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, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy); 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 carrots, sliced; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved; 8 oz mushrooms, quartered; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful dish, Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the rich aromas filling your kitchen.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:15:59.146Z

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that combines tender beef, rich red wine, and aromatic vegetables to create a symphony of flavors. This recipe allows you to enjoy the complexities of this dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender beef that falls apart with a fork
Deep, rich flavors from slow cooking
Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests

      

The Essence of Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich and hearty flavors of Beef Bourguignon. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, this classic dish combines tender chunks of beef with aromatic vegetables and a lush red wine sauce. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a meal that's not just filling but also deeply satisfying.

As the dish simmers in the slow cooker, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the dinner table. Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, Beef Bourguignon sets the perfect ambiance for a memorable meal.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Bourguignon

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, consider using a good quality red wine. A Burgundy wine is traditional, but any full-bodied red will work well. The wine not only enhances the flavor of the beef but also helps to tenderize it during the cooking process, making each bite melt in your mouth.

Don't rush the searing process! Searing the beef cubes until they are browned on all sides builds a rich, complex flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. If your slow cooker allows for it, you can sear the beef directly in the pot to save on dishes and enhance the flavors further.

Pairing Suggestions

Beef Bourguignon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for any meal. A classic accompaniment is a crusty baguette or rustic bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. If you're looking for something heartier, serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles for a filling experience.

For a lighter option, consider a side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to your plate, making the meal both visually appealing and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Beef Bourguignon

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
4 carrots, sliced
1 lb baby potatoes, halved
8 oz mushrooms, quartered
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Sear the Beef

In the same skillet, sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Add Vegetables and Liquids

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms to the slow cooker. Stir in the cooked bacon, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, Beef Bourguignon stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making the leftovers almost as delicious as the first serving.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If you're in a hurry, the microwave works well too; just cover it to retain moisture. Add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out during reheating.

Freezing for Future Meals

Beef Bourguignon also freezes exceptionally well, which makes it a great meal prep option. After cooking, let the dish cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This means you can have a gourmet meal ready to go with minimal effort on busy nights!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure that your beef broth and any other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ 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.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite root vegetables or green beans.