Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, Slow Cooker Corned Beef is the ultimate comfort dish that transforms a humble cut of beef into a festive centerpiece. Simmered low and slow with carrots, potatoes, and cabbage, it becomes fall-apart tender and rich with savory, spiced flavors. Whether for St. Patrick’s Day or a cozy weekend meal, this dish never fails to impress.

What makes this recipe a household favorite is its simplicity. You let the slow cooker do all the work while you get on with your day. By dinnertime, you’re rewarded with succulent slices of corned beef surrounded by buttery vegetables, all infused with the aromatic broth. It’s comfort food at its easiest.

What Kind of Corned Beef Should I Use?

Flat cut or point cut? Flat cut is leaner and slices beautifully, making it great for presentation. Point cut has more marbling, which means extra juiciness and flavor but a less uniform shape. Either works here—just choose based on your preference.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Corned beef brisket (with spice packet): The star of the dish, providing the classic salty, spiced flavor.
Carrots: Add sweetness and balance to the savory meat.
Baby potatoes: Become tender and soak up the delicious cooking juices.
Green cabbage: Softens and mellows, adding a classic touch.
Yellow onion: Builds a flavorful base in the broth.
Garlic cloves: Infuse subtle aroma and depth.
Beef broth or water: Keeps everything moist and flavorful.
Bay leaves and peppercorns: Enhance the traditional spiced notes.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Peel and chop the carrots, halve the baby potatoes, and slice the onion. Layer them at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful bed for the meat.

Step 2: Add the Corned Beef

Place the corned beef brisket on top of the vegetables, fat side up. Sprinkle over the included spice packet (or your own mix of pickling spices).

Step 3: Pour in the Liquid

Pour in enough beef broth or water to almost cover the meat. Add bay leaves, peppercorns, and garlic cloves. This will keep the meat moist and flavorful as it cooks.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The meat should be tender enough to pull apart with a fork.

Step 5: Add the Cabbage

About an hour before serving, tuck the cabbage wedges into the slow cooker. Let them soften and soak up the flavorful broth without overcooking.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Transfer the corned beef to a cutting board, slice against the grain, and arrange on a platter with the vegetables. Spoon some of the broth over the top for extra juiciness.

Serving and Storing Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Serve the corned beef warm, paired with the tender carrots, potatoes, and cabbage. A drizzle of the savory cooking liquid ties it all together. Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches or hash the next day.

To store, let everything cool completely, then refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. You can also freeze sliced corned beef for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep corned beef from getting tough?

Cook it low and slow! The long cooking time at a gentle heat breaks down the connective tissue, making the meat tender.

Can I use beer instead of broth?

Yes! Adding beer, especially a stout, gives the broth a rich, malty depth. Combine it with broth or water for balance.

Should I rinse the corned beef before cooking?

It’s optional. Rinsing removes some of the salt, so if you prefer a less salty dish, give it a quick rinse.

What’s the best way to slice corned beef?

Always slice against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers and gives you tender, easy-to-chew pieces.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook the corned beef a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat it gently in the slow cooker or oven before serving.

Want More Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup, a rustic and satisfying option packed with beans and veggies. Or check out the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a comforting, cheesy meal.

For a cozy slow cooker dish, the Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese never disappoints. If you’re in the mood for something spicier, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe is a crowd-pleasing twist on classic lasagna.

Or explore the Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower for a crunchy, vegetarian side that pairs beautifully with any dinner.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add Guinness to the broth? Did you use point cut or flat cut? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 26 minute
Yield: Serves 6-8

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Description

A tender, flavorful corned beef cooked low and slow with carrots, potatoes, and cabbage, perfect for a cozy dinner or festive celebration. Simple to prepare, deeply satisfying to eat.