Best Recipe for Corned Beef and Cabbage

why make this recipe

Corned beef and cabbage is not just a classic dish; it’s perfect for family gatherings, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, or any cozy dinner. This meal is comforting and hearty, featuring tender corned beef paired with sweet, wilted cabbage and flavorful carrots. Cooking it in a crock pot enhances the flavors, making it even easier to enjoy. It’s a traditional recipe that brings everyone together around the table.

how to make Corned Beef and Cabbage

Ingredients

• 4 pounds corned beef brisket (flat or point cut, with spice packet*),
• 2 tablespoons oil (for searing),
• 1 & 1/2 cups beef broth,
• 3 tablespoons whole grain mustard,
• 6 cloves garlic (smashed and left whole),
• 1 large onion (sliced into wedges),
• 15-20 whole peppercorns (or fresh cracked pepper to taste),
• 8-10 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme),
• 2 bay leaves,
• 2 pounds carrots (peeled and quartered (8-10 carrots)),
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick),
• 1 large head green cabbage (sliced into wedges),
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt,
• 1 batch Roasted Red Potatoes (2 pounds red potatoes needed),
• 1 batch Horseradish Sauce (for serving),
• parsley and/or chives (to garnish).

Directions

1. Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat for at least 2 minutes. Open the package of corned beef and drain the brine into the sink. There’s no need to rinse the corned beef.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of oil to the hot skillet. Swirl to coat, then add the drained corned beef. Sear for 2-4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Carefully flip with tongs and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.
3. Place the seared corned beef in your crock pot, fat side up. Don’t put the skillet in the sink yet.
4. In a glass measuring cup, combine 1 and 1/2 cups of beef broth with 3 tablespoons of whole grain mustard. Pour this mixture into the pan you used to sear the beef. Let it bubble as you scrape up the browned bits.
5. Pour this liquid over the corned beef in the crock pot.
6. Smash the 6 cloves of garlic and add them to the crock pot. Add onion wedges, 15-20 whole peppercorns, fresh thyme (or dried thyme), and the bay leaves.
7. Sprinkle the spice packet over everything. Cover and cook on low for about 6-7 hours.
8. Peel the carrots and slice each carrot into thirds. Add them to the crock pot on top of the beef, cover again, and cook for another 1-2 hours.
9. For the cabbage, slice it in half and cut out the stem. Then slice into large wedges. Melt 1/2 cup butter in another skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cabbage and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Sauté, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until slightly wilted.
10. Add the cabbage to the crock pot on top of the carrots. Continue cooking on low for another 30-60 minutes until the cabbage is soft.
11. Meanwhile, make Roasted Red Potatoes in the oven. (Avoid putting them in the crock pot to prevent them from becoming mushy.)
12. To serve: Place corned beef on a large platter. Use a slotted spoon to remove cabbage to drain slightly. Add carrots and cabbage next to the corned beef on the platter. Slice the beef against the grain and add it to the platter. Garnish with parsley and/or chives.
13. Serve with homemade Horseradish Sauce and perhaps some Irish Soda Bread on the side.

Oven Instructions:

If using the oven instead of a crock pot, place the seared beef in a large roasting pan. Add broth, mustard, garlic, onion, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Cover with foil and roast at 300°F for about 3-4 hours. Add carrots and cabbage during the last hour of cooking.

how to serve Corned Beef and Cabbage

Serve the corned beef and cabbage hot on a large platter. It’s often accompanied by a side of Roasted Red Potatoes and homemade Horseradish Sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

how to store Corned Beef and Cabbage

Leftover corned beef and cabbage should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the corned beef for up to 2-3 months. Ensure to cool the dish completely before freezing.

tips to make Corned Beef and Cabbage

• Pick high-quality corned beef for the best flavor.
• Don’t miss searing the meat; it adds a lot of taste to the final dish.
• If you prefer softer cabbage, feel free to cook it longer.
• Adjust the seasoning and spices according to your taste preference.

variation

You can add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or turnips to the mix for added flavor. Some people like to use different mustards or spice mixes to change it up.

FAQs

Can I make this dish without a crock pot?
Yes! You can make it in the oven. Just follow the alternative oven instructions mentioned above.

How can I tell when the corned beef is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach about 190°F for tender meat.

Can I use leftover corned beef for other recipes?
Definitely! Leftover corned beef can be used in sandwiches, hash, or added to soups for extra flavor.