If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, look no further than Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. This classic French dish is the epitome of comfort food, with melt-in-your-mouth beef, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce that brings everything together in perfect harmony. Best of all, it’s made effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy this gourmet meal with minimal effort.
What is Beef Bourguignon?
Beef Bourguignon, also known as Boeuf Bourguignon, is a traditional French stew made with beef braised in red wine, typically from the Burgundy region (hence the name). The dish often includes a mix of vegetables such as carrots, onions, and potatoes, and is flavored with garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. A rich sauce, often thickened with flour and enriched with bacon, rounds out the dish and creates a deeply comforting, hearty meal. While the classic method involves stovetop or oven braising, this slow cooker version makes it even easier to prepare, ensuring you get the same incredible flavor with less time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
There’s something magical about the way a slow cooker transforms tough cuts of meat into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Beef chuck is perfect for this dish as it slowly breaks down during cooking, absorbing all the flavors from the sauce and vegetables. The result is a deeply flavorful, comforting stew that will have you coming back for seconds.
This version of Beef Bourguignon is ideal for colder months when you’re craving something warm and filling. The sauce, which starts with a base of red cooking wine and chicken broth, is rich and savory, with a perfect balance of acidity and richness. Paired with crispy bacon and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
To make this delicious slow-cooked beef stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 5 slices of bacon, finely chopped (for that smoky, savory flavor)
- 3 lbs. boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes (this is the star of the dish)
- 1 cup red cooking wine (adds depth and richness to the sauce)
- 2 cups chicken broth (for a savory, flavorful base)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (provides a bit of sweetness and acidity)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (adds an umami boost to the flavor)
- 1/4 cup flour (to help thicken the sauce)
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped (for a savory aromatic base)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped (for a herby, fragrant flavor)
- 5 medium carrots, sliced (adds sweetness and texture)
- 1 lb. baby potatoes, I used tri-color (for a pop of color and heartiness)
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (adds earthy flavor and texture)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (adds freshness and a bit of color)
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect beef bourguignon in your slow cooker:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Beef
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to the slow cooker, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet to sear on all sides for 2-3 minutes. This step helps to lock in the flavors of the beef and gives it a rich, brown crust. Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker with the cooked bacon.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pan
Add the red wine to the skillet, scraping up any brown bits left from the beef and bacon. These caramelized bits are full of flavor and will make the sauce even richer. Allow the wine to simmer for a few minutes, letting it reduce slightly.
Next, slowly add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Gradually whisk in the flour to help thicken the sauce. Once everything is well combined, pour the sauce over the beef and bacon in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Now, it’s time to add the rest of the ingredients. Toss in the garlic, thyme, carrots, baby potatoes, and mushrooms. Stir everything together, ensuring that the beef and vegetables are evenly distributed in the sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 6 hours. The low and slow cooking process will tenderize the beef and allow the flavors to meld together perfectly. The beef should be fork-tender, and the vegetables should be soft and flavorful.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the cooking time is complete, give the stew a good stir. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley to add a burst of color and freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even a side of rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
- Use quality beef: For the best results, use boneless beef chuck or beef stew meat. This cut becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow and absorbs all the flavors of the sauce.
- Don’t skip the bacon: The bacon adds an essential depth of flavor to the dish. Be sure to cook it until crispy to maximize its effect on the sauce.
- Be patient: Slow cooking is the key to creating tender beef. Don’t rush the process—allow the stew to cook for the full amount of time so the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt or pepper can enhance the flavor.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Cold Weather
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the ultimate comfort food for those chilly days when you want something filling and warming. The slow-cooked beef, rich wine-based sauce, and tender vegetables make for a hearty, satisfying meal that will fill your home with delicious aromas. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress and delight.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is an easy yet impressive way to enjoy a classic French dish without spending all day in the kitchen. With its tender beef, savory bacon, and flavorful sauce, it’s the perfect meal for those cold winter nights. Set it and forget it, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s packed with incredible flavor.