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 pieces; 6 strips of bacon, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy); 3 large carrots, sliced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 pound baby potatoes, halved; 1 cup pearl onions, peeled

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that transforms tender beef and rich flavors into a comforting meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:56:35.213Z

Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French stew that showcases the rich flavors of slow-cooked beef. Originating from the Burgundy region, this dish combines hearty ingredients and a full-bodied red wine for an unforgettable meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender beef that melts in your mouth
Deep, savory flavors enhanced by red wine
Easy preparation with minimal hands-on time
Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions

      

A Taste of France at Home

Beef Bourguignon is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings the flavors of France right to your kitchen. This dish has its roots in the Burgundy region, where the local beef is simmered with a rich red wine, creating a deep and savory flavor profile. With just a few simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you can recreate this classic French dish without the fuss of traditional methods.

The beauty of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to achieve restaurant-quality results. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, allowing the beef to become tender and the vegetables to soak up the aromatic broth. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a special occasion, Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon fits the bill. It’s a comforting dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. The rich flavors and tender textures make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that your guests will rave about your cooking long after the meal is over.

Moreover, this dish is incredibly versatile. Pair it with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a casual evening, or serve it with mashed potatoes for a more formal dinner. The possibilities are endless, making it a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire.

Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon

To enhance the flavor of your Beef Bourguignon, consider using a good quality red wine. Burgundy is traditional, but any full-bodied red will work beautifully. The wine not only adds depth to the stew but also helps to tenderize the beef as it cooks. Remember, if you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it!

Additionally, don't skip the browning step. Searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker creates a robust base of flavor that will elevate your dish. Taking a few extra minutes to caramelize the onions and garlic can make all the difference in the final taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
6 strips of bacon, diced
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy)
3 large carrots, sliced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 pound baby potatoes, halved
1 cup pearl onions, peeled

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the skillet. Add the beef in batches, browning on all sides.

Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add to the slow cooker with the bacon.

Combine Ingredients

Add the beef broth, red wine, carrots, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

Thicken the Stew

About 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the stew along with the potatoes and pearl onions. Cook until the potatoes are tender.

Serve

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

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Beef Bourguignon, you’re in luck! This dish stores beautifully and can even taste better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Simply transfer the stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. If the stew is too thick after refrigerating, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Beef Bourguignon with crusty French bread to soak up the rich sauce, or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. A side of sautéed green beans or a simple salad can add a fresh contrast to the richness of the stew.

For an authentic touch, consider garnishing with fresh parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor with a fresh herbal note.

Wine Pairing

When it comes to wine pairing, continue the theme of Burgundy by enjoying a glass of the same red wine you used in your Beef Bourguignon. The flavors of the wine will echo those in the dish, creating a harmonious dining experience.

If you prefer white wine, a crisp Chardonnay can also complement the meal nicely, especially if you serve it with a lighter side dish. Remember, the key is to choose a wine that you enjoy drinking, as it will enhance your overall meal experience.

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 substitute for red wine?

You can use additional beef broth or a non-alcoholic red wine alternative.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, Beef Bourguignon freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables.