Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: Tender, Hearty, and Full of Flavor

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the ultimate comfort food. This classic French dish delivers deep, rich flavors, tender beef, and a hearty blend of vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply want an easy, satisfying meal after a long day, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and convenience.

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What Is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon, also called Boeuf Bourguignon, is a traditional French stew originating from the Burgundy region. It’s known for its bold combination of beef braised in red wine, paired with simmered vegetables and aromatic herbs. This dish has roots as a hearty meal for laborers and has since evolved into a beloved comfort food enjoyed worldwide.

Why Make It in a Slow Cooker?

Making Beef Bourguignon in a slow cooker streamlines the cooking process while intensifying its flavors. The slow, consistent heat allows the meat to become ultra-tender and ensures the rich blend of wine, broth, and seasonings melds into a perfectly robust sauce. A slow cooker also minimizes active cooking time, so you can focus on other tasks while dinner practically makes itself.

The French Roots of the Dish

This classic dish was traditionally prepared in large, heavy pots over a low flame. Adapting it for the slow cooker maintains its authenticity while adding a modern convenience. Perfect for cold nights, family gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week, slow cooker Beef Bourguignon offers all its luxurious flavor with a fraction of the effort.

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty dish:

• 2 lbs of beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 cups of red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Burgundy (substitute beef broth if avoiding alcohol)
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 8 oz of mushrooms, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp thyme
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp cornstarch or 3 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

These staples create a perfectly balanced, savory dish.

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Essential Kitchen Tools

Here are the tools you’ll need to master this recipe:

• Slow cooker or Crockpot (6-quart capacity recommended)
• Skillet (for browning the beef)
• Chopping board and knife
• Ladle and tongs

Having the right tools on hand ensures smooth preparation.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prep the Ingredients

• Slice carrots, onions, celery, and mushrooms. Mince garlic. Pat beef chunks dry with paper towels, then season liberally with salt and pepper.

Step 2 – Sear the Beef

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned for a richer, caramelized flavor. Work in batches if necessary.

Step 3 – Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

• Place the seared beef at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sliced vegetables, garlic, and mushrooms on top. Mix in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme.

Step 4 – Cook Low and Slow

• Pour the red wine and beef broth over the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until beef is tender.

Step 5 – Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

• For a thicker sauce, remove ½ cup of liquid from the slow cooker, whisk it with cornstarch or flour, then mix it back into the pot. Cook uncovered on high for 15 minutes.

Step 6 – Garnish and Serve

• Remove bay leaves, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish, and serve warm.

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Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon

• Best Meat Cuts: Use beef chuck or stew meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Wine Substitutions: If you prefer to skip wine, use an equal amount of beef broth for a still-flavorful dish.
• Vegetable Texture: To avoid overcooked vegetables, cut them into larger chunks or add halfway through the cooking process.
• Make It Ahead and Freeze: This dish tastes even better the next day. Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

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What to Serve with Beef Bourguignon

Pair this hearty stew with one of these options for an unforgettable meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy base to soak up the rich sauce.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every drop of flavor.
• Rice or Noodles: For a satisfying twist.
• Side Salad: A fresh counterpoint to the richness of the dish.

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Tips: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out the meat.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make It Without Wine?

Absolutely! Substitute the wine with additional beef broth for a wine-free version.

What’s the Difference Between Stew and Bourguignon?

While both are hearty beef dishes, Bourguignon is distinguished by its use of red wine and French-inspired seasonings.

Can I Use a Pressure Cooker Instead?

Yes! You can adapt this recipe for a pressure cooker to significantly reduce the cook time.

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Printable Recipe Card

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe Card

[Include printable recipe card with formatted ingredients, instructions, and cooking time for WordPress WP Recipe Maker plugin.]

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Related Recipes to Try

Looking for more cozy meals? Check out these related recipes:

• [Easy Beef Stew in Slow Cooker]
• [French Onion Chicken Bake]
• [Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff]

By following this recipe, you’ll enjoy a classic, slow-cooked French treasure that feels like a gourmet meal without the fuss. Bon appétit!