Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Name: Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices bacon, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich flavors of French cuisine with this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. Perfectly tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a luscious wine sauce make this dish a comforting classic.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:49:28.623Z

This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty stew that is perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavors that improve with time
Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
A perfect dish for meal prep and gatherings

      

The Essence of French Cooking

French cuisine is celebrated for its sophistication and depth of flavor, and Beef Bourguignon is a prime example of this culinary art. This traditional dish hails from the Burgundy region of France, where the quality of local beef and red wine come together to create a symphony of tastes. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a meal that feels both luxurious and comforting.

What sets Beef Bourguignon apart is its use of simple, high-quality ingredients that transform into something extraordinary through the cooking process. The combination of tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich wine sauce not only warms the heart but also nourishes the soul. It's a dish that evokes a sense of home and tradition, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Bourguignon

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, consider marinating the beef in red wine for a few hours or overnight. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat, making it even more succulent when cooked. Additionally, using a quality red wine that you enjoy drinking will elevate the overall taste of the dish, so choose wisely!

Don't rush the cooking process; patience is key to developing the rich flavors that define this recipe. Allowing the stew to cook slowly allows the beef to absorb the flavors of the wine and herbs fully. If you're preparing this dish for a special occasion, consider making it a day in advance. The flavors deepen and improve when reheated, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Pairing Suggestions

When serving your Beef Bourguignon, consider pairing it with a crisp, green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will balance the richness of the stew, creating a harmonious dining experience. Additionally, crusty French bread is a must-have to mop up the delicious sauce, ensuring that none of the flavorful broth goes to waste.

For a beverage pairing, a glass of the same red wine used in the cooking process is a perfect choice. This not only complements the dish but enhances the overall meal experience. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling grape juice can mimic the wine's acidity and provide a refreshing contrast.

Ingredients

For the Beef Bourguignon

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices bacon, diced
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups red wine
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.

Sear the Beef

In the same skillet, add the beef cubes in batches and brown them on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Add Vegetables and Liquids

Add the onion, carrots, garlic, and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, then stir in the tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix flour with a bit of water and stir it into the stew during the last hour of cooking.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your beef bourguignon with fresh bread or over mashed potatoes!

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop further.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Bourguignon is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion. While it is traditionally enjoyed with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes, consider serving it over egg noodles or polenta for a delightful twist. Each option allows you to soak up the rich sauce while adding its unique texture and flavor to the meal.

For a more rustic presentation, you can serve the stew in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish for special occasions. Accompanying sides like roasted vegetables or a classic French ratatouille can also complement the hearty flavors of the Bourguignon.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. This allows you to enjoy a taste of France even on busy nights.

When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Enjoy your Beef Bourguignon over the next few days or save it for a cozy night in!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for tenderness.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded.

→ Is it necessary to sear the beef first?

Searing adds depth of flavor, but you can skip it for a quicker preparation.