Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

To develop a deep, savory flavor, it’s important to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker.

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring they are browned on all sides. This will take about 4-5 minutes per batch.
• Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant. This will help build the flavor base for the stew.

• Once the onions and garlic are softened, transfer them to the slow cooker with the beef.

Step 3: Add the Wine and Broth

Now, it’s time to deglaze the skillet and create the rich, flavorful broth. Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.

• Pour the wine mixture into the slow cooker with the beef and onions.
• Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Stir everything together and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the carrots, pearl onions, and mushrooms to the slow cooker, giving everything a gentle stir to combine.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Beef Bourguignon

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. The longer you cook it, the more tender the beef will become, so feel free to leave it for the full 8 hours for the best results.

Step 6: Optional Thickening (If Desired)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can make a simple slurry to thicken the broth at the end of the cooking time.

• In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with a little cold water (about ¼ cup) to make a smooth paste.
• Stir this slurry into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the end of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce into a more velvety consistency.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once the Beef Bourguignon is done cooking, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
• Serve over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.

Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Beef chuck roast is the ideal cut for this dish because it’s well-marbled and becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts, as they won’t have the same melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Use Good Wine: The red wine is a key ingredient in Beef Bourguignon, contributing depth and flavor to the sauce. While you don’t need to splurge on an expensive bottle, choose a dry red wine that you enjoy drinking (Burgundy, Pinot Noir, or Merlot work great).
• Don’t Skip Browning the Meat: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds a lot of flavor and richness to the dish. The caramelized bits that form during browning create a savory base for the stew.
• Make It Ahead: Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day! The flavors continue to develop as it sits, so feel free to make it a day in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving.
• Add Other Vegetables: If you love mushrooms and carrots, feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or potatoes to the mix for extra heartiness.

Why This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Works

Beef Bourguignon is known for its deep, luxurious flavor, and slow cooking is the perfect method to achieve that. By cooking the beef slowly in wine and broth, the meat becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce, while the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. The long, slow braise allows the ingredients to meld together in the most delightful way, creating a dish that’s rich, savory, and utterly comforting.

The slow cooker makes this classic French dish easy and hands-off. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen, you can set it up and let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day. Plus, the result is always a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of tender beef, the depth of red wine, and the savory flavors of vegetables and herbs. With its easy preparation and slow-cooked perfection, this dish is ideal for busy days when you want a meal that’s both luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Beef Bourguignon is sure to impress and satisfy every time. So, fire up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this classic French dish that’s both simple and spectacular.