Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the ultimate weekend comfort dish that transforms tough cuts of beef into tender morsels. This classic French stew is a celebration of rich flavors, combining juicy beef chuck, aromatic vegetables, and a delightful sauce that warms the heart. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that feels gourmet, making it perfect for cozy evenings spent with family or friends.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

This beef bourguignon recipe is not only delicious but also practical for busy lifestyles. Here are a few reasons to love it:

• Effortless preparation: Simply throw the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich, deep flavors that develop over time, making every bite a delight.
• Perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Gluten-free option available by choosing the right broth.
• A classic French beef stew that impresses any guest.
• Flexible ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables.

Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this easy beef bourguignon will elevate your culinary skills while satisfying your taste buds.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Gather these items:

• Beef Chuck Roast, cut into 1.5 to 2-inch cubes
• Thick-Cut Bacon, cut into lardons
• Non-Alcoholic Red Wine Substitute or beef broth combined with unsweetened cranberry or grape juice
• Pearl Onions
• Mushrooms (Cremini or Button), quartered or halved
• Carrots, sliced into thick rounds or chunks
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato Paste
• Beef Broth (Low Sodium)
• All-Purpose Flour
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaf)
• Potatoes (Optional), diced waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Pat your beef chuck cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cut your bacon into lardons, roughly chop your onion, and slice your carrots into thick rounds or chunks. Mince your garlic.
2. Step 2: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high. Working in batches, add the floured beef cubes to the hot bacon fat and sear on all sides until beautifully browned. Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker.
4. Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Pour in your non-alcoholic red wine substitute (or beef broth/juice mixture) into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the beef broth, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaf.
6. Step 6: Pour the entire contents of the skillet over the seared beef in the slow cooker and give everything a gentle stir to combine.
7. Step 7: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is incredibly tender.
8. Step 8: About 1 to 1.5 hours before serving, add the pearl onions and mushrooms to the slow cooker. If adding potatoes, do so at this stage as well.
9. Step 9: Carefully remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Taste the Bourguignon and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, make a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, stir it into the hot stew, and cook for another 15-30 minutes on high until thickened. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Keep these in mind:

• Use high-quality beef for a tender beef bourguignon recipe.
• Ensure not to overcrowd the pan when searing beef; do it in batches for a nice crust.
• Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker model; some may cook faster than others.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Serve this classic French beef stew with:

• Crusty French bread to soak up the rich sauce.
• Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a satisfying side.
• Steamed green beans or a fresh salad for brightness.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This meal is perfect for meal prep, as flavors continue to develop over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Using quality beef and allowing it to sear before slow cooking adds depth to the dish.

Can I make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and let it cook in the slow cooker the next day for maximum flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you sear the beef properly, avoid overcooking, and use quality ingredients. Following the beef bourguignon cooking time accurately will also help you achieve the best results.

Variations of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon You Can Try

Here are some gourmet beef bourguignon variations to consider:

• Add a splash of brandy for an extra layer of flavor.
• Incorporate different vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added sweetness.
• Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, for a personal touch.

Enjoy this delightful dish that brings the warmth of French cuisine right to your table!

For more delicious recipes, check out Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil or Pappardelle with Beef Ragu. If you’re interested in meal prep tips, visit Homemade Tomato Sauce for some great ideas.

For more information on the benefits of slow cooking, you can read about it here.

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: 7 Steps to Cozy Perfection

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 46 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a comforting and rich dish that transforms tough cuts of beef into tender morsels. Perfect for a cozy weekend meal, it combines classic flavors with minimal effort.

---

Ingredients

• Beef Chuck Roast, cut into 1.5 to 2-inch cubes
• Thick-Cut Bacon, cut into lardons
• Non-Alcoholic Red Wine Substitute or beef broth combined with unsweetened cranberry or grape juice
• Pearl Onions
• Mushrooms (Cremini or Button), quartered or halved
• Carrots, sliced into thick rounds or chunks
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato Paste
• Beef Broth (Low Sodium)
• All-Purpose Flour
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaf)
• Potatoes (Optional), diced waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Pat your beef chuck cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cut your bacon into lardons, roughly chop your onion, and slice your carrots into thick rounds or chunks. Mince your garlic.
2. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high. Working in batches, add the floured beef cubes to the hot bacon fat and sear on all sides until beautifully browned. Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in your non-alcoholic red wine substitute (or beef broth/juice mixture) into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the beef broth, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaf.
6. Pour the entire contents of the skillet over the seared beef in the slow cooker and give everything a gentle stir to combine.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the beef is incredibly tender.
8. About 1 to 1.5 hours before serving, add the pearl onions and mushrooms to the slow cooker. If adding potatoes, do so at this stage as well.
9. Carefully remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Taste the Bourguignon and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, make a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, stir it into the hot stew, and cook for another 15-30 minutes on high until thickened. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg