There’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to the aroma of a hearty meal that’s been simmering all day. This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar and Mustard Corned Beef recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with tender, fall-apart beef that’s infused with the rich flavors of brown sugar, tangy mustard, and aromatic spices. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, hosting a spring gathering, or simply craving a cozy meal, this dish is a must-try. Slow Cooker Brown Sugar and Mustard Corned Beef
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. The slow cooker does all the work, and you can easily customize the flavors to suit your taste. Add more mustard for a tangier kick or adjust the sweetness with extra brown sugar. It’s a dish that’s as forgiving as it is delicious, making it a great choice for busy home cooks across the USA.
Table of Contents

Slow Cooker Brown Sugar and Mustard Corned Beef: A Sweet and Savory Spring Delight
Why You’ll Love It
- Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you go about your day.
- Perfect for Spring: The sweet and savory flavors are ideal for seasonal celebrations or family dinners.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to match your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is a hit at potlucks, holidays, and weeknight dinners alike.
Quick Facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Preparation Time | PT15M |
Cooking Time | PT8H |
Total Time | PT8H15M |
Type | Main Course |
Cuisine | American |
Recipe Yield | 6-8 servings |
Calories | ~350 per serving (estimated) |

What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Brown Sugar and Mustard Corned Beef:
- 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket (with seasoning packet)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard (or whole-grain mustard for extra texture)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 pound baby potatoes (optional, for a one-pot meal)
- 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1 small cabbage (cut into wedges)
Let’s Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your Slow Cooker Brown Sugar and Mustard Corned Beef:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water and pat it dry.
- Slice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrots and cabbage.
- Layer the Slow Cooker:
- Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the corned beef brisket on top, fat side up. Sprinkle the seasoning packet over the brisket.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and beef broth until well combined.
- Pour the glaze over the corned beef, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Add Vegetables (Optional):
- If you’re including potatoes and carrots, place them around the brisket.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
- Add Cabbage:
- About 1 hour before the cooking time ends, add the cabbage wedges to the slow cooker.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the corned beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice against the grain and serve with the vegetables and a drizzle of the cooking liquid.

Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Brown Sugar and Mustard Corned Beef is a game-changer for anyone looking for a flavorful, fuss-free meal. The combination of sweet brown sugar and tangy mustard creates a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly complements the tender beef. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
We’d love to hear how your recipe turned out! Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with your creations. Don’t forget to check out our other slow cooker recipes for more delicious inspiration.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can use a Dutch oven or an Instant Pot. For the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for about 90 minutes, then naturally release the pressure.
2. Can I substitute the brown sugar?
Absolutely! You can use maple syrup or honey for a different kind of sweetness.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, the corned beef freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
5. What can I serve with this corned beef?
It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—a foolproof recipe for Slow Cooker Brown Sugar and Mustard Corned Beef that’s perfect for spring gatherings or cozy family dinners. With its irresistible sweet and savory flavors and minimal prep time, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking!