SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON is not just a dish; it’s an experience that warms the soul. This comforting and hearty French-inspired stew combines tender chunks of beef chuck with savory bacon, red wine, and fresh vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection. Imagine coming home to the rich aromas of a meal that has been simmering all day—it’s pure bliss! With minimal preparation and the reliable magic of a slow cooker, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON
This beef bourguignon recipe is packed with flavor and offers numerous benefits:
- Effortless preparation that fits into any busy schedule.
- Rich and hearty, perfect for cozy family dinners.
- Utilizes a slow cooker, making it an easy slow-cooked beef stew.
- Versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables.
- Great for meal prep, as it freezes well.
- Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
- Brings authentic French cuisine to your kitchen.
- It’s gluten-free, making it a suitable option for various diets.
Ingredients for SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON
Gather these items:
- 5 slices diced bacon
- 3 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup red cooking wine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 5 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 pound baby potatoes (tri-color recommended)
- 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms
- Fresh chopped parsley
How to Make SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the diced bacon for 5-7 minutes until crisp. Transfer the cooked bacon pieces to the slow cooker.
- Step 2: Season the beef chuck pieces with salt and pepper. In the same skillet with bacon fat, brown the beef on each side for 2-3 minutes to develop flavor. Move the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Step 3: Pour the red cooking wine into the skillet, scraping the browned bits from the pan to incorporate all the flavor. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly. Then add chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Slowly whisk in the flour to thicken the sauce. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker over the beef and bacon.
- Step 4: Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, sliced carrots, baby potatoes, and sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker. Stir everything gently to combine all ingredients.
- Step 5: Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 6 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Step 6: Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Perfect SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON
Keep these in mind:
- Serve with mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Consider using a high-quality red wine for the best flavor.
- For a thicker stew, you can add more flour or cornstarch.
Best Ways to Serve SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON
Here are some serving ideas:
- Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting experience.
- Serve alongside crusty French bread for dipping.
- A fresh green salad complements the richness of the stew beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON
To store the leftovers, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This makes for a delightful meal prep option!
Frequently Asked Questions About SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON
What’s the secret to perfect SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON?
The secret lies in searing the beef before slow cooking; this step adds a depth of flavor. Additionally, using a quality red wine enhances the taste significantly.
Can I make SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance and simply reheat when ready to serve; it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
How do I avoid common mistakes with SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON?
Ensure not to skip the browning step; this adds flavor. Also, avoid adding too much liquid, as the slow cooker retains moisture, creating a thick, rich stew.
Variations of SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON You Can Try
Here are some delicious variations:
- For a lighter version, use chicken instead of beef.
- Add in seasonal vegetables like green beans or peas for added nutrition.
- Try a mix of mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Healthy Sloppy Joes or try our Crockpot Beef Vegetable Stew. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, our Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts are a great choice!
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SLOW COOKER BEEF BOURGUIGNON: 5 Hearty Steps to Comfort
- Total Time: 8 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe is a comforting and hearty French-inspired stew featuring tender chunks of beef chuck, savory bacon, red wine, and fresh vegetables slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 5 slices diced bacon
- 3 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup red cooking wine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 5 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 pound baby potatoes (tri-color recommended)
- 8 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the diced bacon for 5-7 minutes until crisp. Transfer the cooked bacon pieces to the slow cooker.
- Season the beef chuck pieces with salt and pepper. In the same skillet with bacon fat, brown the beef on each side for 2-3 minutes to develop flavor. Move the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Pour the red cooking wine into the skillet, scraping the browned bits from the pan to incorporate all the flavor. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly. Then add chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Slowly whisk in the flour to thicken the sauce. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker over the beef and bacon.
- Add the minced garlic, fresh thyme, sliced carrots, baby potatoes, and sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker. Stir everything gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 6 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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