Name: Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-490383H49M29S
Total time: PT-490383H49M29S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs stew beef (such as chuck), cut into cubes; 6 oz bacon, chopped; 3 carrots, sliced; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir); 2 cups beef broth; 3–4 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; 8 oz mushrooms, halved or sliced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 2 tbsp cold water (for cornstarch slurry, optional)

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe

This dish is the ultimate in comfort food with minimal effort. Using a slow cooker transforms a classic French recipe into an easy-to-make weeknight or weekend meal. The long cooking time allows the beef to become meltingly tender, and the flavors to develop deep richness. It’s elegant enough for guests, yet simple enough for a family dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Stew beef (such as chuck), cut into cubes
Bacon, chopped
Carrots, sliced
Yellow onion, chopped
Garlic cloves, minced
Tomato paste
Red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
Beef broth
Fresh thyme
Bay leaves
Mushrooms, halved or sliced
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil
Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Add carrots, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until slightly softened, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Stir in the tomato paste, red wine, beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, and cooked bacon.
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 5–6 hours, until the beef is tender.
In the last hour of cooking, stir in the mushrooms.
If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the stew. Let it cook for 15–20 more minutes.
Remove bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Cook time: 8–10 hours on low or 5–6 hours on high
Prep time: 25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 8.5–10.5 hours

Variations

No wine version: Replace the wine with additional beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or grape juice for depth.
Vegetable boost: Add celery, parsnips, or potatoes for a heartier stew.
Gluten-free option: Ensure your beef broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Pork-free: Omit the bacon or use turkey bacon instead.
More herbs: Add rosemary or parsley for a herbal twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for Beef Bourguignon?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and ability to become tender during long, slow cooking.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it in a Dutch oven at 325°F in the oven for about 2.5–3 hours until the beef is tender.

Does the alcohol cook out of the wine?

Most of the alcohol will cook off during the long cooking process, leaving behind rich flavor without the alcohol content.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to develop.

What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, egg noodles, or rice are excellent choices to soak up the sauce.

Can I use white wine instead of red?

Red wine is traditional and recommended, but white wine can be used for a lighter variation, though the flavor will differ.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Use a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) or reduce the sauce uncovered in the last hour of cooking.

Are there vegetarian alternatives?

You can make a vegetarian version using mushrooms, carrots, potatoes, and vegetable broth, and skip the meat and bacon.

Can I add potatoes to the slow cooker?

Yes, chopped potatoes can be added at the beginning with the other vegetables for a complete one-pot meal.

Why are mushrooms added later in the recipe?

Adding mushrooms near the end prevents them from overcooking and becoming too soft or mushy.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon brings gourmet French flavors to your kitchen with simple, hands-off cooking. This dish is rich, comforting, and perfect for both special occasions and cozy nights in. Whether served over mashed potatoes or with crusty bread, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon