Classic Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage

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February 12, 2026

Thereโ€™s nothing like the rich aroma of Classic Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage filling your kitchen. Tender beef, buttery potatoes, sweet carrots, and soft cabbage cook low and slow into a hearty, satisfying meal. This recipe keeps things simple and delivers bold flavor every time.


Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

  • Set it and let it cook
  • Tender, sliceable corned beef
  • One-pot hearty dinner
  • Simple pantry ingredients
  • Perfect for Sunday supper or St. Patrickโ€™s Day

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8โ€“10 hours (low)
  • Total Time: About 8 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3โ€“4 lb corned beef brisket with spice packet
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth (or water)
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  • 4 carrots, cut into chunks
  • 1 small yellow onion, quartered
  • 1 small head green cabbage, cut into wedges
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 bay leaf

Optional swap: Use red potatoes instead of baby potatoes.


Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt.
  2. Place onion, garlic, and bay leaf in the slow cooker.
  3. Set the corned beef on top and sprinkle the spice packet over it.
  4. Pour broth over the meat until it almost covers it.
  5. Add potatoes and carrots around the beef.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 8โ€“10 hours.
  7. Add cabbage during the last 1ยฝโ€“2 hours of cooking.
  8. Remove the meat, rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain.
  9. Serve hot with vegetables and broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with whole grain mustard or horseradish sauce. Pair with warm Irish soda bread or a crisp green salad. A cold sparkling cider balances the richness.


Quick Tips or Variations

  • Cook on low for the most tender texture.
  • Slice against the grain for clean cuts.
  • Add parsnips for extra sweetness.

Classic Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage FAQs

How long does it take to cook corned beef in a slow cooker?

Cook on low for 8โ€“10 hours or high for 4โ€“5 hours. Low heat gives the best texture.

Should corned beef be covered with water?

Yes. Cover it with broth or water to keep it moist and flavorful.

Do you rinse corned beef before cooking?

Yes. Rinse to remove excess brine and reduce saltiness.

When should I add cabbage?

Add cabbage during the last 1ยฝโ€“2 hours to keep it tender.

Conclusion

This Classic Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage recipe delivers dependable comfort with minimal effort. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a warm, hearty meal with family.

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Classic Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage


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  • Author: Laura Jennings
  • Total Time: 495 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Classic Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage made tender and flavorful with simple ingredients. A hearty comfort meal cooked low and slow.


Ingredients

Scale

3โ€“4 lb corned beef brisket with spice packet

4 cups low-sodium beef broth

1 lb baby potatoes, halved

4 carrots, cut into chunks

1 small yellow onion, quartered

1 small head green cabbage, cut into wedges

2 cloves garlic, smashed

1 bay leaf


Instructions

1. Rinse corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt.

2. Place onion, garlic, and bay leaf in the slow cooker.

3. Set corned beef on top and sprinkle spice packet over it.

4. Pour broth over the meat until almost covered.

5. Add potatoes and carrots around the beef.

6. Cover and cook on low for 480 minutes.

7. Add cabbage during the last 90โ€“120 minutes of cooking.

8. Remove beef, rest 10 minutes, slice against the grain, and serve.

Notes

Cook on low for the most tender texture.

Always slice against the grain.

Add cabbage near the end to prevent overcooking.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 480 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 980mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

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