If you’re staring at leftover corned beef and cabbage and thinking, “I can’t eat another plate of this” — don’t worry, I’ve got you. This Instant Pot Leftover Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup turns those leftovers into a cozy, comforting bowl of magic that somehow tastes even better than the original meal.
Now, let’s be honest for a second. Corned beef is a fatty cut of beef and it tends to be packed with sodium, so no — this isn’t exactly a “health food.” That said, in small quantities it’s not terrible for you… but really, who actually eats small quantities when corned beef is involved? This is comfort food, not a salad, and this easy corned beef soup fully leans into that.
Packed with tender potatoes, carrots, and cabbage simmered in a rich, savory broth, this corned beef and cabbage soup Instant Pot recipe is the perfect way to repurpose leftovers. And since we’re starting with already-cooked meat, this leftover corned beef soup recipe comes together in under 30 minutes — fast, cozy, and totally worth it.
No leftover corned beef? Don't fret, check out this easy Instant Pot Corned Beef Recipe or this sous vide corned beef to get yourself rolling.
Also, if you don't have an Instant Pot yet, read my complete Instant Pot Review to decide if it's for you.
Why This Recipe Works
- Using leftover corned beef enables this recipe to be made in under 30 minutes.
No long cooking times here — this leftover corned beef soup recipe is fast, easy, and weeknight-friendly. - Sautéing the cabbage in bacon fat adds an extra dimension of flavor.
That quick sauté step makes this Instant Pot corned beef soup rich, savory, and totally irresistible. - It’s great made ahead or served as leftovers.
Just like chili or stew, this soup gets even better the next day. - It’s so easy your boyfriend/husband/kids can do it.
If they can press a button, they can make this soup. Seriously.
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What Is My Take on Instant Pot Leftover Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup?
This soup is comfort food at its finest. It’s cozy, filling, and tastes like something you’d get in a little pub on a chilly day. The flavors are classic, simple, and familiar — exactly what you want from an Irish corned beef cabbage soup, but with a modern Instant Pot shortcut.
I also love how flexible it is. Want it creamier? Add the cream. Want it lighter? Skip it. Either way, you’re getting a soul-warming bowl of goodness.
Make It a Meal
My all-time favorite way to serve this corned beef and cabbage soup Instant Pot style is with a fresh piece of crusty French bread and a thick layer of salted butter.
You could also serve it with tortillas or naan bread — or honestly, just grab a spoon and call it dinner. This easy corned beef soup totally stands on its own.
Easy Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with:
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Irish soda bread
Ingredients
The full list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
This recipe is very simple, using only salt and pepper. However, you can add 1 tsp. of yellow mustard seed if you want to add a little tang to the soup.
Step By Step Instructions
Step1: Chop up all your ingredients and have them ready to go.
Step2: We start by turning our Instant Pot to saute, and heating the bacon fat. You can also use butter or cooking oil, I just LOVE the flavor that bacon fat adds.
Step3: Add the cabbage and saute for 2-4 minutes, until softened.
Step4: Add the tomato paste and stir.
Step5: Add the potatoes, carrots, leftover corned beef and seasoning and stir to combine. I add 2 tsp. of black pepper, but if you have a lower tolerance for pepper, add ½ to 1 tsp.
Step6: Add the stock and the cream (optional). Turn the IP to pressure and cook on high for 15 minutes.
Step7: When done cooking, use the quick release to release the pressure. Season to taste with additional salt (if necessary). Serve in bowls with crusty buttered French bread. Seriously, the French bread is a MUST. Try this easy Crusty French Bread from Natasha's Kitchen.
Expert Tips
- Bacon fat adds incredible flavor, but butter or another animal fat works if needed.
- No leftovers? You can easily make corned beef using this Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe, then jump right into this soup.
- The cream is optional, but it adds the perfect touch of richness to this Irish corned beef cabbage soup.
Common Questions
Yes! This Instant Pot corned beef soup is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
Corned beef can vary in saltiness. Start with less salt and adjust at the end.
Follow this recipe for Instant Pot Corned Beef to have it ready in under 2 hours.
Storing Instructions
I honestly think this soup is even better the second day — you know, like Chinese food.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing Instructions - place leftover corned beef soup recipe in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Did you make this Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup? Rate the recipe and leave a comment to let me know how they turned out!
Recipe
Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked corned beef
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ head cabbage, chopped
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 1-2 tsp. black pepper (according to preference)
- 3 oz. tomato paste
- 2 tsp. Salt, (to taste)
- 1 tbsp. bacon fat
- 4 tbsp. cream (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the bacon fat in the Instant Pot on the highest saute setting. Add the cabbage and saute for 2-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the tomato paste and stir. Add the potatoes, carrots, corned beef and seasonings and stir to combine.
- Add the stock and cream (optional) and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Use the quick release to release the pressure when done cooking. Season with additional salt as necessary and serve with crusty bread.
Expert Tips:
- Using bacon fat to saute the cabbage adds and extra layer of flavor and richness to the soup. However, if you don't have bacon fat, you can substitute butter or other animal fat.
- If you don't have leftover corned beef, it's super easy to make using this Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe.
- The cream in the recipe is optional, however, it adds the perfect amount of richness to the soup.
Carol Collman says
Soup-er good and satisfying!
Danielle says
Thanks!
J says
So many ads its difficult to read the recipes!!
Danielle says
Thanks for the input! I will definitely take a look at the ad volume. I hadn't realized the ads were so disruptive.
Stephanie Simmons says
What a great way to use up your leftovers! This sounds absolutely delish!
Danielle says
Thanks Stephanie!
Jacquelyn Hastert says
I know what to do with my leftovers! I love corned beef and cabbage, but never had it in a stew! Can't wait to give this a try tomorrow.
Danielle says
Hope you love it Jacqueline!
Lathiya says
Loving this soup and it 's a great way to use up left overs. I love the idea of not wasting the food and turning it into yet another delicious dish. This looks awesome
Danielle says
Thanks Lathiya!
April says
I love how such a complex and flavorsome dish can be made in under 30 minutes. Fantastic way to cook beef and have a filling warming dinner!
Danielle says
Totally! Thanks April!
Mimi says
Beef, chunks of cabbage, carrots and potatoes... fantastic four! This stew becomes an easy winner for me in the "Best Flavors" category! 🙂
Danielle says
Thanks so much Mimi!
Jo says
Ok, that's the soup I need to try right away. I love that you've used left-overs and turned it into a delicious soup! It comes together so quickly and easily!
Danielle says
It's one of our favorite leftover recipes!
Nicole says
This soup is the perfect use of your Saint Patricks Day leftovers!
Danielle says
Totally!
Jori says
I can't believe this only takes 20 minutes. I be it tastes like you've spent hours on it! I love the addition of bacon fat. Adds such a great mouth-feel and flavour.
Danielle says
It's such an awesome way to use your leftovers - so delicious and easy!
Leslie Kiszka says
20 minutes?! Are you kidding me?! I'm lazy as heck these days, but even I can manage that! 🙂
Danielle says
Right? I feel you! LOL 🙂
Kylie | Midwest Foodie says
What a great way to use up all the leftovers from St Patrick's Day! And I love that comes together so easily and quickly. Pinning this for later!
Danielle says
Hope you get a chance to use it!
Maman de sara says
It looks like an easy recipe. It must be delicious 😋
Danielle says
It's a super easy and delicious recipe!
Sharon says
This recipe is such a great way to use up those St. Patrick's Day leftovers. Looks so hearty and delicious.
Danielle says
Totally - thanks Sharon!
Karyl Henry says
Sauteeing anything in bacon adds glorious flavor! I dont' eat corned beef very often, but it looks delicious in this stew! looks like the perfect recipe for St. Patty's day
Danielle says
I totally agree! I use bacon fat any chance it get 🙂
Jacqueline Debono says
This stew looks so tasty and warming! I love corned beef! Great idea to use bacon fat. That must add so much flavour!
Danielle says
I LOVE using bacon fat in cooking - so much great flavor. Thanks Jacqueline!
Cheese Curd In Paradise says
I love corned beef and cabbage, and I am loving the idea of eating it in stew form! This is so hearty and chunky that it makes the perfect meal for Sunday evening!
Danielle says
Thanks!
Anne Lawton says
I'm going to keep this in mind for my corned beef leftovers this year, it sounds yummy!
Danielle says
Thanks Anne!
Candiss says
This is such a great use of St. Patricks day leftovers! Monday is going to be a treat!
Danielle says
Thanks Candiss!
Lauren - The Little Lake Cottage says
I love corned beef and cabbage, but my husband hates it. I make it every year in March and this is a fantastic use of left overs!!! Great idea! Thanks for sharing!!!
Lauren - https://thelittlelakecottage.com
Danielle says
That just means more for you 🙂
Sincerely Miss J says
This looks so hearty and perfect for the winter. I am always looking for new recipes to add to my recipe list.
Danielle says
Thanks - hope you enjoy it 🙂
Bella and Dawn at Dear Mummy Blog says
What a great way to use leftovers! We must give this a try!
Danielle says
Thanks - hope you love it!
natalie says
This looks so hearty and filling. I don't like corned beef but I might try it will left over beef from our Sunday dinner next week.
Danielle says
Any leftover been would be great!
Denise says
This looks incredibly satisfying! What a great recipe to use up leftovers.
Danielle says
Thanks Denise!
Byron Thomas says
Yes! A chunky stew - just the way stew should be!! As good as this stew was, I think my favourite part was that I could still taste a hint of smoke from the bacon fat even with all of those veggies. So delicious!
Danielle says
bacon fat really does add so much flavor!
rebecca says
Really not a fan of cabbage but this actually looks amazing! P O T A T O E S!! yes - love it!
Danielle says
Thanks Rebecca! You could totally just leave the cabbage out if you really don't like it. Just add some extra potatoes 😉
Lyosha says
looks so very delicious and easy enough to make! Looks very delicious!
Danielle says
Thanks Lyosha!
Jessica Maysq says
This looks absolutely delicious and filling. I just love using the Instant pot as well, so easy!
Danielle says
Thanks Jessica!
Kelly Anthony says
Your step by step directions make this instant pot corned beef cabbage stew perfect for any cook. Thanks for sharing!
Danielle says
Thanks Kelly!
Va Anne Rome says
Wow, so delicious and easy recipe to make for the kids. I am sure my kids will love it like and will make their favorite.
Danielle says
Thanks! Hope you enjoy 🙂
Beth Pierce says
I love how you turned a great dish into an even better dish with the leftovers! Thank you for the inspiration; I know what I'm having for lunch this week!
Danielle says
It's a great way to use leftovers (if you have any)!
Sara Welch says
This recipe sure doesn't skimp on the fillings! It looks fulfilling and very delicious, as well!
Danielle says
It totally is! Thanks Sara!
Catherine says
Perfect meal for St. Patrick's Day! This looks comforting and hearty...love your photos!
Danielle says
Thanks catherine!
Jennifer Morrison says
This looks amazing! I never thought of cooking corned beef and cabbage in the Instant Pot. Thank You for this great recipe!
Danielle says
You're welcome Jennifer!!
Emmy says
Your pictures are so pretty, I don't even eat meat and it made me crave this haha I've been looking for something to cook for my husband for St. Patrick's day and I think this is the perfect recipe!!
Danielle says
LOL thanks Emmy!!
Kisha Stewart-Harris says
I tried this, but added a can of stewed tomatoes instead of the tomato paste. Came out scrumptious. Made a pan of skilled cornbread to round it off and the entire family loved it.
Danielle says
Love the idea of using a can of tomatoes, I'll have to try it that way next time. I'm glad you liked it!
Alexandra Cook says
This looks delightful and tasty. I would love to try making this. My kids would absolutely love this.
Danielle says
Thanks Alexandra!
Cathleen @ A Taste of Madness says
Okay, seriously this is crazy. You can make basically everything in the Instant Pot! I really need to get me one, because this stew is making me drool all over my keyboard 😉
Danielle says
You totally can!
Surekha Busa says
Wow, this is so great, I never knew that I could make something special out of a leftover corned beef.
Danielle says
Thanks!
John Mulindi says
What a nice dish this is! I can't wait to try this out. Thanks.
Danielle says
Thanks John!
Denay DeGuzman says
What a delicious, healthy, hearty recipe! Perfect for the cold-weather months AND St. Patrick's Day.
Danielle says
Thanks Denay!
Kalyan Panja says
Looks like a nice and easy recipe to satisfy guests and friends. Thanks for sharing
Danielle says
You're welcome 🙂
Carolyn says
This looks so hearty and delicious. My mouth is watering!
Danielle says
Thanks carolyn!
Elaine Benoit says
I love corned beef and cabbage, but I never thought of making it into a stew/soup! This looks fabulous! Such a great way to use leftovers especially around this time of the year. Though I can see myself making this year round. That's how much I love corned beef and cabbage.
Danielle says
Corned beef and cabbage really is such a great dish!
Cheese Curd In Paradise says
I love corned beef and cabbage, and have never thought to make it into a hearty stew! I love the splash of cream and the quick cook with the instant pot! Just when I thought corned beef and cabbage couldn't get better...wrong! I can't wait to give it a try.
Danielle says
Thanks Ashley! I figure why not a soup when it's still cold and rainy outside!!
Yeah Lifestyle says
What a delicious way to use up leftover corned beef! I'd love a bowlful of this!
Danielle says
Thanks!
kumamonjeng says
I love this recipe as it has everything in a pot, lots of cabbages and also meat. Easy to prepare.
Danielle says
Totally easy to prepare! Thanks 🙂
Emmeline says
Love this recipe!! Looks so yummy & cosy & perfect for these final cold winter days we're having.
Danielle says
Definitely! Thanks Emmeline!
annick says
i've never had corned beef before but this sounds very delicious -- especially when it's raining so heavily over where I live. A good, warming soup is everything on cold days 😊
Danielle says
It totally is! Thanks Annick!
Jere Cassidy says
Why don't I own an Insta Pot? I love the idea of taking corned beef and cabbage and making a soup. Your looks totally delicious.
Danielle says
LOL right? They are so handy!
Leanne Wong | SEO + Blogging Strategist says
This is such a heartwarming dish! I love corned beef stew and this looks amazing. Bookmarked your recipe 🙂
Danielle says
Thanks Leanne!
Aleta says
Yes! I was so excited about your Instant Pot Corned Beef recipe, and now I get to drool over this amazing soup to use up the leftovers! So excited to try this, thanks for sharing 🙂
Danielle says
You're welcome Aleta! I hope you get a chance to try it 🙂
Lees Garcia says
omg this looks delicious! will have to save this recipe for later! thank you
Danielle says
Thanks Lees!
Heather says
You can make just about anything in an instant pot, can't you? I really need to get one.
Danielle says
Totally!
Kaylene says
Yum! This looks so good! Corned beef is a must around St. Pattys day!
Danielle says
Totally! Thanks Kaylene!
Lauren says
I love Corned Beef and Cabbage! Perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day IMO 😉
Danielle says
I totally agree!
Shannah says
Perfect meal to have this week with St.Patrick’s day! I love how simple and quick it is to do in my new instant pot!
Danielle says
Totally! Thanks Shannah!
kylee says
What a great way to use up leftovers! I love corned beef and honestly, there's not usually that much leftover, but I might have to double the amount just for this!
Danielle says
I usually make corned beef twice. Once to eat and once to use for this soup because we always inhale the first one LOL!
Scott Gombar says
Corned Beef and Cabbage is so hit or miss for me. I will give this a try. Cooking it myself might make the difference.
Danielle says
Hope you love it Scott!
Amanda says
I always appreciate a good recipe for leftovers because I have no doubt that I'll have plenty of leftover corned beef after this weekend. This soup looks so cozy and delicious. Thanks for the great idea!
Danielle says
It's a great way to use those leftovers!
Mahy Elamin says
Your soup looks absolutely delicious! Thank you for the recipe, I can’t wait to try it out!
Danielle says
Thanks so much Mahy!
Gloria says
Whoever says they don't like leftovers have not had "soup leftovers". The best way to use leftovers is to make soup. This sounds totally delicious. I would make a HUGE pot...to have more leftovers.
Danielle says
Totally!! You wouldn't eve know they were "leftovers."
Stacie says
This is going to save SO MUCH TIME for me. I make corned beef every year, and this year is going to be the easiest ever!
Danielle says
It makes it so easy!
Dee says
I love how simple and easy it is to make this recipe! I love love love cabbage but never thought about adding it this type of dish!
Danielle says
It goes great with the corned beef!!
Jessica Krause says
Looks so great - my family only eats corned beef around this time of year so we will have to try it this week or next!
Danielle says
Perfect timing!
Noelle says
This IS a heartwarming recipe, loved it!
Danielle says
Thanks Noelle!
Taylor Kiser says
This stew looks so delish! Such a great way to use leftovers from St Patrick's Day dinner!
Danielle says
Thanks Taylor!
Michelle Miller says
What a wonderful comfort recipe. The perfect meaty winter stew no doubt! Love it.
Danielle says
Thanks Michelle!
Lisa | Garlic & Zest says
We don't usually have leftovers of corned beef, so I'm going to have to get a larger brisket this year to ensure I've got some leftover for this tasty soup! Your photos are gorgeous!
Danielle says
Sometimes I make the corned beef just so I can make this soup! Thanks so much Lisa 🙂
Chantal says
Looks so good! In Jamaica what we call corned beef is different, it's like ground and sold in a can. Very nostalgic for me but I remember the first time I discovered this corned beef! LOVE struck!
Danielle says
You know I've never actually had the canned version before - but I know they have it in stores here too 🙂
Lfbk55 says
Great soup if only I had used half of the pepper ... next time!
Danielle says
Everyone does have a different taste for pepper. Maybe I'll reduce it in the recipe and let people add more if they want to.
Jeff says
So that would be 3 oz of tomato paste? Also, can you do this with the corned beef being raw?
Danielle says
Jeff - yes 3 oz. of tomato paste. You will need to cook it for much longer if the corned beef is raw. Check out my recipe for Instant Pot corned beef and you can segway that right into this corned beef and cabbage soup 🙂 https://www.wenthere8this.com/instant-pot-corned-beef/
Frank Latour says
Please, what is 1/2 can of tomato paste in TBLS, or CUPS? I find two different size cans in my supermarket.
Danielle says
Hi Frank - it is 1/2 can of a 6 oz. can. I should make that cleared in the instructions.
Julia says
Love how tender the meat looks! Can't wait to try it!
Danielle says
Thanks Julia! It was melt in your mouth tender 🙂
Christina Shoemaker says
Oooo yes, this is a beautiful rustic dish and I'm loving that you used the Instant Pot! What a perfect way to celebrate St Patrick's Day next week!
Danielle says
Thanks Christina! That Instant Pot is def my new found love!
Diana says
Cabbage stew sounds sooo good! I need to make it.
Danielle says
It is delicious! I hope you get a change to try it 🙂
Brian Jones says
That sounds wonderful, the instzant pot is perfect for cooking stuff like this, can't wait to give it a try.
Danielle says
Thanks Brian! I hope you enjoy it 🙂
linda spiker says
What a wonderful St. Patrick's Day meal! IP for the win!
Danielle says
Thanks! You gotta love that IP!
Sandra says
This looks delicious - and the perfect dish for March 17th!
Danielle says
Thanks! Great for the holiday 🙂
Angie says
Oh, my goodness! I am dying right now. This looks beyond amazing!
Danielle says
LOL! I think the boyfriend almost proposed after eating it LOL! It was pretty good, especially for being so easy.