Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that feels both special and comforting, Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is exactly what you need. This French classic gets a laid-back makeover in the slow cooker, allowing deep, sophisticated flavors to meld while you go about your day. Rich, fork-tender beef and hearty vegetables luxuriate in a wine-kissed sauce, making every spoonful as romantic as it is satisfying. Whether you’re setting the mood for Valentine’s Day or simply craving a dinner that delivers big on flavor without the fuss, Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon never disappoints.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather simple, wholesome ingredients that magically transform into something extraordinary after a day in the slow cooker. Each component pulls its weight—whether it’s building the sauce’s foundation, adding pops of color, or infusing every bite with aromatic depth.

• Beef chuck (2 lbs): Perfectly marbled chuck becomes meltingly tender after hours of slow braising.
• Red wine (1 cup, Burgundy or Pinot Noir): This gives the dish its signature deep flavor, so choose a wine you’d enjoy drinking!
• Beef broth (2 cups): Adds savory richness and develops the sauce’s luxurious texture.
• Medium onion, chopped: Sweetness and subtle earthiness that dissolve beautifully into the stew.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): A touch of aromatic warmth that’s unmistakable in every bite.
• Carrots (2 cups, sliced): Bring sweetness, color, and soft texture to balance the bold sauce.
• Mushrooms (2 cups, quartered): Soak up the sauce and provide meaty heartiness alongside the beef.
• Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Layered umami depth gives the sauce that classic glossy finish.
• Dried thyme (1 tsp): Earthy and herbal, thyme is essential for authentic Bourguignon flavor.
• Bay leaf (1): A fragrant, woody note that subtly perfumes the stew as it simmers.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into balance.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps brown the beef and sauté the veggies for extra flavor at the start.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): A bright, fresh finish to contrast the stew’s deep flavors.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until they’ve developed a richly browned crust. Don’t skip this step—it’s absolutely key for building savory, caramelized flavors that set the foundation for the sauce. Once browned, move the beef into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and just golden. Scooping up any browned bits left in the pan adds even more flavor. Transfer these aromatic veggies right into the slow cooker with the beef.

Step 3: Add the Veggies and Liquids

Layer in the carrots and mushrooms for heartiness, then pour in the red wine and beef broth. Swirl in the tomato paste, sprinkle over the dried thyme, drop in a bay leaf, and add salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine and evenly distribute all that flavor throughout the pot.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Pop the lid on and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. During this time, the beef becomes fall-apart tender while the sauce thickens and the vegetables soften. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible! When it’s done, discard the bay leaf.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, shower the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon with a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a bright, herbal finish. Now, all that’s left to do is ladle up hearty bowls and enjoy every bite.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Garnishes

A scattering of freshly chopped parsley is more than just a pop of color—it offers a vibrant lift against the rich, slow-simmered flavors of your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. If you like, add a crack of black pepper or a little zest of lemon for an extra hint of freshness.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely loves to be paired with classic sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up every drop of the luscious sauce, while a hunk of crusty French bread is perfect for mopping up whatever remains in your bowl. Buttered noodles or even a simple green salad round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re in the mood for something fun or elegant, try serving your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon in individual ramekins with puff pastry lids for a cozy pot pie twist. Or ladle it over parmesan polenta for rustic charm. For parties, serve in small bread bowls or over toasted baguette slices as a hearty appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen even more overnight, making day-old Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon extra delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion cooled beef bourguignon into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to 3 months—just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, gently reheat your leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce needs loosening. You can also use a microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring often to avoid uneven warming.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is classic for its rich marbling and tenderness, brisket or even stewing beef work well. Just make sure the pieces are trimmed of excess fat and cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

Is it necessary to brown the beef beforehand?

For maximum flavor, browning the beef first is highly recommended. It creates that deep, caramelized goodness that makes Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon so unforgettable. Skipping this step won’t ruin the dish, but you’ll miss out on a lot of savory depth.

Can I make this dish without wine?

If you need to skip the wine, substitute with more beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. The signature depth won’t be quite the same, but your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon will still turn out hearty and delicious.

What’s the best wine for Beef Bourguignon?

Choose a dry red wine you’d actually enjoy drinking—Burgundy or Pinot Noir are traditional and offer bright, nuanced flavors that balance the richness of the beef and sauce.

How do I thicken the sauce if needed?

If your sauce feels a bit thin after cooking, remove the lid and let it simmer in the slow cooker for another 30 minutes, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water to help it reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a favorite for both special occasions and cozy nights in. With minimal effort and maximum flavor payoff, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so extraordinary!

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