This Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage is a tasty and hearty dish! You’ll enjoy the tender beef, perfectly seasoned with spices, and fresh cabbage that cooks up quick and easy.
It’s a true one-pot wonder that makes dinner a breeze! I love how all the flavors blend together, making leftovers even better—if there are any! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: This is the star ingredient! Look for a brisket with a spice packet included for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using a lean cut like top round roast instead, but the traditional flavor won’t be as strong.
Beef Broth or Water: Beef broth adds extra richness. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth or just water, but you may want to enhance the flavor with some seasoning. For a richer taste, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Carrots: They add sweetness and color to the dish. You could substitute with parsnips for a different taste. Some people even like adding bell peppers for a twist!
Potatoes: I prefer Yukon gold for their creamy texture, or baby potatoes for convenience. If you can’t find them, try any waxy potato variety. Avoid starchy types like Russets, as they can become mushy.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is classic, but Savoy cabbage adds a lovely texture. You could skip it entirely or replace it with kale if you prefer something greener.
How Do I Ensure My Corned Beef Is Tender and Flavorful?
A key to a perfect Instant Pot corned beef is all about pressure cooking and resting time. Rinsing the corned beef helps reduce excess salt, enhancing flavor without overwhelming your dish.
- Rinse the brisket well before placing it in the pot.
- Cook first for 70 minutes on high pressure to make it tender.
- Let it rest after cooking! This helps the juices redistribute to keep the meat moist.
Don’t rush the natural pressure release time for the best texture. Patience here pays off! Slice against the grain to get tender pieces and enjoy it with mustard; it complements the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 lbs corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 4 cups beef broth or water
Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 3-4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes, whole or halved
- 1 small head of green cabbage, cut into wedges
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for sweetness)
- 1 tsp black peppercorns (if not included in spice packet)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Yellow mustard or grainy mustard (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 90 minutes in total. You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and cooking the corned beef will take around 70 minutes. After that, just a quick cook for the veggies, and you’ll only need a few more minutes for plating. It’s a simple and delicious meal, all in under two hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corned Beef:
Begin by rinsing the corned beef brisket under cold water to get rid of any excess brine. Pat it dry with a paper towel to ensure it’s ready to go. This step helps reduce the saltiness, making your dish tastier!
2. Set Up the Instant Pot:
Place a trivet or steamer rack inside the Instant Pot. Pour in the beef broth or water. This will help your corned beef cook evenly and keep it moist.
3. Add the Corned Beef:
Carefully place the rinsed corned beef on the trivet, with the fat side facing up. This allows the juices to self-baste during cooking. Sprinkle the spice packet and any black peppercorns over the top of the brisket for extra flavor.
4. Add Vegetables:
Scatter the quartered onion and smashed garlic cloves around the beef in the liquid. These add wonderful flavor while cooking!
5. Pressure Cook the Corned Beef:
Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 70 minutes. Don’t worry—the Instant Pot will take care of the rest!
6. Release the Pressure:
Once the cooking time is done, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. After that, use a quick release for any leftover pressure. Carefully open the lid when it’s safe to do so.
7. Add Carrots and Potatoes:
Now, add the carrots and potatoes around the beef in the pot. This is where your meal begins to come together! Carefully place the cabbage wedges right on top of the meat and vegetables.
8. Cook the Vegetables:
Close the lid again, seal the valve, and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes. This will cook the veggies to perfect tenderness!
9. Final Pressure Release:
After the timer goes off, perform another quick release to let out the steam. Carefully remove the beef and vegetables from the Instant Pot with tongs or a slotted spoon.
10. Rest and Slice the Corned Beef:
Let the corned beef rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Make sure to cut against the grain into ¼ inch slices for the best texture.
11. Serve It Up:
Arrange the sliced corned beef and the tasty veggies on a platter. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a lovely touch!
12. Enjoy with Mustard:
Serve your delicious corned beef and cabbage with a side of mustard for dipping. It adds just the right amount of zing to every bite!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful corned beef with perfectly cooked vegetables, all prepared quickly in your Instant Pot. Enjoy your lovely meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While corned beef brisket is traditional, you can also use a leaner cut like a top round roast. Just keep in mind that the flavor and tenderness might vary slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use a slow cooker or stovetop, you can adapt the cooking time. In a slow cooker, cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–5 hours. For stovetop, simmer in a heavy pot for about 2–3 hours until tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the corned beef for up to 3 months. Just slice it before freezing for easier portioning later!
What Should I Serve with Corned Beef and Cabbage?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mustard for dipping, but you can also serve it with traditional sides like Irish soda bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal!
