. For a lighter option, a simple green salad adds a refreshing crunch.

How do I know when the corned beef is done?

The beef should be fork-tender and easily shred when it’s done. An internal temperature of 190°F ensures it’s perfectly cooked.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! Corned Beef & Cabbage can be prepared a day or two ahead. Store in the fridge, and simply reheat when ready to serve. Flavors always deepen with time, making it taste even better!