Crispy Slow Cooker Corned Beef
This crispy slow cooker corned beef recipe delivers fall-apart tenderness with a golden, caramelized crust. Minimal ingredients and hands-off cooking make it perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Serve it sliced with potatoes, cabbage, or on rye bread for an unforgettable meal.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Baking Sheet
- Oven Broiler
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lb corned beef brisket flat cut preferred, with spice packet
- 1/4 cup brown sugar for broiling crust
- 3 cups water or beef broth enough to partially cover meat
Instructions
- Place corned beef brisket into the slow cooker, fat side up. Add the included spice packet. Pour in just enough water or broth to mostly cover the meat.
- Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours, until the beef is fork-tender but still sliceable.
- Preheat oven broiler. Transfer the cooked brisket to a foil-lined baking sheet. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the brisket, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Broil for 3–5 minutes, watching closely, until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Do not overcook.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice across the grain and serve.
Notes
For added flavor, place sliced onions or garlic cloves in the slow cooker under the brisket. Add cabbage wedges in the final two hours if desired. Save the cooking liquid for reheating leftovers or pouring over vegetables.