Slow Cooker Corned Beef

There’s something about the smell of a meal simmering all day that really gets my stomach rumbling. I’ll never forget the first time I made Slow Cooker Corned Beef. The warmth of the kitchen, the rich aroma of tender meat and fresh vegetables filling the air—it was a perfect reminder of cozy family dinners. This recipe is not just about great taste; it embodies comfort, tradition, and an easy way to prepare a hearty meal without fuss. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy the day while it transforms simple ingredients into an inviting feast.

What is Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Slow Cooker Corned Beef is a savory dish that features corned beef brisket, simmered with vegetables and spices in a slow cooker. Traditionally enjoyed as part of Irish cuisine, especially during festive occasions like St. Patrick’s Day, this dish has become a beloved staple for many families. Cooking corned beef in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the brisket becomes incredibly tender. The low and slow method keeps the meat juicy and bursting with flavor, making it a delightful meal option any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Corned Beef:

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with this recipe:

• Quick and simple to prepare: Just layer your ingredients, and let the slow cooker do the rest.
• Family-friendly meal: It’s a dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
• Great for beginners: If you’re new to cooking, this recipe is an easy and rewarding choice.
• Perfect for gatherings: With minimal effort, you can feed a crowd.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as is or use leftovers in sandwiches, salads, or hash.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Slow Cooker Corned Beef, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 pounds corned beef brisket
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
• 1 bay leaf

Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Start by preparing your vegetables. Place the quartered onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. This layer of vegetables will soak up the flavors as the dish cooks. Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt and place it directly on top of the vegetables. Next, pour in the beef broth, ensuring the brisket is well-covered. Sprinkle the black peppercorns and mustard seeds over the brisket, then add the bay leaf for extra flavor.

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, depending on your schedule. When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. Serve the corned beef alongside the vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips and Variations:

To enhance your Slow Cooker Corned Beef experience, consider these pro tips and variations:

• Add additional spices: Some people enjoy adding a few cloves or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor kick.
• Use different vegetables: Feel free to swap out the potatoes and carrots for other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes.
• Make it spicy: If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the mix.
• Try different mustards: Serve the cooked corned beef with various mustards or a tangy horseradish sauce to complement the flavors.
• Perfect for leftovers: Use any leftover corned beef for sandwiches, salads, or hash for breakfast the next day.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Serving Slow Cooker Corned Beef can be a delightful experience. Plate slices of the tender brisket alongside the cooked vegetables for a visually appealing meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or Irish soda bread, allowing you to mop up the delicious broth. For a heartier option, serve the corned beef on sandwiches piled high with mustard and pickles. A fresh green salad or coleslaw on the side can also add a refreshing crunch to balance the dish’s richness.

How to Store Slow Cooker Corned Beef

To store leftovers of your Slow Cooker Corned Beef, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate any leftovers and consume them within 3-4 days for the best flavor. If you want to keep it for longer, the corned beef can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To retain the juicy texture, reheat the corned beef gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to ensure it stays moist.

Nutrition Information

While the exact nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, here’s a general idea for one serving of Slow Cooker Corned Beef:

• Calories: Approximately 350-400
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Fiber: 3-4g

This dish provides a rich source of protein and essential vitamins from the vegetables, making it a fulfilling choice for any meal.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Corned Beef

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use brisket or another cut like a chuck roast, but cooking times may vary.

2. What if I don’t have mustard seeds?
If you don’t have mustard seeds, you can substitute them with a teaspoon of prepared mustard for some added flavor.

3. How do I know when the corned beef is done?
The corned beef is done when it reaches an internal temperature of at least 190°F, making it tender enough to slice easily.

4. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your slow cooker has enough capacity to hold the extra ingredients.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to create this rich and flavorful Slow Cooker Corned Beef, it’s time to give it a try. This recipe’s simplicity and heartwarming flavors make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I encourage you to whip up this dish, enjoy the delightful aromas, and most importantly, share your cooking experience. You might just find a new family favorite on your hands!

Slow Cooker Corned Beef

A savory dish featuring corned beef brisket, simmered with vegetables and spices in a slow cooker, perfect for cozy family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 hours hrs

Total Time 10 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Irish

Calories: 375

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Corned Beef

• 4 pounds corned beef brisket
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
• 1 bay leaf

Method

 

Preparation

1. Place the quartered onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt and place it directly on top of the vegetables.
3. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the brisket is well-covered.
4. Sprinkle the black peppercorns and mustard seeds over the brisket, then add the bay leaf.

Cooking

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours.
2. When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Serve the corned beef alongside the vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Consider adding additional spices like cloves or Worcestershire sauce. You can use different root vegetables or try serving with various mustards or horseradish sauce.