Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of savoring a rich, cozy meal that makes your kitchen smell like a French bistro, then you are in for a treat with this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. This classic French stew, slow-cooked to perfection, melds tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs in a luscious red wine sauce that practically melts in your mouth. Using a slow cooker makes it incredibly simple to develop those deep, complex flavors without standing over the stove all day. Whether it’s a special weekend dinner or a comforting weekday meal, this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon will become one of your favorite go-to dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays an essential role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon truly unforgettable. From the tender beef chuck to the robust red wine, every component contributes to the magic.

• 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes: This cut becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked, soaking up all the flavors beautifully.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps to create a lovely, thickened sauce by coating the beef before browning.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste throughout the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that lifts the savory notes.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables to build flavor.
• 4 slices bacon chopped: Imparts a smoky richness that gives the stew an irresistible depth.
• 1 medium onion diced: Softens and sweetens the base of the sauce.
• 2 carrots sliced: Adds subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
• 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir): The star ingredient for that characteristic tang and richness.
• 2 cups beef broth: Provides hearty body to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Gives a slight acidity and thickness that balances the wine’s fruitiness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings earthy, herbal notes to the dish.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle aromatic complexity.
• 8 ounces mushrooms quartered: Absorbs the savory sauce and adds a meaty texture.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish): A fresh, bright finish to cut through the richness.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by combining the flour, salt, and pepper in a large bowl, then toss the beef cubes thoroughly in the mixture. This coating will help thicken the sauce later and ensures a beautiful, flavorful crust when browned.

Step 2: Brown the Bacon and Beef

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chopped bacon until it’s wonderfully crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside. In the bacon drippings left in the skillet, brown the beef cubes in batches so they get a nice sear without steaming. This step locks in the juices and layers an irresistible depth of flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onions and sliced carrots to soften and sweeten – about five minutes is perfect. Add the minced garlic last and cook for another minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning it.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan and Build the Sauce

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom; those bits are pure flavor gold! Let this mixture come to a simmer before adding the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together to create a rich and aromatic sauce.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker, pour over the wine mixture, and add the cooked bacon and quartered mushrooms. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the elements evenly, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is tender enough to fall apart with a fork. This slow cooking time allows the flavors to marry and intensify, resulting in that signature melt-in-your-mouth Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon taste.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once cooking is complete, remove the bay leaf and adjust your seasoning if needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top to add a vibrant burst of color and freshness just before serving.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a crisp, herbal note that balances the richness. For an extra touch, a few pearl onions or a dollop of crème fraîche make delightful traditional garnishes worth trying.

Side Dishes

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon shines best with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or a crusty baguette to soak up every luscious drop of sauce. Roasted root vegetables or a simple green salad can add fresh contrast and variety to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more modern twist, try serving your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon over creamy polenta or alongside garlic-infused couscous. Individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or rustic bread bowls make for an impressive and cozy presentation perfect for entertaining friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy later.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce is too thick after refrigerating, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness and marbling, other tougher cuts like brisket or short ribs can work well too given enough slow cooking time.

Do I have to use red wine in this recipe?

Red wine adds signature depth and richness, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute extra beef broth with a splash of red grape juice or cranberry juice for some sweetness and acidity.

Can I prepare this dish on the stovetop instead?

Yes! You can follow the same steps but simmer everything gently in a heavy pot or Dutch oven for 2 to 3 hours instead of using a slow cooker.

What wine pairs best with Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?

Burgundy or Pinot Noir wines are classic pairings as they echo the flavors inside the dish without overpowering it. Choose something medium-bodied with good fruit and acidity.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing and reheating?

Definitely! Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon freezes and reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or saving delicious leftovers without losing quality.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is comfort food at its finest, marrying tradition with ease thanks to the magic of slow cooking. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved dish—rich, tender, and soul-warming all at once. Trust me, making it will become a happy ritual you look forward to sharing with family and friends.

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