Slow Cooker Guinness Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe
Introduction
Slow Cooker Guinness Corned Beef and Cabbage is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. The tender corned beef slowly cooks in rich Guinness beer, infused with aromatic spices, and paired with hearty vegetables. This recipe makes a deliciously easy dinner with minimal effort.

Ingredients
- 2 1/2 lb. flat cut corned beef brisket
- 1 seasoning packet from the corned beef roast
- 12 oz. Guinness beer (preferably bottled extra stout)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 Yukon gold potatoes
- 4 carrots
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 head cabbage, cut into slices
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the corned beef and pat it dry. Place the corned beef into the slow cooker.
- Step 2: Sprinkle the seasoning packet and brown sugar evenly over the meat. Add the potatoes, carrots, garlic cloves, and bay leaf on top of the corned beef. Pour the Guinness beer over everything.
- Step 3: Cover with the lid and cook on low for 8 hours. Add the sliced cabbage at the 6-hour mark to cook for the remaining 2 hours. Alternatively, you can add the cabbage at the beginning or during the last 30 minutes, depending on your preferred texture.
- Step 4: When done, carefully remove the vegetables and then transfer the corned beef to a cutting board. Slice the beef and serve it alongside the cooked vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, brown the corned beef in a skillet before placing it in the slow cooker.
- Try using different stout beers if Guinness is unavailable, but stick to darker, richer options for the best taste.
- If you prefer softer cabbage, add it earlier in the cooking process; for crisper cabbage, add it later.
- Use red potatoes instead of Yukon gold for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the meat moist. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw thoroughly before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of beer for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other dark beers such as a stout or porter. These will provide a similar rich flavor that complements the corned beef well.
Do I have to add the cabbage during cooking?
While cabbage is traditional, you can add it at different times based on your preference. Adding it early results in softer cabbage, while adding it later keeps it firmer and more vibrant.
PrintSlow Cooker Guinness Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe
This Slow Cooker Guinness Corned Beef and Cabbage recipe delivers a tender, flavorful corned beef brisket infused with the rich taste of Guinness beer. Slow-cooked with potatoes, carrots, garlic, and cabbage, this hearty dish is a comforting classic perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any cozy meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 1/2 lb. flat cut corned beef brisket
- 1 seasoning packet from corned beef roast
Vegetables
- 8 Yukon gold potatoes
- 4 carrots
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 head cabbage, cut into slices
Liquids & Seasonings
- 12 oz. Guinness Beer (bottled extra stout recommended)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Prepare the Corned Beef: Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the corned beef into the slow cooker.
- Add Seasonings and Vegetables: Sprinkle the seasoning packet evenly over the corned beef. Add the brown sugar on top. Place the potatoes, carrots, garlic cloves, and bay leaf over the meat. Pour the Guinness beer over everything in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for a total of 8 hours. For best results, add the sliced cabbage at the 6-hour mark and cook for the remaining 2 hours. Alternatively, the cabbage can be added at the beginning or in the last 30 minutes, depending on your texture preference.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the vegetables and set aside. Transfer the corned beef to a cutting board and slice it against the grain. Serve the sliced corned beef alongside the cooked vegetables for a classic and hearty meal.
Notes
- Adding cabbage later in the cooking process preserves its texture and color.
- The Guinness beer adds a rich, deep flavor that complements the corned beef perfectly.
- Use Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture; russet potatoes can become too mushy.
- Leftovers taste great the next day and can be repurposed into sandwiches or hash.
Keywords: corned beef, Guinness, slow cooker, St. Patrick’s Day, Irish recipe, cabbage, potatoes, carrots

