Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is an indulgent comfort dish packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a luscious, savory sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this dish is a culinary hug on cold days.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 5 slices bacon, finely chopped
- 3 lbs boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup red cooking wine (such as Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Aromatics and Vegetables:
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 5 medium carrots, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 pound baby potatoes (tri-color, if available), halved
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it in your slow cooker.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, sear the beef on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Work in batches if necessary.
- Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, pour in the red wine. Scrape the browned bits off the bottom with a wooden spoon (this step is crucial for flavor!).
- Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce.
- Sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Assemble and Cook
- Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Add the garlic, thyme, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook:
- Low for 8-10 hours
- High for 6 hours
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Once the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked, give the stew a final stir.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
Tips for Success
- Wine Selection: Use a good-quality dry red wine you would enjoy drinking. The better the wine, the richer the flavor!
- Make Ahead: The flavors deepen after resting. This dish is even better the next day!
- Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy this melt-in-your-mouth Beef Bourguignon, a classic dish made effortless with the magic of a slow cooker!