If you’ve ever dreamed of making a classic French comfort dish without standing over the stove all day, this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Tender cubes of stewing beef slowly bathed in rich red wine, aromatic herbs, and hearty vegetables come together effortlessly in the slow cooker, delivering a spectacular meal that tastes like it simmered for hours in a gourmet kitchen. The deep flavors, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the ease of letting your slow cooker do the work makes this recipe an absolute showstopper for any cozy dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe is in its simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing something unique to the table. From the tenderizing flour coating the beef to the vibrant carrots and mushrooms that add color and texture, every element works in harmony to create that soulful, satisfying flavor that makes this dish a classic.
- 2 pounds stewing beef: Choose well-marbled beef for the best tenderness after slow cooking.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the sauce and gives the beef a lovely crust when browning.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right subtle kick and depth.
- 4 tablespoons olive oil: Used for browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides rich, savory undertones that infuse the entire dish.
- 1 onion, chopped: Builds the flavor foundation with sweetness as it cooks down.
- 2 cups beef broth: The heart of the sauce, bringing rich meaty goodness.
- 1 cup red wine: Adds acidity and complexity, making the sauce beautifully robust.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the sauce’s flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herb notes complement the wine and beef perfectly.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse the stew with a subtle, aromatic bitterness that balances richness.
- 1 pound small potatoes, halved: They soak up the delicious sauce while adding hearty texture.
- 4 large carrots, chopped: Bring natural sweetness and a bit of brightness.
- 1/2 pound mushrooms, quartered: Earthy and tender, mushrooms add umami and depth.
- 1/2 cup frozen pearl onions: Melt-in-your-mouth bites that add a lovely pop of flavor.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: A bright, fresh finish that makes this rustic dish shine.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Coat the Beef
Start by trimming any extra fat off your stewing beef and cutting it into bite-sized 1-inch cubes. Toss the beef in a bowl with the flour, salt, and black pepper. This coating gives the beef a little crust when browned and helps thicken the stew later on. It’s a simple step that makes all the difference in creating that luscious sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat half of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches so they sear beautifully without overcrowding the pan. This caramelization builds deep, complex flavors that elevate the dish from good to unforgettable. Once browned, transfer the beef into your slow cooker to get ready for the next step.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in your minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and softened. These aromatics are essential for layering flavor, filling your kitchen with an inviting scent, and creating the stew’s savory backbone. Then transfer them directly into the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Herbs
Pour beef broth, red wine, and tomato paste into the slow cooker. Stir gently, mixing the tomato paste evenly into the liquids to bring out its rich flavor. Sprinkle in dried thyme and add the bay leaves, which will slowly infuse their subtle herbal aroma into the stew during cooking. Cover your slow cooker, and let the flavors marry on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours until the beef is meltingly tender.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
When the beef is nearly done, add the halved potatoes, chopped carrots, quartered mushrooms, and frozen pearl onions to the slow cooker. These vegetables soak up all the delicious juices during the last 1 to 2 hours of cooking, becoming tender and bursting with flavor. Keep the lid on and let the slow cooker work its magic until everything is perfectly cooked through.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Once cooking is complete, discard the bay leaves, taste the stew, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish generously with fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe hot, and prepare to delight in every savory, tender bite.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic garnish here, bringing a light, herbaceous contrast to the rich sauce. Feel free to sprinkle some finely chopped chives or a few fresh thyme leaves for an extra garden-fresh appeal that brightens each mouthful instantly.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own with the hearty potatoes and vegetables, but you can elevate your meal with a crusty baguette or warm buttered noodles to soak up every luscious drop of sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also adds a crisp balance to the rich stew, making the meal feel complete and indulgently satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner, serve the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe in rustic bowls or deep plates to highlight the comforting nature of the dish. You can also spoon it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles for an elegant twist. And if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan or a dollop of crème fraîche on top for a decadent, creamy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover beef bourguignon tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to keep that rich sauce perfect.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for an easy gourmet meal whenever you need it.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to warm evenly. You can also microwave it covered in bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While stewing beef is preferred for its tenderness when slow-cooked, you can also use chuck roast cut into cubes. Avoid lean cuts as they tend to dry out during long cooking times.
Is red wine necessary in the recipe?
Red wine adds depth and acidity to the sauce that is traditional in beef bourguignon. However, you can substitute with additional beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar tang if you prefer to skip the alcohol.
Can I prepare this without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this dish on the stovetop or in a Dutch oven by braising it gently over low heat for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the beef is tender. Just be sure to stir occasionally and keep an eye on the liquid levels.
Why are pearl onions used in this recipe?
Pearl onions are small, sweet, and tender, providing a subtle contrast to the rich beef and velvety sauce. They become melt-in-your-mouth delicious and add a lovely texture that complements the other vegetables.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If your sauce is thinner than you like, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the stew. Let it cook uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a timeless French classic with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The slow cooker brings tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich wine sauce together into a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delicious memory with your loved ones!
