Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Name: Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices of bacon, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, sliced; 2 cups mushrooms, quartered; 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy); 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A classic French dish made easy with a slow cooker, this Beef Bourguignon is rich, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:45:56.777Z

This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a comforting dish that warms the soul. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making it a perfect meal for gatherings or family dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
Deep, complex flavors from red wine and herbs
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup

      

The Heart of French Cuisine

Beef Bourguignon is a quintessential French dish that showcases the art of slow cooking. Originating from the Burgundy region, this recipe highlights the region's famous red wine, lending a rich flavor to the tender beef. The combination of marbled beef, aromatic herbs, and vegetables creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

This classic stew is not just about taste; it’s also about the experience of sharing a meal with loved ones. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Each bite transports you to a rustic French bistro, reminding you of the joy that comes from good food and good company.

The Benefits of Slow Cooking

Using a slow cooker for Beef Bourguignon simplifies the cooking process while enhancing the flavors. Unlike traditional methods that require constant attention, slow cooking allows you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities. The low and slow method breaks down the tough fibers in the beef, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is hard to resist.

Additionally, the slow cooker retains moisture and concentrates flavors, making your dish more robust. This means that even if you're busy throughout the day, you can come home to a warm, hearty meal that tastes like it has been simmering for hours. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Beef Bourguignon, the options are plentiful. Traditionally, it pairs excellently with crusty French bread, perfect for dipping into the savory sauce. Alternatively, consider serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the rich gravy. For a low-carb option, cauliflower mash is a delightful substitute.

Don’t forget to complement your meal with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. A glass of red wine, ideally the same you used in the dish, enhances the dining experience and ties the meal together beautifully. No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Beef Bourguignon:

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices of bacon, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, quartered
2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you begin cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Beef Bourguignon:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Brown the Beef

In the same skillet, brown the beef cubes in the bacon fat. This adds flavor to the dish. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until soft. Then add the carrots and mushrooms, cooking for a few more minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add in the cooked bacon, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the beef is tender.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your homemade Beef Bourguignon!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop even after the initial cooking, making it a perfect meal prep option. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing the stew. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if necessary to restore its original consistency. Enjoying this dish again feels like getting a warm hug from your kitchen.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the great things about Beef Bourguignon is its versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. You can add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or even green beans. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Alternatively, experimenting with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano can give the dish a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is best for slow cooking.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free beef broth and ensure the tomato paste is gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Just store in an airtight container and it will keep for up to 3 months.