Introduction to Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon recipe is reliable on a busy night—it keeps the steps short and the flavor high. It uses pantry staples and a few smart cues, so you know exactly when to stir, simmer, and serve. You do not need special tools or fancy skills—follow the cues and you will get a cozy, homey Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon every time.
Good heat brings sweetness from onions and browning builds savory depth without bitterness. Salt sharpens flavor while a touch of acid at the end makes everything taste brighter. If the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon sauce feels thick, add a splash of liquid; if it feels thin, simmer a minute longer.
Benefits of This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
The method is simple, the ingredient list is sensible, and the results are repeatable. It scales up for family or down for one, and it takes well to the swaps in the Variations section. Cleanup is easy because most of the cooking happens in one pan.
Good heat brings sweetness from onions and browning builds savory depth without bitterness. Salt sharpens flavor while a touch of acid at the end makes everything taste brighter. If the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon sauce feels thick, add a splash of liquid; if it feels thin, simmer a minute longer.
- Fast, weeknight-friendly method.
- Pantry ingredients and clean flavors.
- Flexible swaps for protein, veg, and heat level.
- Scales for family or meal prep.
- Consistent results using visual cues.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
- 3 lbs beef chuck, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
- Sear beef in olive oil until browned, then transfer to slow cooker.
- Add carrots, onions, tomato paste, broth, thyme, and mushrooms.
- Stir, cover, and cook on LOW 8 hours or HIGH 4 hours.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes or bread.
- Prep Time: 20 min | Cooking Time: 8 hrs | Total Time: 8 hrs 20 min
- Kcal: ~420 per serving | Servings: 6
Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Do not rush the aromatics; let them soften until sweet before you add liquids. Avoid crowding the pan so moisture can escape and browning can happen. Taste your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon before serving and adjust salt, acid, and heat to your liking.
Good heat brings sweetness from onions and browning builds savory depth without bitterness. Salt sharpens flavor while a touch of acid at the end makes everything taste brighter. If the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon sauce feels thick, add a splash of liquid; if it feels thin, simmer a minute longer.
- Soften aromatics until sweet before adding liquids.
- Avoid overcrowding to keep browning active.
- Finish with salt or acid for balance.
External Resources for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Variations
- Protein: chicken, turkey, tofu, beef, or mushrooms.
- Lighter: olive oil for butter, extra stock for body.
- Spicy: red pepper flakes, cayenne, or harissa.
- Gluten-free: GF pasta or serve over rice.
- Low-carb: zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—cool fully and store airtight up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of stock or water.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat on low and refresh seasoning to taste.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Most versions freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently.
What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?
Reduce briefly to thicken; loosen with stock, pasta water, or milk if too thick. Adjust salt and acid.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is weeknight friendly, flexible, and built around dependable cues. It gives you control without stress and delivers the comfort people expect. Serve this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon with a simple salad or crusty bread and dinner is done.
Do not rush the aromatics; let them soften until sweet before you add liquids. Avoid crowding the pan so moisture can escape and browning can happen. Taste your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon before serving and adjust salt, acid, and heat to your liking.
Recipe Card
Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Family-Style • sheet-pan ease
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef chuck cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
Instructions
- Sear beef in olive oil until browned, then transfer to slow cooker.
- Add carrots, onions, tomato paste, broth, thyme, and mushrooms.
- Stir, cover, and cook on LOW 8 hours or HIGH 4 hours.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes or bread.
- Prep Time: 20 min | Cooking Time: 8 hrs | Total Time: 8 hrs 20 min
- Kcal: ~420 per serving | Servings: 6
Notes & Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Good heat brings sweetness from onions and browning builds savory depth without bitterness. Salt sharpens flavor while a touch of acid at the end makes everything taste brighter. If the Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon sauce feels thick, add a splash of liquid; if it feels thin, simmer a minute longer.
Do not rush the aromatics; let them soften until sweet before you add liquids. Avoid crowding the pan so moisture can escape and browning can happen. Taste your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon before serving and adjust salt, acid, and heat to your liking.
This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is weeknight friendly, flexible, and built around dependable cues. It gives you control without stress and delivers the comfort people expect. Serve this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon with a simple salad or crusty bread and dinner is done.
