Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish, perfect for cozy dinners. The beef is tender and infused with rich flavors, making it a comforting meal.
Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French stew that offers depth of flavor and a satisfying meal. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows the beef to become incredibly tender while absorbing the rich wine and herb-infused sauce. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory flavors enhanced by red wine and herbs
- Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that's easy to prepare
- Perfect for meal prep or special occasions
A Classic French Comfort Food
Beef Bourguignon, often regarded as the ultimate French comfort food, is a dish that encapsulates the essence of rustic French cooking. With its origins in the Burgundy region, this hearty stew is celebrated for its rich flavors and tender meat. The slow-cooked beef, infused with red wine and aromatic herbs, creates a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the heart.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using a slow cooker means you can achieve that deep, complex flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Just set it and forget it! This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the perfect dish to impress your guests. Its elegant presentation and gourmet taste make it suitable for formal occasions, while its comforting nature makes it a favorite among families. Pair it with a crusty baguette or creamy mashed potatoes to create an unforgettable meal.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Add seasonal vegetables or adjust the herbs to suit your taste. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, ensuring that every variation still yields a delicious result.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the standout benefits of this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors only get better with time, making it a dish that tastes even more delightful on the second day.
To store, simply let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll have a delicious homemade meal in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound small potatoes, halved
- 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon for a seamless cooking experience.
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Brown the Beef
In the same skillet, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the dish.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the bacon, onions, carrots, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender. About 30 minutes before serving, add the potatoes and mushrooms.
Serve
Once cooked, remove the bay leaves and serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes!
Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon
To elevate your Beef Bourguignon, consider using high-quality red wine, as it directly impacts the flavor of the dish. A good Burgundy wine will add depth and richness, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, don’t skip the browning step for the beef; this caramelization adds a beautiful color and robust flavor.
Another tip is to let the beef marinate in the wine overnight if time allows. This not only deepens the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Just remember to drain the beef before cooking to avoid excess liquid in your stew.
Pairing Suggestions
For an authentic experience, serve your Beef Bourguignon with a side of crusty French bread. This will allow you to soak up the delicious sauce and add a satisfying crunch to your meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the stew, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
When it comes to wine pairing, stick with a red wine similar to what you used in cooking. A Pinot Noir or a light Merlot can enhance the dining experience while maintaining the dish's French roots. This harmonious pairing will create a memorable meal for you and your guests.
Storing and Reheating
When it comes to storing your leftovers, make sure to let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan on keeping it longer, freezing is the best option. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual servings, making it convenient for quick lunches. If the stew appears thick after reheating, a splash of beef broth or water can help restore its original consistency.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness after cooking.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
→ What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?
Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish, perfect for cozy dinners. The beef is tender and infused with rich flavors, making it a comforting meal.
Created by: Harriet Mason
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound small potatoes, halved
- 8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
In the same skillet, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the dish.
Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Add the bacon, onions, carrots, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender. About 30 minutes before serving, add the potatoes and mushrooms.
Once cooked, remove the bay leaves and serve the Beef Bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g