Delicious slow cooker beef bourguignon with tender beef and rich sauce

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a fantastic dish for anyone who loves rich and hearty meals. It's not just about the amazing flavors; it's also about how easy it is to prepare. Using a slow cooker allows you to set the meal up in the morning and come back later to a delicious, comforting dinner. Plus, the beef becomes incredibly tender as it cooks low and slow. It's a perfect recipe for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or cozy weekends.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Making Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is simple and straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these easy steps, and you'll serve a meal that will impress everyone!

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For thickening:

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)

Optional non-alcoholic version:

Substitute wine with additional beef broth and a splash of vinegar.

Directions

In a large bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until they are well coated.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, keeping the rendered fat in the skillet.
In batches, brown the beef in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker as you go.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute.
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for a short time.
Add the beef broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the wine mixture. Stir to combine everything well.
Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Then, add the cooked bacon and quartered mushrooms. Stir everything together.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
If you like a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, crusty French bread, or a green salad.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

To serve this dish, simply ladle out the Beef Bourguignon into bowls. You can place some mashed potatoes or crusty bread on the side. The sauce is rich and flavorful, making it perfect to soak up with bread. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a green salad.

How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Brown the Beef: Make sure to brown the beef well in the skillet. This adds a lot of flavors to the dish.
Use Good Wine: Choose a good quality red wine for the best flavor. It doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be drinkable.
Don't Rush the Cooking: If you can, cook it on low for the full time. This makes the beef even more tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end. You want the dish to be just right for your family's taste.

Variation

If you want to try a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the red wine with extra beef broth and a splash of vinegar. This still gives a nice flavor without the alcohol.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! You can use other cuts like brisket or round, but beef chuck is the best for tenderness.

2. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add potatoes, peas, or any hearty vegetables you like.

3. Is it necessary to use wine?
While the wine adds depth, you can skip it and use more beef broth if you prefer.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish full of flavor that everyone will love. Remember to adjust the ingredients to your taste, and enjoy the process of making this comforting meal. Happy cooking!