As the chill of winter settles in, there’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the comforting aroma of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon wafting through the air. This hearty French stew is the epitome of cozy dining, where melt-in-your-mouth beef and vibrant vegetables come together in a rich, aromatic sauce. I first discovered this recipe during a long, cold evening when the weight of a stressful week was begging for a delicious escape; one taste and I knew I had stumbled upon a treasure.
Imagine a weekday where dinner practically cooks itself while you tackle the day’s demands. With the magic of the slow cooker, you simply sear the beef, toss in a few ingredients, and let time do the rest! This dish not only enchants your taste buds but looks impressive enough to serve at gatherings – perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in with loved ones. Join me in bringing a touch of French elegance to your table with minimal fuss. Let’s dig into this classic recipe that’s bound to become a cherished staple in your home!
Why is Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe lets your slow cooker do the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other things while it works its magic.
Mouthwatering Aroma: The fragrant combination of red wine, garlic, and fresh thyme creates an inviting atmosphere in your home.
Comforting Flavors: You’ll enjoy a delightful layering of flavors with tender beef and hearty vegetables that warms your soul.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s family dinners or a cozy gathering, this dish impresses everyone and leaves them asking for seconds!
Versatile Ingredients: With easy swaps like mushrooms for beef or different vegetables, you can adapt it to your liking without losing its essence.
Hearty & Filling: Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew provides satisfying warmth and comfort in every spoonful.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Ingredients
• Perfect for cozy gatherings.
For the Stew
- Diced Bacon – Adds smokiness and flavor to the stew. Note: Use pancetta as a substitute for a richer taste.
- Boneless Beef Chuck Pieces – Main protein source, adds heartiness and texture. Note: Make sure to cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Red Cooking Wine – Enhances the stew’s depth. Note: Any dry red wine can be substituted; the alcohol cooks out during cooking.
- Chicken Broth – Provides liquid and savory flavors. Note: You can use beef broth for a richer flavor.
- Tomato Sauce – Introduces acidity and moisture to balance flavors. Note: Tomato paste can be used for a more concentrated flavor.
- Soy Sauce – Contributes umami and saltiness. Note: Reduced-sodium soy sauce works for a lighter option.
- Flour – Used to thicken the sauce. Note: Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free thickener.
- Minced Garlic Cloves – Offers pungent flavor. Note: Fresh garlic is recommended; 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder can be a substitute.
- Minced Thyme – Adds herbal notes. Note: Dried thyme is a possible substitute (use 1/3 the amount).
- Sliced Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture. Note: Any root vegetable can be swapped (e.g., parsnips).
- Baby Potatoes – Acts as a hearty, filling component. Note: You can use other small potatoes like Yukon Golds if desired.
- Sliced Fresh Mushrooms – Contributes earthiness and texture. Note: Any variety of mushrooms can be used.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness. Note: Optional; you can use chives for a different flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a wonderful smokiness to your stew.
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Sear the Beef: Season the boneless beef chuck pieces with salt and pepper. Sear in the bacon drippings until browned on all sides, which should take about 2-3 minutes each side. Then, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
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Deglaze the Skillet: Pour the red cooking wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Simmer briefly, then add chicken broth, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and flour. Whisk until well combined.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Add minced garlic, minced thyme, sliced carrots, baby potatoes, and sliced fresh mushrooms. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
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Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 6 hours, until the beef is tender and includes all the lovely flavors.
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Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This stew is fantastic served alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce.
Optional: For an added touch, serve with crusty bread to enjoy every drop of the stew!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the stew to cool before sealing to preserve flavor and texture.
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Freezer: This stew freezes beautifully! Portion the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon into freezer-safe containers and save for up to 3 months. Label with dates for easy identification.
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Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
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Airtight Storage: Use vacuum-sealed bags for freezing to avoid freezer burn. Ensure there’s minimal air in the bag before sealing to keep your stew deliciously fresh.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
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Sear the Beef Properly: Don’t skip browning the beef, as it develops essential flavors. Take your time for a rich base.
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Adjust Seasonings: Taste your stew before serving and adjust saltiness if needed. Soy sauce can be strong, so use it wisely!
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Add Fresh Herbs: Consider tossing in fresh herbs like rosemary for an additional depth of flavor that complements the slow cooker beef bourguignon beautifully.
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Layer Ingredients: Place heartier vegetables like potatoes on the bottom, so they cook evenly and soak up flavors.
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Cool for Flavor: Let the stew cool before storing; this can enhance the flavor mingling overnight, making for an even better meal reheated.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Variations
Explore these delightful twists that can make your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon even more enticing and personalized.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the beef with hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a rich flavor without the meat.
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Herb Fusion: Try fresh rosemary instead of thyme; it adds a fragrant twist that enhances the stew’s depth beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the rich flavors perfectly.
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Wine Swap: Use a full-bodied Merlot for a more robust taste, or try a splash of dry sherry for a unique depth.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for an extra layer of complexity in taste.
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Savory Sweetness: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the tomato and wine.
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Root Veggie Upgrade: Toss in parsnips or turnips instead of carrots for added sweetness and a heartier texture.
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Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream at the end to create a silky sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can sear the beef and cook the bacon up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them after cooling. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms) and store them in airtight containers for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, store the sauce separately and combine everything in the slow cooker only when ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, just pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables and let the slow cooker work its magic—dinner will be just as delicious without the weekday stress!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?
As you indulge in the rich, hearty flavors of slow-cooked perfection, let’s explore some delightful dishes that elevate your meal to new heights.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth and buttery texture serves as the perfect canvas to soak up the luscious, savory stew. They’re simply made for each other!
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Crusty French Bread: Ideal for sopping up every drop of that rich sauce, fresh bread adds a satisfying crunch to your cozy mea l.
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Garlic Green Beans: These vibrant, sautéed green beans bring a snap of freshness and contrast that complements the stew’s hearty richness beautifully.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant blend of rice and herbs creates a fragrant side that balances the bold flavors of the beef bourguignon, making every bite delightful.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Their sweet, caramelized flavors and tender texture provide a lovely contrast to the stew and enhance its rustic feeling.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: A bright, peppery salad with a zesty vinaigrette acts as a refreshing counterpoint to the comforting stew, elevating your dining experience.
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Red Wine: Pairing a glass of dry red wine enhances the meal with added depth, drawing on the stew’s own wine-infused flavors.
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Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finale, a rich chocolate mousse provides a decadent treat that rounds out the meal and leaves everyone with a smile.
Each of these pairings celebrates the comforting essence of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon while adding unique textures and flavors to your table.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs
What kind of wine is best for this recipe?
I highly recommend using a dry red cooking wine, as it enhances the depth of the stew. A Pinot Noir or Merlot works wonderfully, and don’t worry—the alcohol cooks off during the slow cooking process, leaving behind all the rich flavors.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before sealing, make sure the stew has cooled completely to preserve both its flavor and texture as it sits.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This hearty stew freezes beautifully. Portion the beef bourguignon into freezer-safe containers or vacuum-sealed bags and it will stay delicious for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date for easy reference later.
What should I do if my stew is too thick?
If you find your stew has turned out too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of beef broth or water before serving. Stir well to combine and warm it gently on the stovetop. This will loosen the sauce while still keeping all the wonderful flavors intact.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Good question! This recipe contains soy sauce, which may not be suitable for those with soy allergies. To adapt, you can use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. For a richer flavor without meat, consider substituting beef with hearty mushrooms and using vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
How can I tell if my beef is tender?
You’ll know your beef is tender when it falls apart easily with a fork. If it’s still tough after the recommended cooking time, it might need a little more love—simply cover and continue to cook on low until it achieves that melt-in-your-mouth goodness, usually within another hour or so.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sear the Beef: Season the boneless beef chuck pieces with salt and pepper. Sear in the bacon drippings until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes each side. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Deglaze the Skillet: Pour the red cooking wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer briefly, then add chicken broth, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and flour. Whisk until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Add minced garlic, minced thyme, sliced carrots, baby potatoes, and sliced fresh mushrooms. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook the Stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 6 hours until the beef is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread.