Corned beef is known for being a delicious
comfort food recipe often enjoyed on St. Patrick’s Day, but unfortunately, it’s also known for taking what can feel like FOREVER to make. Many recipes require that you check on it every half hour or so to make sure your meat stays completely submerged throughout the cooking process. If you don’t have that kind of time or energy in the kitchen, we get it—this slow-cooker recipe is for you! This hands-off recipe requires a fair bit of time, but is almost completely hands-off. With minimal effort, you’ll have a cozy main + sides ready to feast on for St. Patrick’s Day and beyond. Here’s everything you need to know:
What is corned beef?
Corned beef is technically just referencing a type of preparation that could be applied to a number of cuts of beef that benefit from long cook times, but the cut that provides the perfect balance of rich flavor from fat and tender lean meat has to be brisket. “Corning” refers to curing the beef in a salt solution which results in an extremely flavorful, tender brisket.
How to make corned beef in the slow cooker:
— Add enough liquid. We recommend adding enough liquid to almost completely cover the meat, but not quite. You want it to be close to submerged, but you don’t need it to be covered completely.
— How long does it take to cook corned beef in the slow cooker? This slow-cooker version CAN be done in 4 to 4 ½ hours on high, but is really best cooked low and slow for 9 to 10 hours. We recommend getting the meat and potatoes in there early in the morning, and then adding cabbage right as you’re getting ready for dinner. You’ll have 45 minutes to an hour free while the cabbage cooks, just enough time to make some Irish side dishes or dessert.
— In a pinch? If you’re in a rush, checkout our Instant Pot corned beef recipe.
Serving ideas for slow-cooker corned beef:
This dish comes complete with onions, celery, carrots, cabbage, and potatoes, making it a complete and filling meal. That being said, if you’re looking for even more pairing ideas, we recommend serving this dish alongside some creamy mashed potatoes or roasted parsnips.
Storage and leftover ideas:
Got leftovers? This will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 4 months. Looking for leftover inspo? Checkout our favorite corned beef leftover ideas (our go-to is making reuben sandwiches).
Made this yet? Let us know how it went in the comments below.