Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Corned Beef takes the traditional, slow-cooked dish and speeds it up, delivering the same juicy, tender, and flavorful corned beef in a fraction of the time. The air fryer’s hot circulating air crisps the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender, making it a fantastic option for a quicker and easier corned beef dinner. With a delicious, seasoned crust and melt-in-your-mouth interior, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to a weeknight meal. It’s a great way to enjoy all the classic flavors of corned beef with minimal effort.

Air Fryer Corned Beef

Ingredients

3-4 pound corned beef brisket, with seasoning packet
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Remove the corned beef brisket from its packaging, and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the brine or any liquid.
Rub the corned beef with olive oil on all sides.
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the corned beef, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
Place the corned beef brisket in the air fryer basket, fat side up.
Cook the corned beef for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) for maximum tenderness.
Once cooked, remove the corned beef from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, potatoes, or cabbage.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Corned Beef: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
Herb-Infused Corned Beef: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to infuse the meat with more flavor.
BBQ Corned Beef: Brush the corned beef with your favorite barbecue sauce halfway through cooking for a smoky, tangy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover corned beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze leftover corned beef for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat, place the corned beef in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or you can use the microwave for quicker reheating.

FAQs

Can I cook a smaller corned beef brisket in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook a smaller corned beef brisket in the air fryer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the brisket. The goal is to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.

Do I need to rinse the corned beef before cooking?

It’s a good idea to rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt and brine before cooking, especially if you’re using the seasoning packet. This will help reduce the saltiness.

Can I cook corned beef with the cabbage in the air fryer?

While the air fryer is great for cooking corned beef, cabbage may not cook as evenly due to its texture. You can cook the cabbage separately in the air fryer or oven, or add it to the pot if you’re using a slow cooker or stovetop method.

Can I use a pre-cooked corned beef brisket in this recipe?

Yes, if you’re using a pre-cooked corned beef brisket, you can still use the air fryer to crisp the outer layer and warm it up. Just cook it for a shorter amount of time (about 10-15 minutes), depending on the size.

Can I make corned beef sandwiches with this recipe?

Absolutely! Once the corned beef is cooked and sliced, it makes for the perfect filling for corned beef sandwiches. Add mustard, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut for a classic Reuben.

How do I know when the corned beef is fully cooked?

The key to perfectly cooked corned beef is reaching an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C). At this temperature, the meat will be tender and easy to slice. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Can I make corned beef with no seasoning packet?

Yes, you can make corned beef without the seasoning packet. Simply season the brisket with your own mix of spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, peppercorns, thyme, and mustard seeds.

Can I cook corned beef in the air fryer without oil?

Yes, you can cook corned beef in the air fryer without oil, but oil helps to achieve a crispier exterior. If you prefer to skip the oil, you can rub the brisket with the seasoning directly.

Can I cook corned beef in a different air fryer temperature?

You can adjust the cooking temperature slightly, but 375°F (190°C) is the optimal temperature for achieving a crisp, tender result. If your air fryer runs hot or cold, you may need to adjust the time or temperature slightly.

Can I make this recipe with a frozen corned beef brisket?

It’s best to thaw frozen corned beef before cooking in the air fryer. If you’re cooking directly from frozen, it will take much longer to cook, and you may not achieve the same tender texture.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Corned Beef is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish with minimal effort. The result is a beautifully tender, juicy, and flavorful brisket with a crispy, seasoned crust. Whether you’re making it for a holiday or just craving a delicious meal, this air fryer recipe will save you time while delivering fantastic flavor. Enjoy your corned beef with traditional sides, or get creative and use the leftovers in sandwiches, tacos, or salads!