Experience the rich and robust flavors of a classic French dish with this Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon. Tender beef chunks are slowly simmered with hearty vegetables in a luscious red wine sauce, resulting in a comforting meal that warms both the heart and soul. This simplified version allows you to enjoy gourmet cuisine with minimal effort, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delectable sauce, and savor the taste of France from the comfort of your home.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 5 slices bacon, diced
- 3 pounds beef chuck, cubed
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 8 ounces pearl or cippolini onions, peeled
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 quart cremini mushrooms, quartered
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1¼ cups red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Mashed potatoes, for serving
Directions:
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and transfer to the bowl of a slow cooker.
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, sear the beef in batches until well browned on each side, approximately 3 minutes per side. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef and bacon in the slow cooker, stirring to combine. Add the peeled onions, sliced carrots, quartered mushrooms, and minced garlic, gently mixing to incorporate.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine. Stir in the tomato paste, add the bay leaf and butter. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Before serving, stir in the chopped fresh thyme. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over mashed potatoes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 hours | Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 536 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction: A French Classic Made Easy
Beef Bourguignon, also known as Bœuf Bourguignon, is a timeless French dish that has captivated food lovers for centuries. This luxurious stew originates from the Burgundy region of France, famous for its rich wines and hearty cuisine. Traditionally, the dish involves slow-braising beef in red wine with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a combination of flavors that deepen over hours of cooking. While the classic recipe requires meticulous attention to detail and long hours of preparation, this slow-cooker version makes it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort—perfect for busy weekdays or an indulgent weekend treat.
The History of Beef Bourguignon
The origins of Beef Bourguignon date back to medieval France when slow-cooking meats in wine was a method of tenderizing tough cuts. The dish was considered a “peasant food” due to its use of inexpensive ingredients. Over time, it gained popularity and became a celebrated dish in French culinary traditions. In the early 20th century, French chef Auguste Escoffier formalized the recipe, and it was later popularized internationally by Julia Child, who introduced it in her cookbook Mastering the Art of French Cooking (1961). Today, Beef Bourguignon is synonymous with elegant comfort food, combining deep, complex flavors with a rustic charm that never goes out of style.
Why This Recipe Is the Best
Simplifies the Cooking Process
- Traditional Beef Bourguignon requires multiple steps, including browning, deglazing, and oven braising. This slow-cooker method eliminates the complexity while still delivering authentic flavors. With set-it-and-forget-it convenience, this recipe lets the slow cooker do all the work, freeing up your time.
Perfectly Tender Beef
- Using a slow cooker ensures that the beef is cooked low and slow, breaking down tough connective tissues into fall-apart tender meat. The long cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a deeply flavorful and rich stew.
Uses Everyday Ingredients
- This recipe is crafted using readily available ingredients, including beef chuck, carrots, mushrooms, onions, garlic, red wine, and beef broth. You don’t need specialty ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal.
Enhances Flavor with Red Wine
- Red wine is the star ingredient in Beef Bourguignon. The acidity in the wine tenderizes the meat, while its bold flavors enhance the stew. Burgundy wine is traditionally used, but any full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, or Merlot works beautifully.
Versatile Serving Options
- This dish is best enjoyed with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty French bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
Health Benefits of Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon
While Beef Bourguignon is known for its rich and indulgent flavors, it also provides some health benefits when enjoyed in moderation:
High in Protein
- The lean beef in this dish is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
Packed with Nutrient-Dense Vegetables
- Carrots, onions, mushrooms, and garlic add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and overall well-being.
Red Wine Benefits
- Red wine contains resveratrol, an antioxidant linked to heart health. When used in cooking, it adds depth to the dish while providing health benefits.
Slow Cooking Retains Nutrients
- Unlike high-heat cooking methods that break down nutrients, slow cooking preserves essential vitamins and minerals, making the meal more nutritious.
Best Tips for Perfecting Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon
To take your Beef Bourguignon to the next level, keep these expert tips in mind:
Sear the Meat First
- Before adding beef to the slow cooker, sear it in a hot pan. This creates a deep caramelized crust, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
Use High-Quality Wine
- Always cook with a wine you’d enjoy drinking. A full-bodied red wine with moderate tannins enhances the stew without overpowering it.
Cook It Low and Slow
- For the best results, cook the dish on low for 8 hours rather than on high. This ensures maximum tenderness and richer flavors.
Thicken the Sauce at the End
- For a velvety sauce, mix a tablespoon of butter with a tablespoon of flour and stir it into the stew 30 minutes before serving.
Let It Rest Before Serving
- Like most stews, Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. If possible, make it ahead of time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Beef Bourguignon is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options:
Best Side Dishes:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate pairing, mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Buttered Egg Noodles – A classic French pairing that complements the dish’s richness.
- Crusty French Baguette – Perfect for dipping into the stew’s delicious sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a slightly bitter contrast to balance the richness.
- Garlic Green Beans – A simple and fresh side to lighten the meal.
Best Wine Pairings:
Since Beef Bourguignon is a wine-based dish, pairing it with a complementary red wine enhances the experience. Here are some of the best choices:
- Pinot Noir – A classic match, offering earthy and fruity notes.
- Cabernet Sauvignon – A bold choice with deep tannins.
- Merlot – A smooth, easy-drinking option with soft tannins.
- Côtes du Rhône – A French red that enhances the dish’s rustic flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Beef Bourguignon without wine?
- Yes! If you prefer not to cook with wine, substitute it with extra beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or grape juice for acidity.
What is the best cut of beef for Beef Bourguignon?
- Use a well-marbled cut like chuck roast, which becomes tender after slow cooking. Other options include brisket or round roast.
Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon?
- Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth or water.
Conclusion
Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. It delivers deep, rich flavors with minimal effort, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With tender beef, a luscious wine-infused sauce, and aromatic vegetables, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive meal, give this Slow-Cooker Beef Bourguignon a try—you won’t be disappointed!
