Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe Guide

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re seeking a rich, hearty, and flavorful meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day, this slow cooker beef bourguignon is the answer. Tender beef, robust vegetables, and a deeply savory sauce come together in a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a cozy family night or hosting a small gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

What is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef bourguignon, a traditional French dish, takes its name from the Burgundy region and features tender beef cooked in red wine. It’s a more refined version of a beef stew, boasting a velvety, aromatic sauce and layers of flavor that develop as it cooks. This slow cooker adaptation captures the essence of the classic recipe while making it simple enough for anyone to master.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?

This slow cooker beef bourguignon hits all the marks of a perfect comfort dish:

Incredibly tender beef that melts in your mouth.
A luxurious sauce that’s rich, thick, and full of depth.
Hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms that soak up all the delicious flavors.
Ease of preparation, thanks to the slow cooker, which does all the hard work for you.

Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Proteins and Main Ingredients

Beef Chuck: Opt for boneless beef chuck, which becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory base flavor to the dish.

Liquids and Flavor Boosters

Red Cooking Wine: Essential for the sauce’s depth and complexity. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind rich flavor.
Chicken Broth: Enhances the savory notes of the stew.
Tomato Sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and rounds out the sauce.
Soy Sauce: A surprising addition that amplifies umami flavors.

Thickening Agents and Spices

Flour: Thickens the sauce for a luxurious texture. Substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
Garlic Cloves: Provides aromatic depth with a slight kick.
Fresh Thyme: Delivers a fragrant, earthy note.

Vegetables

Carrots: Slice into thick rounds to retain their shape.
Baby Potatoes: Tri-color potatoes add a vibrant touch and hold up well during cooking.
Mushrooms: Crimini or button mushrooms work perfectly, adding a meaty texture and flavor.

Garnishes

Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh finishing touch.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this sumptuous dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Beef

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Remove and place in the slow cooker.
Sear the Beef: Season the beef chuck cubes with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, sear the beef in the bacon drippings for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Deglaze the Skillet: Pour the red cooking wine into the skillet, scraping up the flavorful browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly.
Add Remaining Liquids: Slowly stir in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Gradually whisk in the flour to avoid lumps. Simmer until slightly thickened, then pour over the beef and bacon in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the garlic, thyme, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set the Cooker: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 6 hours. The beef should be fork-tender, and the sauce should be thick and aromatic.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish before serving. Pair with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even buttered noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Expert Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon

Double Coat for Flavor: Searing the beef adds a caramelized layer of flavor that enhances the stew.
Wine Choice: A dry red wine like Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Chianti works best for this recipe.
Don’t Skip the Bacon: The smoky, savory base it creates is essential for the dish’s complexity.
Substitute Chicken Broth: If preferred, use beef broth for an even heartier flavor.
Reheat Like a Pro: Leftovers taste even better! Reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker to maintain the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?

Yes! Substitute the wine with additional broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will differ slightly but still be delicious.

What Meat Can I Use Instead of Chuck?

Beef brisket or stew meat are excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking times as needed.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What Are the Best Side Dishes?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread are classic pairings. A light green salad also complements the richness of the dish.