Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Description
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a rich, cozy French-inspired dish made with tender beef, mushrooms, carrots, onions, and a savory herb-infused sauce. Slow cooking allows the beef to become incredibly tender and flavorful.
Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 7–8 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes–8 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2½–3 lb beef chuck roast, cut into large cubes
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef: Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and brown the beef on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Cook the bacon: Add chopped bacon to the same skillet and cook until lightly crisp. Add the onion and carrots and cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add garlic and tomato paste: Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute.
- Deglaze: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir. Slowly add the red wine and beef broth, scraping up the browned bits from the skillet.
- Combine: Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Add mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
- Finish: Remove the bay leaves, taste, and adjust the seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve: Spoon the tender beef and vegetables over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or crusty bread.
Healthy Benefits
- Protein: Beef provides protein to support muscles and fullness.
- Vegetables: Carrots, mushrooms, onions, and garlic add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Slow cooking: Creates a flavorful meal without needing complicated preparation.
- Balanced meal: Pairing it with extra vegetables can make it a more nutrient-rich dinner.
Pro Tip
For the deepest flavor, brown the beef in batches instead of overcrowding the skillet. The browned bits left in the pan add wonderful flavor to the sauce.
Frequency
Enjoy this hearty meal as an occasional comfort-food dinner, especially during colder months. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Q/A
Can I make it without red wine?
Yes. Replace the wine with additional beef broth. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use another cut of beef?
Yes. Beef chuck is ideal, but another well-marbled stew beef can also work.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. The flavors often become even better after resting. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to about 3 months.
Serve
Serve hot with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Steamed rice
- Crusty French bread
- Roasted or steamed green vegetables
Variations
- Extra mushroom: Add more mushrooms for a richer vegetable flavor.
- Herb version: Add fresh thyme and parsley.
- Vegetable-loaded: Add pearl onions or extra carrots.
- Wine-free: Use extra beef broth instead of wine.
Related Recipe Ideas
- Slow Cooker Beef Roast
- Old-Fashioned Beef Stew
- French Onion Beef Stew
- Crockpot Chuck Roast
- Beef and Potato Stew
- Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites
Final Thought
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the kind of comforting meal that fills the kitchen with an incredible aroma while the slow cooker does most of the work. Tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich gravy make it perfect for a cozy family dinner.
