👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)
Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the bacon fat, sear the beef pieces until browned on all sides. This adds depth of flavor.
Shortcut: Skip this step and add everything straight to the slow cooker, but browning boosts richness.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker
Place the beef, bacon, onions, garlic, carrots, mushrooms, and potatoes into the slow cooker.
3. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Pour the mixture over the meat and vegetables.
4. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours, or on HIGH for 4–6 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
5. Optional: Thicken the Sauce
For a thicker stew, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with a few spoonfuls of hot broth in a separate bowl. Stir into the stew and cook for another 15–30 minutes.
6. Finish with Butter
Just before serving, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter for added richness and shine.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon over:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Buttered egg noodles
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Crusty French bread
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Steamed rice or polenta
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a fresh pop of color and aroma.
💡 Tips for Success
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Choose a good-quality wine: It doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be drinkable. The wine flavor concentrates during cooking.
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Use a fatty cut like chuck roast: It becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking.
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Don't skip the bacon: It adds an essential smoky layer of flavor.
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Let it sit: The flavor improves as it rests — it’s even better the next day!
🥂 Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the perfect marriage of rustic comfort and gourmet flavor. Whether you're impressing dinner guests or just treating yourself on a cozy night in, this dish brings the heart of French cooking right to your kitchen — no passport or fancy cookware needed.
So pour yourself a glass of red, plug in your slow cooker, and let time do the magic. Bon appétit! 🇫🇷
