Corned beef is a superstar in the kitchen, and you can create some seriously tasty dishes with it! Think classic corned beef and cabbage, super comforting shepherd's pie, or even spicy corned beef sliders that'll wow your friends. If you've got leftovers, corned beef tacos and fried rice are deliciously fun twists. Don't forget about the iconic Reuben sandwich, with melty Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut. Whip up some corned beef hash in a slow cooker, or plunge into a warm bowl of corned beef and cabbage soup. Stick around, and you'll discover even more mouth-watering ideas!
Main Points
- Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage is a traditional dish perfect for St. Patrick's Day, offering a hearty and flavorful meal.
- Corned Beef Tacos provide a unique twist on a favorite, utilizing leftover corned beef with fresh toppings for a satisfying experience.
- The Reuben Sandwich combines corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, creating a deliciously grilled meal between rye bread.
- Corned Beef and Potato Casserole layers creamy cheese sauce with corned beef and potatoes, making it an ideal family dinner option.
- Spicy Corned Beef Sliders are easy to prepare, featuring shredded beef with spicy mustard, perfect for gatherings and can be customized for flavor.
Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage
Corned beef and cabbage is a beloved dish that has become synonymous with St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the United States. This hearty meal features tender corned beef brisket, which is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
The addition of cabbage, carrots, and potatoes not only improves the meal's nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors and textures that make it visually appealing.
To prepare this classic dish, patience is key. The slow cooking process guarantees that the brisket becomes incredibly tender, while the vegetables retain their distinct flavors. Whether you opt for a slow cooker or an oven, the result is a comforting and satisfying meal that brings a taste of Irish-American tradition right to your table.
Ingredients:
- 4-pound corned beef brisket
- Spice packet (usually included with the brisket)
- 10 baby red potatoes
- 4 large carrots
- 1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges
- Water (enough to cover the brisket)
Cooking Instructions:
Place the corned beef brisket in a slow cooker or a large pot, and add the spice packet on top. Pour enough water over the meat to cover it completely.
If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours; if using an oven, preheat to 350°F and cook for 3.5-4 hours. About 1 hour before the brisket is done, add the baby red potatoes and carrots to the pot. When there are about 30 minutes left, add the cabbage wedges.
Once everything is cooked, remove the brisket and vegetables from the pot, allowing the meat to rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a few cloves of garlic to the cooking liquid.
Additionally, make sure that you slice the corned beef against the grain to achieve maximum tenderness. Serving the dish with mustard or horseradish can uplift the flavors even further, making it a meal that your guests will remember.
Enjoy your corned beef and cabbage with some soda bread for an authentic Irish-American experience!
Slow Cooker Corned Beef Hash
Slow Cooker Corned Beef Hash is a delicious and satisfying dish that transforms leftover corned beef into a hearty breakfast or brunch option. This recipe takes advantage of the robust flavors of corned beef, combined with tender potatoes and sweet onions, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any time of day.
With minimal effort required, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work, infusing the ingredients with rich flavors as they cook together.
To improve this dish, consider adding bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness, or spices like paprika and garlic powder to enrich the overall taste. The result is a flavorful hash that can be served as is or topped with a perfectly fried or poached egg for added protein. Whether you're feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this Slow Cooker Corned Beef Hash is sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced leftover corned beef
- 3 cups cubed potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 eggs (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
In a slow cooker, combine the diced corned beef, cubed potatoes, chopped onions, and bell peppers if using. Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture, then stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. If desired, fry or poach eggs on the side to serve on top of the hash.
Extra Tips:
For the best texture and flavor, use leftover corned beef that has been well-seasoned. You can also experiment with different spices according to your taste preferences.
If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider broiling the hash for a few minutes after cooking to achieve a crispy top. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a convenient meal prep option for busy mornings.
Braised Corned Beef Brisket
Braised corned beef brisket is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. The process of braising allows the tough cuts of meat to transform into a tender and juicy delight, making it a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions. The key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture lies in the low and slow cooking method, which infuses the meat with rich flavors from the braising liquid and aromatics.
With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a delicious meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
To start, you'll want to select a high-quality corned beef brisket. The searing step is critical, as it not only adds depth to the flavor but also creates a beautiful caramelized crust that improves the overall taste of the dish. Once you've seared the brisket and prepared the braising liquid, the hands-off cooking process will allow you to focus on other elements of your meal while the brisket becomes tender and flavorful in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth or dark beer
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Aluminum foil
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 275°F. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat and sear the corned beef brisket on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the brisket and place it in a roasting pan.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft. Pour the beef broth or dark beer into the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the bay leaves and season with salt and pepper.
Pour the braising liquid over the brisket, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and place it in the oven. Braise for about 6 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavor of your braised corned beef brisket, consider adding additional aromatics such as carrots, celery, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the braising liquid.
It's also important to let the brisket rest after cooking, as this will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender. When slicing, always cut against the grain for the best texture.
Leftover corned beef can be used in sandwiches, hash, or added to soups for a delicious twist on your meals.
Corned Beef Tacos
Corned beef tacos are a delicious and groundbreaking way to enjoy leftover corned beef, transforming the traditional Mexican dish into something unique and flavorful. The tender, seasoned meat brings a savory depth to the tacos, while fresh toppings like cabbage and avocado add a delightful crunch and creaminess. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, allowing you to make the most of your leftovers in a fun and satisfying way.
To create these tasty tacos, start by warming up your leftover corned beef. You can shred or dice it depending on your preference, and then add a few spices or sauces to enhance its flavor. Serve it in either corn or flour tortillas, and top with your favorite ingredients to create a well-rounded and mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- Leftover corned beef
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Cabbage, shredded
- Salsa
- Avocado, sliced
- Pickled onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Jalapeños or chipotle sauce (optional)
To cook the corned beef tacos, begin by shredding or dicing the leftover corned beef and warming it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Meanwhile, warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave until soft and pliable. Once the beef is ready, assemble your tacos by placing a portion of the warmed corned beef on each tortilla, followed by your desired toppings such as shredded cabbage, salsa, avocado, pickled onions, and cilantro.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and add jalapeños or a drizzle of chipotle sauce for an extra kick if desired.
When making corned beef tacos, feel free to get creative with your toppings and sauces to suit your taste. Experimenting with different flavor combinations can enhance your dish even further—try adding cheese, sour cream, or even a slaw for added texture.
Also, consider using different types of tortillas like whole wheat or flavored varieties for a twist. Finally, if you don't have leftover corned beef, you can easily prepare a fresh batch by cooking corned beef according to package instructions before shredding it for your tacos. Enjoy!
Reuben Sandwich With Corned Beef
The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic that celebrates the rich flavors of corned beef. This hearty dish combines tender, salty corned beef with the sharpness of Swiss cheese, the tang of sauerkraut, and a creamy dressing, all grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread. The sandwich not only makes a delicious meal but also provides an excellent way to use up leftover corned beef from special occasions like St. Patrick's Day or Passover.
To make a perfect Reuben, the key is in the layering of ingredients. Start by placing the cheese against the bread to help it melt and hold the sandwich together. The balance of textures is essential, so verify that the bread crisps up nicely while the cheese becomes gooey and melty. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful grilling, you can create a Reuben sandwich that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of rye bread
- 4 ounces of corned beef, sliced
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup of sauerkraut, drained
- 2 tablespoons of Russian or Thousand Island dressing
- Butter, for grilling
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer the Swiss cheese, followed by the corned beef, sauerkraut, and dressing. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and carefully place the sandwich in the pan. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
Extra Tips:
For an even more flavorful Reuben, consider adding a dash of your favorite mustard or a sprinkle of pepper to the dressing before spreading it on the sandwich. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also use marble rye bread for a slight sweetness or add some sliced pickles for an extra crunch.
Remember to adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning the bread while verifying the cheese melts thoroughly. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Corned Beef and Potato Casserole
Corned Beef and Potato Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that makes excellent use of leftover corned beef. This comforting casserole features layers of tender, thinly sliced potatoes and savory corned beef, all smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal prep option that can be enjoyed throughout the week.
The combination of flavors and textures makes this casserole a favorite among those who appreciate a filling meal that's easy to prepare. The simplicity of this recipe means you can have a delicious meal on the table with minimal effort. By layering the ingredients and allowing them to bake together, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that's both satisfying and flavorful.
The creamy cheese sauce adds richness, while the potatoes become tender and absorb the savory essence of the corned beef. Whether you're using leftover corned beef from a festive meal or making it fresh, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, sliced or shredded
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup cream (heavy cream or half-and-half)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Next, add a layer of corned beef, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the beef.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, corned beef, and cheese. In a separate bowl, mix the cream with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then pour this mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider including sautéed onions or bell peppers in the layers of the casserole. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor to your liking.
If you want a crispy top, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of the baking time, but watch it closely to prevent burning. Leftover casserole can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a convenient dish for meal prep or quick lunches.
Spicy Corned Beef Sliders
Spicy corned beef sliders are a delectable twist on the classic corned beef dish, perfect for gatherings, game days, or casual weeknight dinners. They aren't only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic option for anyone looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of shredded corned beef with spicy mustard and jalapeños adds a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds, while the melty cheese and soft slider buns create a satisfying bite that everyone will love.
Using leftover corned beef is an excellent way to minimize waste and make the most out of your cooked meat. The sliders are versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences; you can add more toppings or adjust the level of spiciness based on your audience.
Once baked, these sliders emerge from the oven golden brown, with gooey cheese oozing out, making them irresistible. Follow this recipe to create a crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, shredded
- 2 tablespoons spicy mustard
- 1/4 cup jalapeños, sliced (or hot sauce to taste)
- 12 small slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup pepper jack or Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Optional: additional toppings like pickles or onions
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded corned beef with spicy mustard and jalapeños or hot sauce, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the mixture.
Cut the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish. Layer the spicy corned beef mixture evenly over the buns, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese and brush them lightly with melted butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.
Extra Tips:
For an even bolder flavor, consider marinating the shredded corned beef in the spicy mustard and jalapeños for a few hours before assembling the sliders.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese or incorporate additional ingredients like sautéed onions or a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flavor. Serving these sliders with a side of pickles or a spicy dipping sauce can enhance the experience even further.
Enjoy your spicy corned beef sliders hot out of the oven for the best taste!
Corned Beef Shepherd's Pie
Corned Beef Shepherd's Pie is a delightful, hearty dish that transforms leftover corned beef into a comforting meal that everyone will love. This recipe isn't only a delicious way to utilize that extra beef from your St. Patrick's Day feast, but it also brings together a medley of flavors from sautéed vegetables, savory broth, and creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of tender corned beef, sweet carrots, and bright peas topped with a fluffy potato layer makes for a satisfying dinner that warms the soul.
In addition to being a perfect way to use leftovers, this dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different vegetables or add your favorite seasonings to create a unique twist on the classic recipe. The golden crust formed on the mashed potatoes during baking adds a delightful texture, while the filling becomes wonderfully rich and flavorful. It's a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded corned beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions and carrots until they're soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute before stirring in the shredded corned beef, peas, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
Season with salt and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until heated through. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a baking dish, then spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 30 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Corned Beef Shepherd's Pie, consider adding a splash of horseradish to the beef mixture for a spicy kick or incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness.
If you prefer a creamier topping, mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese with your mashed potatoes before spreading them on top. Additionally, for a fun twist, you can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes to give the dish a subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling perfectly.
Corned Beef Fried Rice
Corned beef fried rice is a fantastic way to transform leftover corned beef into a flavorful and satisfying meal. This dish combines cooked rice with sautéed vegetables and tender pieces of corned beef, bringing a delightful blend of textures and tastes to your table. It's not only a quick and easy recipe but also a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a comforting meal.
The beauty of corned beef fried rice lies in its flexibility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste. Whether you have some mixed veggies on hand or want to throw in some peas and carrots, the possibilities are endless.
This hearty dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be whipped up in no time, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably chilled)
- 1 cup diced leftover corned beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and peas)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (rice or apple cider)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions:
In a hot skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent.
Then, toss in the mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes until they're tender. Next, add the diced corned beef, stirring to combine and warm through.
Push the mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space, scrambling them until fully cooked. Once the eggs are ready, add the chilled rice to the pan along with soy sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar.
Stir everything together until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, use day-old rice as it's drier and will fry better, preventing clumps.
Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce and sesame oil based on your preference for saltiness and richness. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some chili paste or red pepper flakes.
Additionally, you can experiment with different proteins or vegetables to make this dish uniquely yours. Enjoy your corned beef fried rice as a delicious and hearty meal!
Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup is a delicious and hearty meal that makes excellent use of leftover corned beef, transforming it into a comforting dish that the whole family will love.
This soup combines tender pieces of corned beef with an array of flavorful vegetables, including cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, all simmered together in a savory broth. Not only is it a great way to repurpose leftovers, but it's also an easy one-pot meal that can be prepared in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
The combination of spices in the broth amplifies the natural flavors of the ingredients, ensuring each bite is packed with taste. This recipe yields about six servings, making it ideal for families or gatherings. Plus, the nutritional benefits from the vegetables, along with the protein from the corned beef, offer a balanced and satisfying option that will keep you warm and full.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef stock or water
- 2 cups cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the chopped corned beef and stir to combine, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Pour in the beef stock or water, and then add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
You can add ingredients like celery, bell peppers, or even green beans for added variety. If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
For a richer flavor, simmer the soup longer or try using homemade beef stock. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making this soup a perfect option for meal prep!