Easy Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Corned Beef Packets
Enjoy tender, flavorful corned beef with minimal effort using this easy slow cooker recipe! Individual foil packets steam to perfection, making cleanup simple and every serving juicy and delicious. Perfect for busy families or a hassle-free weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hands-off cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work.
Perfectly tender corned beef: Steamed inside foil packets for maximum flavor.
Healthy and hearty: Includes potatoes, carrots, and cabbage for a balanced meal.
Easy prep: Only 5 ingredients and minimal cleanup.
Family-friendly: Feeds 6 with flavorful, comforting portions.
Ingredients (Servings: 6)
3 pounds corned beef brisket with seasoning packet, cut into 6 pieces
1 ½ pounds small red potatoes, scrubbed and halved
4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 6 wedges (plus extra leaves for garnish, optional)
1 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
Instructions:
Prepare foil packets: Lay out 6 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (12×18 inches). Double-layer if using regular foil. Crimp edges slightly to form shallow trays.
Assemble ingredients: Place potatoes and carrots in the center of each sheet. Top with a portion of corned beef, sprinkle with seasoning packet, and add a wedge of cabbage. Optional: use a large cabbage leaf as a base for a prettier presentation.
Add moisture: Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons of beef broth or water over each packet to create steam.
Seal packets: Fold long sides over the ingredients, then fold short ends to create a snug seal, keeping steam trapped inside.
Cook: Pour any remaining broth into a large slow cooker. Arrange packets seam-side up. Cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours until meat is tender and vegetables are soft.
Serve: Carefully open packets at the table to keep aroma and juices inside. Spoon juices over meat and vegetables. Serve with bread, rye, or a simple green salad. Optional: add grainy mustard for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations:
Add more veggies: Include onions, parsnips, or turnips. Adjust quantity so packets close easily.
Milder flavor: Rinse corned beef before cooking to reduce saltiness.
Skip seasoning packet: Use dried thyme or a bay leaf instead.
Make ahead: Assemble packets up to a day in advance; refrigerate and cook the next day.
Crispy edges: After cooking, broil the corned beef briefly for caramelized edges while keeping vegetables moist in foil.
Storage & reheating: Leftovers refrigerate or freeze well. Reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through.
Benefits of Slow Cooker Corned Beef Packets
Locks in nutrients from vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.
Reduces added fats and oils by steaming in foil.
Saves time while creating a comforting, hearty meal.
Minimal cleanup perfect for busy households or family dinners.
