Savory Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Easy Delicious Recipe

Picture this: a chilly evening, where the warmth of your home is greeted by the tantalizing aroma of tender beef simmering in rich red wine. Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the quintessential comfort dish that transforms a simple gathering into a lavish feast. Whether it’s a family dinner, a celebratory occasion, or a cozy night in, this dish brings everyone together.

Inspiration for this classic French recipe draws from the rustic regions of Burgundy, steeped in tradition and culinary excellence. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs slowly melded together creates a unique savory experience. What sets this recipe apart is its effortless preparation—just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the magic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience you’ll cherish. This dish captures the heart of French cuisine through its rich flavors and comforting textures. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it perfect for anyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. Each bite is packed with mouthwatering flavor, and the slow cooking process results in incredibly tender meat that’s bursting with savory goodness. Plus, it’s easy to customize, ensuring it can cater to various dietary preferences!

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

Imagine a symphony of flavors dancing on your taste buds. The deep, robust notes of red wine mingle beautifully with garlic and herbs, which elevate the beef to new heights of culinary delight. The earthy mushrooms add a lovely umami kick, while carrots and onions provide hints of sweetness and texture. The finale? A thick, luscious gravy that coats each ingredient in a warm, harmonious embrace. It’s a dish that comforts the soul and excites the palate!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather the ingredients to unlock the full potential of this delightful dish. Below is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes: This cut is perfect for slow cooking due to its marbling, yielding tender, juicy meat that absorbs all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the gravy, giving it a rich consistency that coats the meat beautifully.
• 4 cups of red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir recommended): The star of the dish; adds depth, richness, and character to the beef. Always choose a wine you would enjoy drinking!
• 2 cups of beef stock: Complements the wine and adds an extra layer of savory flavor to the sauce.
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 large onion, diced: Adds sweetness and texture; it caramelizes beautifully during cooking, contributing to the dish’s richness.
• 2 cups of carrots, sliced: Provides sweetness and color, balancing the savory elements of the dish.
• 8 ounces of mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced: Offers earthiness and umami that complement the beef perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste: Enhances the depth of flavor with its slight sweetness and acidity.
• 2 bay leaves: Imparts a subtle herbal note, enhancing the dish’s aroma.
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme: Adds a fragrant herbaceous note that ties the dish’s flavors together.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and flavor enhancement.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For browning the beef and adding richness to the dish.

Optional Additions

If you’re feeling adventurous or want to customize your Beef Bourguignon, consider the following variations:

• For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
• For a vegetarian twist: Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like eggplant or jackfruit.
• Add zucchini or parsnips: For more veggies, these can complement the dish without overshadowing it.

Special Garnishes

Presentation is key! Top each serving with:

• Fresh parsley: For a burst of color and freshness.
• A sprinkle of fresh thyme: To reinforce the herbal notes.
• Crusty bread on the side: Perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bring this dish to life? Follow these simple steps for the best results:

1. Prep the beef: Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This step is vital for achieving a good sear. Season with salt and pepper, then dust lightly with flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the beef cubes in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic, onions, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor!
4. Add to slow cooker: Once the vegetables are cooked, stir them into the slow cooker with the beef.
5. Combine the liquids: Pour in the red wine and beef stock, then add tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, and additional seasoning as required. Stir until well combined.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. The longer, the better—allowing flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.
7. Check and serve: When the cooking time is up, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by crusty bread.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own. For a bolder flavor, you can experiment with different types of red wine or try adding bacon for an additional layer of smokiness. If you avoid alcohol, beef broth alone works well. Want a creamier sauce? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche just before serving!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon in big, hearty bowls with crusty bread for dipping. It also pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple side salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

Helpful Tips

• Choose a good wine: Since the wine defines the dish, select one that you enjoy drinking.
• Don’t rush the browning: This step builds flavor, so take your time for the best outcome.
• Let it rest: Allowing the beef stew to sit for a few minutes before serving allows the sauce to thicken up nicely.

Special Equipment

Having the right tools makes cooking a breeze. For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Slow Cooker: A 6-qt slow cooker is ideal to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
• Sauté Pan: For browning the beef and sautéing vegetables.
• Wooden Spoon: To mix and scrape those delicious bits off the bottom of the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the beef and cook the vegetables, then switch to pressure cooking for about 35 minutes. Allow a natural release for tender results.

Is Beef Bourguignon freezable?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Just make sure to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the slow cooker.

What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad. It can also pair wonderfully with egg noodles or polenta.

Can I use meat other than beef?

Yes, this recipe can work with chicken, pork, or even a mix of mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Keep in mind the cooking times may vary.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth, togetherness, and an incredible depth of flavor to your dinner table. Its rich history and comforting nature make it an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it’s a simple weeknight or a festive celebration. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and invite your friends and family to enjoy the delightful flavors with you. Share your adaptations or thoughts in the comments below—this is a dish meant to be savored and shared among loved ones!

Savory Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Easy Delicious Recipe

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Discover this easy delicious Savory Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe that transforms tender beef into a rich flavorful meal Perfect for any occasion

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Ingredients

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2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes

1/4 cup of all-purpose flour

4 cups of red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir recommended)

2 cups of beef stock

4 cloves of garlic, minced

1 large onion, diced

2 cups of carrots, sliced

8 ounces of mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced

2 tablespoons of tomato paste

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons of olive oil

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Instructions

Prep the beef: Start by patting the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper, then dust lightly with flour.

Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the beef cubes in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Transfer to slow cooker.

Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic, onions, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add to slow cooker: Stir the sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker with the beef.

Combine the liquids: Pour in the red wine and beef stock, then add tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, and adjust seasoning.

Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Check and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, garnished with fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Calories: 550 calories
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Fat: 30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Protein: 40 grams