Corned beef is a delicious cured and cooked beef brisket that’s commonly served around St. Patrick’s Day. But leftovers can easily dry out when you reheat them. Follow this guide to learn the best techniques for reheating corned beef using your microwave, oven, or air fryer. With a little care, you’ll have moist, tender corned beef that tastes freshly-cooked.

Reheating Corned Beef in the Microwave

The microwave provides a quick and easy way to reheat corned beef without drying it out.

• Cut the corned beef into slices or chunks no more than 1/2-inch thick. Thicker pieces may not heat evenly.
• Place the corned beef pieces in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding.
• Add 2-3 tablespoons of water or broth to the dish. This will add moisture and prevent drying out.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Make sure the seal is airtight to hold in steam.
• Microwave on HIGH for 60-90 seconds per serving. Check frequently and stop early if the corned beef is already hot.
• Allow the corned beef to rest for 1-2 minutes before serving. The steam created while microwaving will redistribute through the meat, evening out the temperature.

Reheating Corned Beef in the Oven

The oven allows you to reheat corned beef evenly while adding flavor.

• Preheat oven to 325°F.
• Place corned beef slices or chunks in an oven-safe dish in a single layer.
• Add a small amount of beef broth, onion soup mix or barbecue sauce to add extra moisture and flavor.
• Cover tightly with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• For added flavor, unwrap foil and broil 3-5 minutes until lightly browned.
• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Reheating Corned Beef in the Air Fryer

The air fryer will reheat corned beef with a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.

• Preheat air fryer to 350°F.
• Cut corned beef into 1-inch cubes or strips to increase surface area.
• Place corned beef pieces in air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
• Mist pieces lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. The oil helps promote browning.
• Air fry for 5-8 minutes, shaking basket halfway through. Heat until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
• For extra flavor, toss corned beef cubes in barbecue sauce before air frying.
• Let rest 1-2 minutes before serving.

Tips for Reheating without Drying Out

• Always opt for thicker slices or larger chunks. Small pieces overcook quickly.
• Add a small amount of liquid to introduce moisture. Beef broth, onion soup mix, barbecue sauce all work well.
• Heat uncovered first to warm through, then optionally broil or air fry briefly to add crispiness.
• Allow a rest time after reheating so moisture can redistribute evenly.
• For oven reheating, add corned beef to a baking dish with some beef broth or Guinness beer. Cover and bake at 350F until warmed through. The broth or beer adds extra moisture.
• When microwaving, use a lower power level like 50% to gently warm the corned beef without overcooking.
• Try making a corned beef hash by dicing the leftovers and sautéing with potatoes, onions, and seasonings. The high heat of the skillet or pan will create a nice crust.
• Leftover sliced corned beef is great in omelets, frittatas or quiches. Just dice or chop it up first before adding to the egg mixture.
• Use corned beef in pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara. The salty, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the rich egg sauce.
• For a quick sandwich, layer corned beef with sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing and Swiss cheese on rye bread. Grill until the cheese melts.

Q&A

How do you know when corned beef is done reheating?

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Corned beef should reach 145°F at the thickest part. Also check that any broth or sauce is bubbling and steam is present.

Can you reheat corned beef without drying it out?

Yes! Use one of the moist reheating methods above and avoid overcooking. Allowing the corned beef to rest afterward also helps retain moisture.

How long is leftover corned beef safe to eat?

Properly refrigerated corned beef will last 3-4 days. Reheat leftovers within this time frame for the best quality. Freeze for longer storage up to 2-3 months.

Should you cover corned beef when reheating?

Yes, it’s best to cover it to keep in moisture and promote even heating. Use a tight fitting lid or aluminum foil.

What is the best way to reheat a corned beef brisket?

Slice the brisket and place slices in a baking dish with some broth. Cover and bake at 325F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Can I reheat corned beef in an instant pot?

Yes. Add 1 cup broth to pot, then place corned beef slices in a steamer basket. Cook at high pressure for 3-5 minutes. Quick release pressure afterwards.

How can you reuse the leftover broth from corned beef?

Strain and save the broth. Use it as a base for soups, stews or gravies. The concentrated beefy flavor adds richness.

Is it safe to reheat corned beef more than once?

It’s best to only reheat it once. The texture tends to dry out with repeated reheating. Eat within 3-4 days and don’t reheat leftovers more than once.

Recipes for Reheating Corned Beef

Warm Corned Beef Sandwich

• 4 slices rye bread
• 8 oz sliced corned beef
• 2 tbsp butter, softened
• 2 tbsp brown mustard
• 4 slices Swiss cheese

1. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place buttered-side-down in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Layer corned beef, mustard and Swiss cheese on unbuttered sides.
3. Cook 2-3 minutes until bread is toasted and cheese melted.

Corned Beef Hash

• 1 cup diced corned beef
• 1 cup diced boiled potatoes
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add potatoes and onion. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add corned beef and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

Reuben Casserole

• 1 lb shredded corned beef
• 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/3 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 4 slices rye bread, cubed

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a casserole dish.
2. Mix together corned beef, sauerkraut, cheese and dressing.
3. Add bread cubes and gently combine.
4. Transfer to casserole dish and bake 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Recommended Products

Microwaves:

• Panasonic NN-SN936B – 1.2 cubic ft, 1200W
• Toshiba EM131A5C-BS – 1.2 cubic ft, 1100W
• Breville Quick Touch BMO734 – 0.7 cubic ft, 1000W
• GE JES1097SMSS – 1.0 cubic ft, 950W
• Galanz G80F-D3A909-R1B – 0.9 cubic ft, 900W

Ovens:

• GE JB750SJSS – 5.3 cubic ft, 30-inch electric
• Whirlpool WOS31ES7JS – 4.3 cubic ft, 30-inch electric
• Frigidaire FFEB2726TS – 5.3 cubic ft, 27-inch electric
• Bosch HBI5615UC – 5.0 cubic ft, 30-inch electric
• Samsung NV51K7770DS – 5.8 cubic ft, 30-inch electric

Air Fryers:

• Cosori CP158-AF – 5.8 qt
• Ninja AF101 – 4 qt
• Instant Vortex Plus – 6 qt
• Philips HD9641/96 – 4 qt
• Chefman TurboFry – 8 qt

Reheating corned beef doesn’t have to lead to dry, overcooked meat. With the proper technique for your chosen appliance, you can enjoy leftover corned beef that’s tender and full of flavor.