Slow cooking is an art, and there’s something incredibly comforting about the rich aroma of meat gently simmering all day. Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef encapsulates that warmth with its juicy texture and bold flavor profile. The sweetness of maple syrup melds perfectly with the tang of yellow mustard, creating a glaze that elevates the classic corned beef. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, meaning you can enjoy mouthwatering flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply set it and forget it!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef

Several years ago, I discovered this recipe while searching for a crowd-pleasing dish for a family gathering. Ditching the spice packet commonly included with corned beef dramatically changed the dish and made my guests rave about it. Cooking it in a slow cooker not only enhances the flavors, but it also allows you to focus on your other preparations, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or festive occasions. I can’t wait for you to experience this delightful recipe, as each bite is a delicious reminder of home and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 20 minutes of prep and let the slow cooker do the rest!
Irresistible Flavor: Sweet maple married with tart mustard creates a scrumptious glaze.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The gorgeous caramelization makes it both beautiful and appetizing.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a holiday feast or casual dinner—everyone will love it.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable with gluten-free or low-sodium choices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 lb. flat cut corned beef roast: This is the star of the dish! Using a flat cut is ideal for its balanced fat content that keeps the meat tender. Trim excess fat for a leaner dish.
2 tsp. cooking oil: To brown the beef prior to slow cooking; this ensures a rich flavor. You can use canola or vegetable oil for a neutral taste.
½ cup maple syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup rather than imitation for a more robust flavor. This sweetener balances the tanginess of the mustard beautifully.
¼ cup yellow mustard: A staple ingredient that adds a punch of flavor. You can substitute it with Dijon mustard for an extra kick.
¼ tsp. black pepper: Adds a subtle heat; freshly cracked pepper enhances the overall taste.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic delight. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your preference.

How to Make Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef

Rinse and Dry: Rinse the corned beef roast under cold water to remove excess brine, then pat it dry with a paper towel. This step helps prevent the dish from being too salty.

Brown the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the cooking oil to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add the corned beef and brown it on all sides, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. This caramelization brings out additional flavors and enhances the dish.

Transfer to Slow Cooker: Carefully place the browned corned beef into the slow cooker. It can be tempting to skip browning, but trust me—the texture and flavor are worth the effort!

Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the ½ cup maple syrup, ¼ cup yellow mustard, ¼ tsp. black pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Pour this harmonious mixture over the corned beef, ensuring it’s well coated.

Cook Slowly: Cover and set your slow cooker to LOW for 7 hours. Do not open the lid during cooking, as this lets out steam and can affect the tenderness of the meat.

Serve Up: When done, carefully slice the corned beef against the grain for optimal tenderness. Serve it with sides like mashed red potatoes, steamed carrots, and cabbage for a comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Storing & Reheating

To store, let any leftover corned beef cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option—place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Always rinse the corned beef to control the saltiness. You can also choose a low-sodium option for the roast if you’re watching your sodium intake.
For best flavor, let the ingredients come to room temperature before cooking; this means browning the beef is more effective.
You can adjust the maple syrup and mustard ratios to suit your taste; just remember that the sweetness cuts the tang of the mustard beautifully.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the maple-mustard sauce for a spicy kick.
This dish can be made ahead of time! Simply prepare it as directed, let it cool after cooking, and store it in the fridge for easy reheating any day of the week.

There’s no denying the wonderful blend of flavors in this dish. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef is bound to impress. The warm, smoky aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. So, gather your ingredients and delve into this delightful recipe, and you’ll create a meal that brings comfort and soul.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While a flat cut is recommended for its balance of meat and fat, you can use a point cut for more marbling or even a brisket if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.

How do I know when the corned beef is done?

The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer; it should read at least 205°F for tender meat that is easy to slice. You can also test it with a fork—if it’s fork-tender, it’s ready!

What can I serve with corned beef?

While mashed red potatoes, steamed carrots, and cabbage are classic accompaniments, feel free to get creative! Colcannon, roasted vegetables, or even a hearty salad pair well with this dish.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for making ahead. You can cook it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will only deepen as it sits. Just reheat before serving!

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Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef

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Author: Anna
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 440 minutes
Total Time: 7 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Slow Cooker
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

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Description

This Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef features a delightful blend of tender meat and sweet, tangy sauce. Easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

Scale

3 lb. flat cut corned beef roast, ditch the spice packet
2 tsp. cooking oil
½ cup maple syrup
¼ cup yellow mustard
¼ tsp. black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced

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Instructions

Rinse the corned beef and pat it dry with a paper towel.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add cooking oil to coat the bottom.
Brown the meat on all sides in the hot oil.
Transfer the browned corned beef to the slow cooker.
In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, mustard, black pepper, and minced garlic, then pour this sauce over the meat.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 7 hours without lifting the lid.
Serve with your choice of sides, such as mashed red potatoes, steamed carrots, and cabbage.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs to the sauce mix.
Adjust the maple syrup and mustard ratio according to your sweetness preference.
Leftovers can be enjoyed in sandwiches or salads.