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 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices bacon, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound cremini mushrooms, halved; 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich, savory flavors of this classic French dish, effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:29:02.476Z

This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for chilly evenings. Letting the beef simmer slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that's as delicious as it is effortless.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
A rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect with crusty bread
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup

      

A Taste of France

Beef Bourguignon is one of the jewels of French cuisine, celebrated for its deep, hearty flavors. Originating from the Burgundy region, this dish highlights the region's renowned red wine, which not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the beef. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying meal that transports you straight to the heart of France with every bite.

Traditionally, Beef Bourguignon is a labor-intensive dish, requiring hours of simmering and careful preparation. However, this slow cooker version simplifies the process without compromising on taste. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner where you want to impress your family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Perfect Pairings

Beef Bourguignon is best enjoyed with a side of crusty French bread, perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. The bread complements the dish perfectly, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender meat. Additionally, a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the stew, making for a well-rounded meal.

For a more substantial side, consider serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles. These sides not only make the dish heartier but also absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is a taste sensation. A glass of the same red wine used in the dish makes for an excellent pairing, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best flavor, opt for a good quality red wine that you would enjoy drinking. The wine should be bold and rich, as it will significantly influence the final taste of your Beef Bourguignon. Additionally, don't skip the browning step; searing the meat and vegetables develops complex flavors that elevate the dish.

If you're looking to customize your Beef Bourguignon, feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or potatoes for extra texture and taste. You can also experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or parsley to give it a unique twist. Just be cautious not to overpower the traditional flavors that make this dish so beloved.

Ingredients

For the Beef Bourguignon

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound cremini mushrooms, halved
2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before starting your slow cooker.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Brown the Beef

Add the beef cubes to the skillet and brown on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.

Sauté Vegetables

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

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the red wine and beef broth, then add tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and the reserved bacon. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender. In the last hour, add the mushrooms.

Thicken Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix flour with a little water and stir into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serve

Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes!

Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the stew. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.

Nutritional Benefits

Beef Bourguignon is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It also provides important vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which play vital roles in energy production and overall health.

The addition of vegetables like carrots and onions adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to the dish, making it a well-rounded meal. While it is a hearty dish, serving it with lighter sides can help balance the meal and maintain nutritional integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use sirloin or brisket, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply omit the flour or use a gluten-free thickener.

→ What sides pair well with Beef Bourguignon?

Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad are great accompaniments.