Where to Find Corned Beef in Your Local Grocery Store

Looking for Corned Beef? Here’s Where to Find It in the Grocery Store

If you’re craving corned beef for a classic Reuben sandwich, a hearty hash, or a festive St. Patrick’s Day dinner, you might be wondering exactly where to find it in your local grocery store. Corned beef is a beloved staple with a unique flavor, but its location can sometimes be tricky to pinpoint if you’re not sure what to look for. In this guide, we’ll show you the best places to check, tips for choosing the right type, and how to make your shopping trip a breeze.

What Is Corned Beef?

Corned beef is beef brisket that has been cured with salt and spices, giving it its signature savory taste and pinkish color. You’ll commonly find it served hot or cold, sliced for sandwiches, or as the star ingredient in corned beef and cabbage. It’s especially popular around St. Patrick’s Day but is available year-round in most supermarkets.

Where to Find Corned Beef in the Grocery Store

Depending on the form you’re looking for—fresh, canned, or deli—corned beef can be located in several areas of the store:

1. The Refrigerated Meat Section

• Fresh Corned Beef Brisket: This is typically found in vacuum-sealed packaging near other beef cuts in the refrigerated meat aisle.
• Seasonal Displays: Around March, many stores create special displays for corned beef brisket due to St. Patrick’s Day. Look for endcaps or special coolers featuring corned beef alongside cabbage and potatoes.

2. The Canned Meat Aisle

• Canned Corned Beef: For a shelf-stable option, head to the canned goods aisle. Corned beef is usually stocked near other canned meats like Spam, roast beef, and chicken.
• Popular Brands: Look for brands such as Libby’s, Hormel, and Hereford.

3. The Deli Counter

• Sliced Corned Beef: If you want fresh-sliced corned beef for sandwiches, visit the deli counter. Ask the staff for your preferred thickness and quantity.
• Deli Cases: Some stores have pre-packaged sliced corned beef in the deli section’s open refrigerated cases.

4. International or Specialty Foods Section

• If your store has a British, Irish, or Jewish foods section, you may find specialty corned beef products here—especially imported brands or kosher varieties.

Best Times of Year to Buy Corned Beef

While canned and deli corned beef are available all year, fresh corned beef brisket is most abundant during February and March for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Stock up during sales if you want to enjoy it later—vacuum-sealed briskets freeze well!

How to Choose the Right Corned Beef

• Fresh Brisket: Look for meat that is firm with an even pink color and minimal liquid in the package.
• Canned Corned Beef: Check expiration dates and inspect cans for dents or bulges before buying.
• Deli Slices: Ask for a sample slice if you’re unsure about flavor or texture.
• Fat Some briskets are fattier than others; choose according to your recipe and preference.

Popular Brands of Corned Beef

You’ll find several well-known brands depending on the store and region. Some top choices include:

• Libby’s
• Hormel
• Hereford
• Exeter
• Great Value (Walmart)
• Kirkland Signature (Costco)
• Braum’s (Regional)

Troubleshooting: Can’t Find Corned Beef?

• Ask a Store Employee: Don’t hesitate to ask someone who works at the store—they can point you in the right direction or check inventory in the back.
• Try a Different Store: If your usual supermarket is sold out, check specialty stores such as Jewish delis, international groceries, or warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club.
• Shop Online: Many major retailers offer both canned and fresh corned beef online for delivery or pickup.

How Is Corned Beef Packaged?

Corned beef comes in several forms:

• Vacuum-Sealed Fresh Brisket: Usually found in the meat section, ready for cooking.
• Canned: Shelf-stable, perfect for keeping on hand for quick meals.
• Deli-Sliced: Pre-packaged or freshly sliced at the deli counter.

Corned Beef Storage Tips

• Fresh Brisket: Keep refrigerated and use by the sell-by date, or freeze if storing longer.
• Canned: Store in a cool pantry; refrigerate after opening and use within a few days.
• Deli Slices: Consume within a week of purchase; keep tightly wrapped in the fridge.

Corned Beef FAQ

Is corned beef always available?

Canned and deli varieties are typically available all year. Fresh brisket is more common around St. Patrick’s Day but can sometimes be found year-round in larger supermarkets.

Can I freeze corned beef?

Yes! Both fresh brisket and unopened canned corned beef can be frozen. Always check packaging instructions for best results.

Is there a difference between canned and fresh corned beef?

Canned corned beef is fully cooked and ready to eat cold or heated. Fresh brisket requires cooking before eating and tends to have a different texture and flavor profile.

What recipes use corned beef?

Corned beef is delicious in sandwiches, hash, casseroles, and served with cabbage or potatoes. It’s also great chopped into omelets or added to pasta dishes for extra flavor!

I’m looking for kosher corned beef—where should I check?

Kosher corned beef is often available at Jewish delis, specialty grocery stores, or in the kosher foods section of larger supermarkets.

I only see salted beef—can I use that instead?

No, salted beef and corned beef are prepared differently and have distinct flavors. For authentic recipes, stick with true corned beef.

Is corned beef gluten-free?

The meat itself is gluten-free but always check labels on canned or deli versions for added ingredients or seasonings that might contain gluten.

The Bottom Line

No matter which type of corned beef you’re after—fresh brisket for a family meal, canned for convenience, or deli-sliced for sandwiches—you’ll usually find it in one of three main spots: the meat section (especially near other roasts), the canned goods aisle, or at your store’s deli counter. Remember to check seasonal displays around March and don’t hesitate to ask store staff for help if you’re having trouble finding what you need!

Add some savory goodness to your next meal by picking up corned beef on your next grocery trip—you’ll be glad you did!