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 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices of bacon, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A classic French dish made easy with the slow cooker, packed with rich flavors and tender beef.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:06:01.161Z

This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a comforting and hearty dish that captures the essence of French cuisine. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s a meal that warms the heart and soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender beef that melts in your mouth
Rich, deep flavors from slow cooking
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

The Essence of French Cooking

French cuisine is renowned for its depth of flavor and meticulous techniques, and Beef Bourguignon is a prime example. This dish showcases how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary through careful preparation and slow cooking. The slow cooker makes it accessible for home cooks, allowing you to enjoy a classic French meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Using quality ingredients is crucial for achieving that rich, authentic taste. Opt for a full-bodied red wine, such as Burgundy or Merlot, to enhance the flavor profile. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in tender beef and a sauce that is both savory and aromatic. It’s a comforting dish that brings the warmth of French bistro dining right to your home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a versatile dish that suits any occasion. Its hearty nature makes it particularly popular during colder months, but it can also be enjoyed year-round. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce, or over creamy mashed potatoes for a filling meal that will leave everyone satisfied.

Furthermore, this recipe is ideal for meal prepping. You can prepare a large batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it a perfect candidate for your weekly meal prep routine. Just reheat and serve, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.

Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, consider a few key tips. First, don’t rush the browning process of the beef and bacon; this step is crucial for developing flavor. Make sure to brown the meat in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough, as overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.

Additionally, feel free to customize the dish according to your preferences. Add more vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra nutrition, or adjust the herbs to suit your taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying the traditional flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Beef Bourguignon

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices of bacon, diced
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Beef Bourguignon:

Prepare the Bacon

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

Sear the Beef

Add the beef cubes to the skillet, searing on all sides until browned. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add onions, carrots, and garlic, sautéing until softened. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked bacon, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in mushrooms.

Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious homemade Beef Bourguignon!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of wine should I use for Beef Bourguignon? A good quality red wine is essential for this recipe. Burgundy is traditional, but you can also use Pinot Noir or Merlot. Avoid cooking wines, as they often contain added salt and preservatives that can affect the flavor.

Can I use a different cut of beef? While beef chuck is the recommended cut for its tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like brisket or round. Just be aware that cooking times may vary based on the cut you choose.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Bourguignon pairs beautifully with crusty French bread, which is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce. You might also consider serving it with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to balance the meal. For a comforting touch, a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the presentation.

For a complete dining experience, serve this dish alongside a glass of the same red wine used in cooking. This not only complements the flavors but also enhances the overall enjoyment of your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance and reheated, the flavors will deepen.

→ What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

It's great served with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or rice to soak up the sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.