Sweet heat meets classic comfort in this Spicy Brown Sugar Corned Beef and Cabbage. The brisket cooks low and slow until fork-tender, then finishes in the oven with a bold brown sugar glaze kissed with spice. The result is juicy beef with caramelized edges and perfectly tender cabbage on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and spicy caramelized glaze
• Tender, juicy brisket
• Easy slow cooker method
• Perfect balance of heat and sweetness
• Great for holidays or cozy dinners

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 480 minutes
• Total Time: 500 minutes

Ingredients

• 3–4 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

Spicy Brown Sugar Glaze

• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine.
2. Place onion in the slow cooker and set brisket on top.
3. Sprinkle spice packet over the meat.
4. Pour broth over brisket until nearly covered.
5. Add potatoes and carrots around the beef.
6. Cook Spicy Brown Sugar Corned Beef and Cabbage on low for 480 minutes.
7. Add cabbage during the last 90–120 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 400°F.
9. Mix glaze ingredients in a bowl.
10. Remove brisket, pat dry, and place on a baking sheet.
11. Spread glaze evenly over the top.
12. Bake for 15–20 minutes until caramelized.
13. Rest 10 minutes, slice against the grain, and serve with vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with extra glaze spooned over slices. Add roasted green beans or crusty bread. A cold sparkling cider balances the sweet heat.

Quick Tips or Variations

• Score the fat cap before glazing for deeper flavor.
• Add minced garlic to the glaze for extra punch.
• Broil briefly for darker caramelization.

Spicy Brown Sugar Corned Beef and Cabbage FAQs

Can you put brown sugar on corned beef?

Yes. Brown sugar caramelizes beautifully and balances the saltiness of the brisket.

How do you make corned beef spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or cayenne to the glaze for heat.

When should you add the glaze?

Add it after slow cooking, then bake for 15–20 minutes.

Should cabbage cook with glazed corned beef?

Yes. Cook cabbage in the broth while the brisket finishes in the oven.

Conclusion

This Spicy Brown Sugar Corned Beef and Cabbage delivers tender meat, bold glaze, and hearty vegetables in one comforting meal. Sweet, spicy, and satisfying, it’s a dinner worth sharing.

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