Crockpot Recipes

December 28, 2025

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: 7 Heartwarming Secrets

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

251 Views • 10 min read

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: 7 Heartwarming Secrets

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There’s just something so heartwarming about a big pot of stew simmering away, filling the kitchen with its rich, savory aromas. I remember one chilly evening, I came home after a long day, and the thought of my Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon waiting for me made everything better. I could hardly wait to dig in! The tender beef, the luscious sauce, the earthy mushrooms—every bite is like a warm hug on a cold day.

This recipe is such a breeze, too! With just a bit of prep and a few hours in the slow cooker, you get a meal that tastes like it’s been lovingly simmered for hours (which it has, just without all the fuss!). It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to comfort food in your home!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups red wine
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 pound mushrooms, halved
2 tablespoons flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Don’t forget, using quality ingredients makes all the difference. I always go for a nice bottle of red wine that I’d actually enjoy drinking—this isn’t just for cooking! And fresh veggies? They add that extra punch of flavor that really brings the dish to life. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Getting ready to make this amazing Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day. Let’s dive right in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This will add so much flavor! Once it’s done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on some paper towels to drain.
In the same skillet, add the beef chuck pieces in batches, browning them on all sides. This step is crucial for locking in those delicious juices! Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to sear nicely.
While the beef is browning, grab your slow cooker. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic to create a flavorful base.
Once the beef is browned, transfer it, along with the crispy bacon, into the slow cooker. Trust me, at this point, your kitchen will start smelling incredible!
Now, it’s time to pour in the red wine and beef broth. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and add the bay leaf for that extra depth of flavor.
Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours. This slow cooking method allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
In the last hour of cooking, add the halved mushrooms. They’ll soak up all that delicious goodness and add a wonderful texture to the stew.

And there you have it! A straightforward approach that leads to a comforting and hearty meal. Just set it and forget it for a while! You’ll be rewarded with a savory stew that feels like a warm embrace after a long day.

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk nutrition! This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is not only delicious but also packed with hearty goodness. Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional data per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 35g

Keep in mind, these numbers are estimates, so they can vary based on the exact ingredients you use and portion sizes. But overall, you can feel good about enjoying this hearty stew! It’s a meal that not only warms your soul but also gives you a solid dose of protein and nutrients. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Absolutely effortless preparation—just brown the beef and let the slow cooker do the work!
The flavors deepen and become more vibrant as it cooks, making every bite a delight.
It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you (yay!).
Perfect for meal prepping; it tastes even better the next day!
Rich, hearty, and satisfying—the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ideal for cozy gatherings or a comforting family dinner, everyone will love it!
Versatile, too! You can tweak it with different veggies or seasonings based on what you have on hand.

Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

To make your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few tips that’ll ensure you get the best results every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!

Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when browning the beef. It’s tempting to throw it all in at once, but browning in batches helps develop that rich, deep flavor. Plus, it creates a nice crust that locks in those delicious juices!
Season as you go: Don’t forget to season your beef with salt and pepper before you brown it. This step is key in building layers of flavor right from the start!
Quality wine matters: Use a red wine that you enjoy drinking. The better the wine, the better your stew will taste. You don’t need to break the bank, but a decent bottle will really elevate the dish.
Adjust the liquid: If you find that your stew is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more beef broth or some water. On the flip side, if it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for a bit to thicken up!
Let it rest: If you can, let your stew sit for a bit after it’s done cooking. It allows the flavors to meld even more, and trust me, it tastes even better the next day!
Taste and tweak: Don’t be shy about tasting as you go! A little extra thyme or a splash more of wine can take your stew from good to great. Adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.
Use fresh ingredients: The fresher your vegetables and herbs, the more vibrant the flavor. So, use those fresh carrots and mushrooms whenever you can!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up a Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!

Variations of Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is how flexible it is! You can get creative and make it your own with just a few simple tweaks. Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

Vegetable medley: Feel free to toss in other hearty vegetables like parsnips, potatoes, or even green beans. They’ll soak up all those tasty flavors and add a lovely variety of textures!
Red wine alternatives: If you don’t have red wine on hand, you can substitute it with a good-quality beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. It won’t be quite the same, but it’ll still be delicious!
Mushroom lovers: Add in different types of mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello for a deeper, earthier flavor profile. You could even toss in some dried mushrooms for an extra punch!
Spicy twist: Want to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick! It’s a great way to add a new dimension to the stew.
Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs! Rosemary or parsley can bring a fresh twist to the classic flavors. Just be mindful to adjust the amounts according to your taste.
Gluten-free option: If you need a gluten-free version, simply replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the stew without any worries!

So, don’t hesitate to play around with this recipe! Each variation can bring something new to the table, and that’s part of the fun of cooking. Enjoy making it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers from your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon are just as delightful as the first serving, so don’t let any of that deliciousness go to waste! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly for the best flavor and texture.

First off, let the stew cool down a bit before transferring it to your storage containers. I like to use airtight containers to keep everything fresh. You can store your leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely sealed to avoid any funky fridge smells mixing in!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew! Just pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It should stay good for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When it comes to reheating, I recommend warming it up gently on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to make sure everything heats evenly and to avoid any sticking at the bottom. If it looks a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up! You can also reheat it in the microwave, but make sure to cover it to keep moisture in, and give it a stir halfway through for even heating.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon long after you’ve made it. Trust me, it’ll taste just as comforting the next day!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this hearty stew to make your meal even more delightful! Trust me, the right accompaniments can really elevate the experience.

First up, you absolutely can’t go wrong with some crusty bread. A nice, warm baguette or a rustic sourdough is perfect for soaking up that rich, savory sauce. I always find myself reaching for a slice to mop up every last bit of goodness from my bowl!

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, a crisp green salad is a fantastic choice. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. The freshness and crunch are a wonderful contrast to the warmth of the stew.

Feeling a little fancy? Try serving it with garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta! Both options are deliciously comforting and will complement the flavors of the beef bourguignon beautifully. Plus, they add an extra layer of indulgence that’s hard to resist.

And let’s not forget about roasted vegetables. A medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips, drizzled with olive oil and herbs, makes for a vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with the stew’s richness.

Lastly, for those who love a bit of warmth, a side of buttered noodles can be a delightful addition. They’re simple to prepare and will soak up the sauce wonderfully!

So there you have it—plenty of delicious options to serve alongside your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon. Each of these pairings will enhance your meal and create a truly memorable dining experience. Enjoy every bite!

What do you think?

Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!