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 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices bacon, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, sliced; 2 cups mushrooms, quartered; 2 cups red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Delights

Experience the rich flavors of classic French cuisine with this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. Perfectly tender beef simmered in a red wine sauce with vegetables makes for a comforting meal.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:01:02.291Z

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that transforms tough cuts of meat into a tender, flavorful meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors of red wine, herbs, and vegetables to meld beautifully, creating a dish that's perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.

You'll Love This Recipe Because
Rich, deep flavors that only get better overnight
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth
Minimal effort with maximum flavor thanks to the slow cooker

The Essence of French Cooking

French cuisine is renowned for its depth of flavor and intricate techniques, but this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon simplifies the classic dish without sacrificing authenticity. By slow-cooking the ingredients, the rich notes of red wine meld beautifully with the tender beef and fresh vegetables, creating a hearty, comforting meal that transports you straight to the French countryside. Even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family dinners.

The use of beef chuck in this recipe is essential. This cut is known for its marbling and tenderness when cooked slowly, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the broth and wine. Coupled with the aromatic elements of thyme and bay leaves, each bite is a celebration of rustic French flavors that will leave your guests impressed.

Perfect Pairings

When serving Beef Bourguignon, consider pairing it with a robust red wine that complements the dish's flavor profile. A Pinot Noir or Merlot works beautifully, enhancing the wine notes in the stew and making for an exquisite dining experience. Additionally, a loaf of crusty French bread is a must-have for sopping up the delicious sauce, ensuring that none of the rich flavors go to waste.

For sides, creamy mashed potatoes are a traditional favorite, providing a smooth contrast to the hearty stew. Alternatively, a side of green beans or a simple mixed salad can add freshness and balance to the meal. The versatility of Beef Bourguignon allows you to tailor your sides to suit your preferences and make the meal uniquely yours.

Storing and Reheating

One of the remarkable qualities of Beef Bourguignon is that it often tastes even better the next day. The flavors continue to marry as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months for longer preservation.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to maintain the desired consistency. The slow cooker can also be used for reheating, allowing the dish to warm through while keeping it tender. Enjoy the comforting taste of this classic dish, even days later!

Ingredients

For the Beef Bourguignon

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices bacon, diced
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, quartered
2 cups red wine
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked bacon, onion, garlic, carrots, mushrooms, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well blended.

Serve

Remove bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your Beef Bourguignon with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes!

Pro Tips

For even richer flavor, let the stew sit overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, it’s important to take your time while preparing the ingredients. Browning the beef and cooking the bacon first creates a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. Don't skip these steps! Additionally, choosing a good quality red wine will significantly impact the flavor of your stew, so select one that you would enjoy drinking.

Using fresh herbs is also beneficial. While dried herbs can be substituted, fresh thyme adds a fragrant, vibrant note that elevates the dish. If you have any leftovers, consider adding them to other recipes to infuse them with that wonderful Bourguignon flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving Beef Bourguignon with a side of traditional French Ratatouille. This colorful vegetable medley adds a lovely touch of freshness to your plate. Alternatively, a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

If you're hosting a dinner party, consider starting with a light appetizer, such as a cheese platter featuring Brie and a variety of crackers. This sets a lovely tone for the meal, and guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness of your menu.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, ensure that the beef broth and red wine are gluten-free, and replace any flour used with a gluten-free alternative.

→ 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! Potatoes, parsnips, or green beans can be great additions.