This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon transforms a French classic into an effortless, comforting meal. Tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce with aromatic herbs, mushrooms, and carrots create a hearty dish perfect for any occasion. It’s a symphony of flavors that elevates slow cooking to new culinary heights. Perfect for chilly nights or a cozy dinner party, this recipe embodies rustic sophistication. Serve it with crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttered egg noodles for a dish that feels like a warm embrace. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s destined to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 slices center-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 ½ pounds boneless beef chuck, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 ½ cups cremini mushrooms, halved or quartered depending on size
- 1 cup shallots, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ½ cup dry red wine (such as Merlot or Pinot Noir)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until crisp, then transfer it to a slow cooker using a slotted spoon. Reserve about 1 teaspoon of bacon fat.
- In a bowl, toss the beef with flour, onion powder, ¾ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Brown the beef in batches in the skillet until golden on all sides, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the reserved bacon fat, mushrooms, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook until the mushrooms begin to brown (about 4-5 minutes). Add the shallots and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in the tomato paste, then transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
- Pour red wine and beef broth into the slow cooker and mix gently to combine. Lay the fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs on top, followed by the carrots.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld. Remove the herb sprigs before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours 20 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
Kcal: 371 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is a timeless French classic that has captivated food lovers for generations. Known for its rich, savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this dish has evolved from its humble beginnings as a rustic peasant meal to a celebrated centerpiece on dinner tables worldwide. Let’s dive deep into the background, benefits, and secrets that make this recipe truly exceptional.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition
Beef Bourguignon, or “Boeuf Bourguignon,” originates from the Burgundy region of France, famous for its fine wines and robust culinary traditions. The dish was traditionally made as a way to tenderize tougher cuts of beef by slow-cooking them in red wine, creating a deeply flavorful stew.
In its classic form, beef bourguignon involves braising beef with red wine, mushrooms, carrots, onions, and aromatic herbs. Julia Child famously popularized this dish in her cookbook Mastering the Art of French Cooking, elevating it to the level of haute cuisine. While traditional recipes require hours of oven-braising and constant attention, the slow cooker version offers a modern twist, preserving the integrity of the dish while making it accessible for today’s busy cooks.
Why Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Is the Best
1. Effortless Elegance
One of the most remarkable aspects of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is how it combines simplicity with sophistication. Using a slow cooker streamlines the process, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality meal with minimal hands-on time. All you need to do is prepare the ingredients, let the slow cooker work its magic, and voila—an impressive dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
2. Unparalleled Flavor
The secret to the deep, layered flavor of Beef Bourguignon lies in its cooking method. The slow, gentle heat allows the flavors of the red wine, fresh herbs, and caramelized vegetables to meld together beautifully. The wine imparts a robust, slightly acidic note that balances the richness of the beef, while the herbs add an aromatic dimension that lingers on the palate.
3. Health Benefits
While it may seem indulgent, this dish also offers a surprising array of health benefits:
- High in Protein: With lean cuts of beef like chuck roast, this dish provides a hearty dose of muscle-building protein.
- Packed with Vegetables: Carrots, mushrooms, and shallots contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Mushrooms, in particular, are rich in selenium and B vitamins.
- Heart-Healthy Ingredients: Red wine (used in moderation) contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which is known for its heart-protective properties.
- Gluten-Free Option: By substituting all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives, you can make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
The Ingredients: Quality Matters
To make the best Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon, the quality of your ingredients is key:
- Beef: Choose chuck roast or stew meat. These cuts are affordable yet perfect for slow cooking, as the connective tissue breaks down into tender, juicy bites.
- Red Wine: Use a wine that you would enjoy drinking. Burgundy or Pinot Noir is traditional, but Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are excellent choices.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary are must-haves, as they infuse the dish with earthy, aromatic notes.
- Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a meaty texture and umami flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfecting This Dish
- Brown the Beef First
Although it’s tempting to skip this step, browning the beef before transferring it to the slow cooker is essential. This process caramelizes the meat, creating a flavorful crust that enhances the depth of the dish. - Layer the Ingredients Thoughtfully
Place heartier vegetables, like carrots, at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking. The beef should sit in the middle, surrounded by the wine and broth to keep it moist. - Choose the Right Wine
Since the wine contributes significantly to the flavor, select one that balances fruitiness with acidity. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can overpower the dish. - Don’t Rush the Cooking Time
The magic of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon happens when the meat and vegetables simmer gently for hours. Cooking on low heat for 8 hours yields the most tender, flavorful results. - Customize to Your Taste
This dish is incredibly versatile. You can add pearl onions for a touch of sweetness or swap the mushrooms for parsnips or potatoes to create a heartier meal.
Why You Should Add This Recipe to Your Rotation
1. Perfect for Meal Prep
Beef Bourguignon is a fantastic make-ahead dish. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making leftovers even more delicious. It also freezes well, so you can portion it out for future meals.
2. Budget-Friendly
This recipe uses affordable ingredients like chuck roast and carrots but delivers a luxurious dining experience. The slow cooking process elevates these humble ingredients into something truly spectacular.
3. Great for Entertaining
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special occasion, Beef Bourguignon is a show-stopper. Serve it in wide bowls with a side of crusty French bread, and your guests will feel like they’re dining in a Parisian bistro.
Pairing Suggestions
Beef Bourguignon is best served with sides that can soak up its luscious sauce:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes are the ultimate pairing.
- Egg Noodles: These light, tender noodles are perfect for absorbing the wine-infused sauce.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is ideal for scooping up every last drop.
- Roasted Vegetables: Green beans or asparagus roasted with a drizzle of olive oil and garlic add a fresh, vibrant contrast.
For wine pairings, serve the same wine used in the recipe to complement the dish’s flavors seamlessly.
Storage and Reheating
One of the best things about this recipe is its convenience:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a dish that combines the comfort of home-cooked meals with the sophistication of French cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Its ease, flavor, and versatility make it a standout addition to any cook’s repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and prepare to indulge in the hearty, aromatic flavors of this French classic. Bon appétit!
