Name: Air Fryer Corned Beef Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488480H14M40S
Total time: PT-488480H14M40S
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 3–4 lb (1.4–1.8 kg) corned beef brisket; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard; 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme; 1/4 cup beef broth or water

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If you’re looking for a show-stopping meal that comes together effortlessly, you’ll absolutely fall in love with Air Fryer Corned Beef. This dish turns a humble brisket into a gorgeously crusted, flavor-packed centerpiece, all with minimal fuss and a quick turnaround time compared to traditional preparations. Whether you’re planning a festive family dinner or just elevating your weeknight meal routine, this recipe guarantees juicy, savory meat and irresistible aromas that will have everyone sneaking bites straight from the cutting board!

Air Fryer Corned Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about making Air Fryer Corned Beef is how streamlined the ingredient list is. Each item plays a vital role in maximizing flavor, tenderness, and color, so don’t skip out on anything if you want that signature result.

Corned Beef Brisket (3–4 lb): The star of the show, providing the signature texture and salt-cured flavor that defines this dish.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the spice mixture adhere and promotes an irresistibly crusty exterior in the air fryer.
Garlic Powder (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, fragrant aroma that underpins every slice with savory goodness.
Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the seasoning blend for extra depth and a gentle sweetness.
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives the brisket a subtle smoky note and gorgeous rosy hue.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Brings just the right amount of sharpness and a hint of heat to balance the richness.
Ground Mustard (1/2 teaspoon): Cuts through the fat and brightens the overall flavor profile.
Ground Thyme (1/4 teaspoon): A tiny punch of herby complexity that works wonders with the beef.
Beef Broth or Water (1/4 cup): Poured in the air fryer tray to help keep everything moist and juicy as it cooks.

How to Make

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by getting your air fryer nice and hot—set it to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the corned beef starts cooking immediately, promoting an even crust and helping to lock in all those mouthwatering juices from the jump.

Step 2: Prep the Corned Beef

Pat your brisket dry with paper towels to get rid of any excess surface moisture. This simple step makes a huge difference, letting the oil and spices cling to the meat for better browning and flavor. Moisture is the enemy of crispy, so don’t rush here!

Step 3: Mix and Apply the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, ground mustard, and thyme. Drizzle the brisket with olive oil, then massage the spice blend all over the meat, making sure every nook and cranny is covered. This rub infuses each bite with deep, aromatic flavor.

Step 4: Load the Brisket into the Air Fryer

Place your seasoned corned beef into the air fryer basket, fat side up—this lets the melting fat baste the meat as it cooks. Pour the 1/4 cup of beef broth or water into the bottom of the air fryer tray (not directly on the meat) to create steam and prevent the brisket from drying out.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Air fry the corned beef at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the internal temperature—when it hits 190°F (88°C), you’ll know it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and ready for the table. For extra crust, you can bump the temp to 400°F for the last few minutes—just watch it closely!

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once out of the air fryer, let the brisket rest on a cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for at least 5-10 minutes. This crucial pause lets the juices redistribute, so you get those glorious, tender slices. Always cut against the grain for the juiciest, most tender bite.

How to Serve

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives makes every plate pop with color and a hint of freshness. If you want extra flair, serve with a dollop of whole grain mustard or even a spoonful of creamy horseradish for an extra kick.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong with traditional steamed cabbage, buttered new potatoes, or sweet, tender carrots. These classic pairings soak up the savory juices beautifully. For a modern spin, roast some root vegetables or toss together a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the meat.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn leftover slices into next-level sandwiches with rye bread, melty Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut. Or, pile warm pieces onto a platter with pickles and roasted veggies for a festive, shareable meal. The beauty of Air Fryer Corned Beef is just how versatile it can be!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any extra corned beef tightly in foil or place in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, making lunchtime something special all week long.

Freezing

If you have more leftovers than you can eat, slice the cooled beef and wrap in plastic, then foil, or use a zip-top freezer bag. It keeps its quality for up to 2 months and is perfect for ready-made dinners or quick sandwiches.

Reheating

To keep your Air Fryer Corned Beef moist, reheat slices covered in foil in a 300°F oven or pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes. Add a splash of beef broth to prevent drying out, and they’ll taste just as juicy as day one.

FAQs

Can I use the seasoning packet that came with my corned beef?

Absolutely! If your packaged brisket includes a seasoning packet, feel free to swap it in for the homemade spice blend, or combine them for even more flavor. It’s a great shortcut that packs in traditional spices.

What size air fryer do I need for this recipe?

A larger-capacity air fryer (at least 5-6 quarts) works best for a 3–4 pound brisket. If yours is smaller, cut the beef in half or cook in batches to ensure even air circulation and the best crust.

Does Air Fryer Corned Beef get as tender as boiled or slow-cooked versions?

Yes, when cooked to the correct internal temperature and rested properly, your air fryer version will be beautifully tender. The slightly crustier outer texture is a delicious bonus, and less time means it’s perfect for busy nights!

Can I cook vegetables at the same time in the air fryer?

While it’s tempting, veggies like cabbage or carrots need different cooking times and moisture levels. For best results, cook them separately so everything comes out perfectly tender and not overdone.

How do I slice Air Fryer Corned Beef for maximum tenderness?

Always slice against the grain—look for the muscle fibers running through the brisket and cut perpendicular to them. This technique ensures each piece is soft, juicy, and wonderfully easy to eat.

Final Thoughts

Once you see how simple, speedy, and mouthwateringly tasty Air Fryer Corned Beef can be, you’ll want to add it to every family gathering or comfort food menu. Give this recipe a try and watch ordinary nights turn into something incredibly memorable—the only challenge will be saving leftovers for tomorrow!