Name: Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 7 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes; 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (like Burgundy or Pinot Noir); 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a delightful twist on the classic French dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. This recipe allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of tender beef simmered in a luscious red wine sauce without spending all day in the kitchen. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes (low) or 4 hours 20 minutes (high)
Servings: 6 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 480
Protein: 40 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 5 grams
Sodium: 850 mg

Why Make This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon brings together the comforting flavors of a traditional beef stew with the depth of red wine and aromatic herbs. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef to perfection and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s an ideal meal for chilly nights, special occasions, or whenever you want to impress family and friends with minimal effort. Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it cooks will make it hard to resist.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Ingredients:

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
1 bottle (750ml) red wine (like Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Mixing in the Vegetables

Add the sliced carrots and mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. This step enhances their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cooking in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed vegetable mixture to the slow cooker. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, then stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender. Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is best served with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the savory sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, allowing you to soak up all the delicious juices. For a complete meal, consider serving a fresh green salad or some steamed green vegetables on the side.

How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Beef chuck works best due to its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness during slow cooking.
Quality Wine Matters: Use a wine you enjoy drinking; the flavor will concentrate as it cooks, enhancing the dish.
Don’t Skip Browning: Searing the beef adds rich flavors that are essential for a delicious stew.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the stew towards the end of cooking and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well, adding fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the freshness of the dish.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Bourguignon: Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like eggplant or hearty beans, and use vegetable broth and red wine.
Add More Vegetables: Consider adding potatoes, parsnips, or turnips for additional flavors and textures.
Spicy Twist: Introduce a bit of heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe stores well. You can prepare it a day ahead and simply reheat before serving.
Is it necessary to brown the beef?
Browning the beef adds significant flavor. While you can skip this step, your dish will benefit from it.
What type of wine should I use?
Choose a dry red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the taste.
Can I use other cuts of meat?
While beef chuck is recommended, you can also use brisket or round, but ensure they have enough fat for tenderness.
What can I serve with this dish?
Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles are great accompaniments to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a heartfelt recipe that combines rich flavors, comforting textures, and a simple preparation process. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that tastes as good as it looks! Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you, and your friends and family will surely be impressed. Enjoy your culinary adventure!