Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

One of the best things about slow cooking is how it can transform tough cuts of meat into tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. When it comes to beef bourguignon, this method works its magic perfectly. As the beef simmers low and slow in a rich and flavorful sauce, it becomes infused with all the wonderful aromas of wine, herbs, and vegetables.

The beauty of using a slow cooker for beef bourguignon is that it allows you to simply set it and forget it. You can go about your day, whether it’s work, running errands, or simply relaxing, while the slow cooker does all the work for you. There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to a house filled with the enticing smell of a home-cooked meal, ready to be enjoyed with minimal effort.

Another fantastic aspect of slow cooker beef bourguignon is how versatile it is. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) also taste amazing the next day as the flavors have had even more time to meld together.

While traditional beef bourguignon requires a fair amount of hands-on cooking time, the slow cooker method streamlines the process without sacrificing any of the dish’s deep, rich flavors. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting and classic French dish with a fraction of the effort. So, if you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a delectable meal that practically cooks itself, slow cooker beef bourguignon is definitely a recipe worth trying.

Key Ingredients in Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

When it comes to creating the rich and robust flavors of slow cooker beef bourguignon, the key lies in selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of taste that make this dish so irresistible. Let’s take a closer look at the essential elements that come together to create this classic French masterpiece:

• Beef Chuck Roast: The star of the show, beef chuck roast is the perfect cut for slow cooking. Known for its marbling and connective tissue, this cut becomes incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. It provides the hearty base for the dish and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
• Red Wine: A key element in beef bourguignon, red wine adds depth, complexity, and a hint of acidity to the dish. The alcohol cooks off during the slow cooking process, leaving behind a rich and velvety sauce infused with the wine’s flavors.
• Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful smoky note to the beef bourguignon while also providing a layer of richness. As it cooks down with the other ingredients, it imparts its savory essence, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
• Onions, Carrots, and Celery: Known as the classic mirepoix in French cooking, this combination of aromatic vegetables forms the flavor base of many traditional dishes. In beef bourguignon, these veggies add sweetness, depth, and a hint of earthiness to the sauce.
• Garlic: A staple in French cuisine, garlic brings its pungent and slightly spicy flavor to the dish. It complements the richness of the beef and wine, adding a subtle kick to the overall taste profile.
• Beef Broth: Providing a savory and umami-packed liquid base, beef broth enhances the depth of flavor in the dish. It helps to tenderize the meat further and ensures a rich and luscious sauce that coats each tender bite of beef.
• Tomato Paste: Tomato paste adds a touch of acidity and sweetness to the sauce, balancing out the richness of the beef and wine. It also helps thicken the sauce and intensifies the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Fresh Thyme and Bay Leaves: These aromatic herbs bring a layer of freshness and herbal fragrance to the beef bourguignon. They infuse the sauce with their subtle flavors as the dish cooks low and slow, adding a delightful complexity to each bite.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: There’s something truly exquisite about pairing the rich flavors of slow cooker beef bourguignon with velvety mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes acts as the perfect canvas to soak up the luscious sauce, creating a heavenly combination of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you prefer classic buttery mashed potatoes or a twist with garlic or herbs, this side dish adds a comforting element to your beef bourguignon feast.

2. Crusty Bread or Baguette: Embrace the French origins of beef bourguignon by serving it alongside slices of crusty bread or a freshly baked baguette. The crispy exterior and soft, pillowy interior of the bread provide a delightful contrast to the tender beef and savory sauce. Use the bread to mop up every last bit of the rich gravy, ensuring that not a drop goes to waste. It’s the perfect way to savor every ounce of flavor from your slow-cooked masterpiece.

3. Roasted Root Vegetables: For a wholesome and rustic touch to your meal, consider complementing your slow cooker beef bourguignon with a side of roasted root vegetables. The caramelized edges and earthy sweetness of vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes offer a delightful balance to the hearty beef dish. Tossed in olive oil, herbs, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, these roasted vegetables add a colorful and nutritious element to your plate, making your meal both satisfying and well-rounded.

Pair your slow cooker beef bourguignon with any of these delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience and create a memorable meal that celebrates the joys of slow cooking and French cuisine.

How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

After indulging in a delightful feast of slow cooker beef bourguignon, you may find yourself with leftovers that you want to savor for another day. To ensure that your flavorful dish maintains its freshness and taste, proper storage is key.

One option for storing your beef bourguignon is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container. This method keeps the flavors intact and allows for easy reheating when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

If you’re looking to store your beef bourguignon for a longer period, freezing is a convenient option. Portion out the leftover dish into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some room for expansion. Properly sealed, your beef bourguignon can last in the freezer for up to three months without compromising its taste and texture.

For those who prefer a grab-and-go option, consider freezing individual servings of beef bourguignon in a muffin tin or silicone mold. Once frozen solid, transfer the portions to a resealable bag for easy access to single servings that can be reheated whenever a craving strikes.

By following these simple storing tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your slow cooker beef bourguignon beyond the initial serving, keeping its essence alive for future culinary delights. So, whether you’re meal prepping for busy days or simply looking to extend the joy of your homemade masterpiece, storing your beef bourguignon with care ensures that each bite remains a delectable experience.

Conclusion

Ah, slow cooker beef bourguignon – a truly magical dish that brings together rich flavors, tender beef, and the convenience of modern cooking. As you let the beef simmer in its savory sauce, filling your home with the most delightful aromas, you can almost taste the essence of French comfort food.

From selecting the perfect ingredients to layering them in the slow cooker and savoring the final dish with your favorite sides, every step in this recipe is a journey towards culinary bliss. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe simplifies the process without compromising on taste.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a flavorful adventure and treat yourself to a classic French favorite made easy, slow cooker beef bourguignon awaits. Impress your loved ones, satiate your cravings, and revel in the joy of a comforting meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Feel free to print out this recipe and save it for those cozy nights when all you need is a warm and satisfying dish. And remember, I’m here to help with any questions, feedback, or tales of your culinary escapades. Let’s cook and create delicious memories together!

Now, without further ado, it’s time to savor the delectable flavors of slow cooker beef bourguignon and let its magic transport you to a world of culinary delight.

Happy cooking, dear friends!

Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Author: Emily Roberts Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 8 hrs Total Time 8 hrs 20 mins

Calories: 475

Description

Tender beef, rich red wine sauce, aromatic herbs, and hearty vegetables slowly cooked to perfection. Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon a warm, comforting hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 pounds stewing beef

• ¹⁄₄ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup red wine

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 pound small potatoes, halved

• 4 large carrots, chopped

• ¹⁄₂ pound mushrooms, quartered

• ¹⁄₂ cup frozen pearl onions

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Trim any excess fat from the stewing beef and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef cubes to the flour mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Brown the beef cubes in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, and transfer them to the slow cooker.
6. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Transfer the garlic and onion to the slow cooker.
8. Pour the beef broth, red wine, and tomato paste into the slow cooker.
9. Add the dried thyme and bay leaves to the slow cooker.
10. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
11. Add the halved potatoes, chopped carrots, quartered mushrooms, and frozen pearl onions to the slow cooker.
12. Cover and continue to cook on low for an additional 1-2 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
13. Discard the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
14. Serve the slow cooker beef bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Note

• For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef cubes in the red wine for a few hours before cooking.
• You can use other types of potatoes like baby potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes for variety.
• Feel free to add extra vegetables such as peas, celery, or green beans to the stew for more color and nutrients.
• To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.
• For a thicker sauce, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Serve this dish with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to reheat gently to prevent the meat from becoming tough.

Keywords: Slow Cooker, Beef Bourguignon, Red Wine, Comfort Food, French Cuisine