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Corned Beef and Cabbage (stovetop or Slow Cooker)

Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutesServes: 8Difficulty: Advanced
Corned Beef and Cabbage (stovetop or Slow Cooker) recipe image

Corned Beef and Cabbage (stovetop or Slow Cooker) cooks seasoned protein until browned outside and tender in the center.

Provided by Chef Katy

Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours 45 minutes

Resting Time 15 minutes

Yield 8

Number of Ingredients 8

About This Recipe

Corned Beef and Cabbage (stovetop or Slow Cooker) needs good browning and a gentle finish so the center stays tender.

Let the protein rest briefly when needed so it slices or serves cleanly.

Ingredients

  • 2 to 3 pounds corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
  • 4 cups Guinness beer (or beef broth)
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 pounds red baby potatoes
  • 2 pounds baby carrots
  • 1 head green cabbage (cut into wedges)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Notes

  • Protein: Choose pieces that are similar in size.
  • Seasoning: Rub or sprinkle seasoning evenly on all sides.
  • Browning: Use enough heat to develop color without burning.
  • Resting: Rest briefly so juices settle.

Instructions

  1. 1

    Remove 2 to 3 pounds corned beef brisket from the packaging, reserving the spice packet, and place it into a large 4 to 8-quart pot with a lid. Pour 4 cups Guinness beer (or beef broth) over the brisket until covered. Add 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce and sprinkle the spice packet over the meat.

  2. 2

    Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover with the lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 50 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 195–205°F, or until a fork slides in easily, and the meat starts to pull apart when gently prodded. Be sure to monitor the liquids in your pot. If too much evaporation occurs and the liquid is running low, simply add more liquid

  3. 3

    Add 2 pounds red baby potatoes, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until they begin to soften.

  4. 4

    Add 2 pounds baby carrots. Cut 1 head green cabbage into wedges and add. Season the vegetables with 1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cover and continue cooking for another 15 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes and carrots.

  5. 5

    Remove the meat from the pot and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing against the grain or shredding. Serve with vegetables and as much or as little cooking liquid as desired. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Katy’s Kitchen Note: Let cooked meat rest briefly before slicing or serving.

Katy’s Kitchen Tips

  • Use similar-size pieces for even cooking.
  • Preheat the pan, oven, grill, or smoker.
  • Brown well before adding sauces or liquid.
  • Rest briefly before slicing.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Herb finish: Add parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or chives.
  • Spicier version: Increase chili, cayenne, black pepper, or hot sauce.
  • Saucy version: Serve with gravy, salsa, pan sauce, or yogurt sauce.
  • Meal prep: Use leftovers in bowls, wraps, salads, or sandwiches.

What to Serve With Corned Beef and Cabbage (stovetop or Slow Cooker)

Serve Corned Beef and Cabbage (stovetop or Slow Cooker) with roasted vegetables, salad, potatoes, rice, beans, or warm bread.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.

Reheat gently so the center stays tender and the sauce does not dry out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcooking: Protein can dry out when cooked too long.
  • Uneven pieces: Different sizes finish at different times.
  • Skipping rest time: Resting keeps the center juicier.
  • Crowding: Crowding traps steam and slows browning.

FAQ

Can I make Corned Beef and Cabbage (stovetop or Slow Cooker) ahead?

Yes. Prep or cook ahead, then reheat gently or finish close to serving.

How do I know it is done?

Use the time range plus a thermometer or the doneness sign in the method.

Can I change the seasoning?

Yes. Adjust herbs, spices, heat, or sauce to match your meal.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers airtight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 61 mg
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Sodium: 1744 mg
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g