Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it work its magic, freeing up your time for other activities.
- Flavorful and Tender: Slow cooking ensures the corned beef becomes tender and infused with rich flavors, while the vegetables absorb the savory broth.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This hearty meal is ideal for family dinners or special occasions like St. Patrick’s Day.
Ingredients
- 10 baby red potatoes, quartered
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into matchstick pieces
- 1 onion, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups water
- 1 (4-pound) corned beef brisket with spice packet
- 6 ounces soda
- ½ head cabbage, coarsely chopped
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Place the quartered potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped onion into the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add Liquid: Pour in 4 cups of water over the vegetables.
- Place the Corned Beef: Set the corned beef brisket on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the contents of the spice packet over the brisket.
- Add Soda: Pour the soda over the brisket to enhance the flavor.
- Initial Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and cook on High for 7 hours.
- Add Cabbage: After 7 hours, add the coarsely chopped cabbage to the slow cooker.
- Final Cooking: Cover and continue cooking for an additional hour, until the cabbage is tender and the meat is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the corned beef and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve alongside the cooked vegetables and cabbage.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours and 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicier Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Garlic Lovers: Include a few cloves of minced garlic for added depth of flavor.
- Extra Herbs: Try adding thyme, bay leaves, or parsley for an herbal touch.
- Vegetable Boost: Add parsnips, turnips, or leeks for a heartier vegetable mix.
- Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium broth instead of water to control salt levels.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Corned beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store the meat separately from the vegetables for best results.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave or reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.
FAQs
How do I know when the corned beef is done?
The corned beef should be fork-tender and reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Can I cook this on low instead of high?
Yes, cook on Low for about 10-12 hours for a slower, more tender result.
What type of soda should I use?
A lightly sweetened dark soda works best for balancing the flavors.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can simmer everything in a large pot on the stovetop for about 3-4 hours.
Should I rinse the corned beef before cooking?
Rinsing removes excess salt from the curing process, but it’s optional.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Root vegetables like parsnips or turnips work well.
How do I slice corned beef properly?
Always slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables and store them in the fridge overnight.
Why is my corned beef tough?
If it’s tough, it likely needs more cooking time. Keep it in the slow cooker until it softens.
Does this recipe work with a different cut of beef?
Brisket is traditional, but you can also use chuck roast or round roast.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage is a delicious, hands-off way to enjoy a comforting and hearty meal. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers incredible flavor and tenderness with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal with your loved ones!
PrintSlow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring tender corned beef brisket, hearty vegetables, and flavorful cabbage. This classic recipe is perfect for family gatherings or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring a rich, savory taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 10 baby red potatoes, quartered
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into matchstick pieces
- 1 onion, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups water
- 1 (4-pound) corned beef brisket with spice packet
- 6 ounces soda (dark, lightly sweetened)
- ½ head cabbage, coarsely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables – Place quartered potatoes, carrots, and onion into the slow cooker.
- Add Liquid – Pour in 4 cups of water over the vegetables.
- Place the Corned Beef – Set the corned beef brisket on top of the vegetables and sprinkle the spice packet over it.
- Add Soda – Pour soda over the brisket for extra flavor.
- Initial Cooking – Cover and cook on High for 7 hours.
- Add Cabbage – After 7 hours, add the chopped cabbage.
- Final Cooking – Cover and cook for 1 more hour, until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve – Remove the corned beef, let it rest, then slice against the grain. Serve with vegetables and cabbage.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- To enhance flavor, include garlic cloves, thyme, bay leaves, or parsley.
- If using low-sodium broth instead of water, adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Slice against the grain for the most tender beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Slow Cooker