Fantastic Crockpot Beef Bourguignon 2 Hour Recipe

Crockpot Beef Bourguignon has been my go-to for those chilly evenings when I crave something deeply comforting and incredibly flavorful. I remember the first time I attempted a classic Beef Bourguignon; it involved hours at the stove, and while delicious, it was a production. Then, I discovered the magic of adapting it for the slow cooker. This slow cooker beef bourguignon version delivers all the rich, savory depth of the original but is so much less fuss. Imagine tender chunks of beef melting in a luscious red wine sauce, infused with bacon, herbs, and vegetables – pure bliss! It’s the kind of meal that makes your whole house smell amazing. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Bourguignon

This recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks who love French classics. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Effortless Preparation: Minimal active cooking time means you can set it and forget it.
• Incredible Flavor: Rich, deep, and savory, it tastes like it simmered for days.
• Tender Beef: The low and slow method ensures the beef is fall-apart tender every time.
• Perfect for Make Ahead: This make ahead crockpot beef bourguignon is even better the next day.
• Comfort Food King: It’s the ultimate hearty meal for cozy evenings or special gatherings.
• Impressive Results: Serve this best crockpot beef bourguignon and wow your guests with minimal effort.
• Versatile Serving: Pairs beautifully with so many sides, from creamy mashed potatoes to crusty bread.

Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Bourguignon

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delicious slow cooker beef bourguignon. I’ve found that using good quality ingredients really makes a difference in the final flavor profile.

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped – This adds a wonderful smoky depth right from the start.
• 3.5 lbs boneless beef chuck, cut into 2-inch chunks – Chuck roast is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes incredibly tender.
• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved – Small potatoes cook evenly and absorb all the delicious sauce.
• 3 large carrots, chopped – These add a touch of sweetness and color to the stew.
• 1 large onion, chopped – A foundational aromatic for any savory dish.
• 8 oz white pearl onions, peeled – Their small size and sweet flavor are classic in Bourguignon.
• 8 oz sliced mushrooms – I love cremini or button mushrooms for their earthy flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – Essential for that pungent, savory base.
• 2 cups dry red wine – A crucial component for authentic flavor; a Pinot Noir or Merlot works wonderfully.
• 2 cups beef broth – Adds richness and liquid for braising.
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch – This is our secret weapon for thickening the sauce to a perfect consistency.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – It adds a concentrated umami flavor and helps deepen the sauce’s color.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – For an extra layer of savory complexity.
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme – Its earthy, slightly floral notes are perfect for slow cooking.
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary – Adds a robust, piney aroma that complements the beef.
• 1 bay leaf – A classic aromatic that adds subtle depth.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

This recipe breaks down how to make a truly magnificent crockpot beef bourguignon, turning simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal. It’s surprisingly straightforward, and the slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting. Get ready for an amazing dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bacon and Beef Preparation

1. Step 1: Start by crisping up about 6 slices of thick-cut bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s beautifully golden brown and rendered its fat, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside – you’ll use this later for extra flavor and garnish.
2. Step 2: Now, prepare your beef. Cut about 3.5 lbs of boneless beef chuck into generous 2-inch chunks. Pat the beef dry with paper towels; this is key for getting a good sear.
3. Step 3: In that same skillet, with the rendered bacon fat still in it (if there’s too much, drain some off), sear the beef chunks in batches. Don’t crowd the pan! Sear them for about 3–5 minutes per side until they develop a deep, rich brown crust. This step builds incredible flavor. Transfer the seared beef directly into your crockpot.

Adding Vegetables and Aromatics

1. Step 4: Next, add all your prepared vegetables to the crockpot with the beef. This includes 1.5 lbs of baby potatoes (halved), 3 large carrots (chopped), 1 large onion (chopped), 8 oz of white pearl onions (peeled), and 8 oz of sliced mushrooms. Don’t forget to add 3 minced garlic cloves for that essential aromatic punch.

Creating the Rich Sauce

1. Step 5: In a separate large bowl, it’s time to build your luscious sauce. Whisk together 2 cups of dry red wine (I love using a Pinot Noir or Merlot for this), 2 cups of beef broth, and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. The cornstarch will act as our thickening agent, giving the sauce that perfect velvety texture.
2. Step 6: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for depth and color, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of umami. This mixture is the heart of your slow cooker French beef stew.
3. Step 7: Pour this flavorful wine mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
4. Step 8: Tuck in your fresh herbs: 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, and 1 bay leaf. These aromatics will infuse the stew beautifully as it cooks.

Slow Cooking and Tenderness

1. Step 9: Secure the lid on your crockpot. Set it to cook on the low setting for 6–8 hours. This gentle, long cooking process is what guarantees the beef becomes incredibly tender and melts in your mouth. The aroma filling your kitchen will be divine! Check for tenderness after 6 hours; the beef should easily shred with a fork.

Expert Tips for the Best Crockpot Beef Bourguignon

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this slow cooker beef bourguignon absolutely perfect. These tips will elevate your dish from good to unforgettable, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness every time you make it.

• Always sear your beef in batches. This step is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor base that you can’t get any other way.
• Don’t skip the bacon! The rendered fat adds incredible depth, and the crispy bits make a fantastic garnish.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A final pinch of salt and pepper can make all the difference.

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot Beef Bourguignon?

The real secret to a truly perfect authentic beef bourguignon slow cooker meal lies in two things: searing the beef properly to build flavor and using a good quality dry red wine. These make the dish sing! For more on the importance of searing, check out this guide to searing meat.

Can I make Crockpot Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic make ahead crockpot beef bourguignon. In fact, I think it tastes even better the next day. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot Beef Bourguignon?

The most common mistake is not searing the beef properly; this results in bland meat. Another pitfall is overcrowding the slow cooker, which steams rather than braises. Ensure your beef is tender before serving, or cook longer on low. Understanding the science behind slow cooking can help prevent these issues; learn more about how slow cooking works.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker French Beef Stew

This hearty slow cooker French beef stew is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic accompaniments. My personal favorite way to serve it is over a bed of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up all that rich, savory sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight. Another fantastic option is to serve it with crusty French bread for dipping – perfect for getting every last drop of that delicious gravy. You could also spoon it over tender egg noodles or a comforting bowl of creamy polenta for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s the ultimate comfort food experience!

Crockpot Beef Bourguignon Nutrition Facts

This hearty crockpot beef bourguignon is a rich and satisfying meal, and while I don’t have exact figures for every single ingredient variation, I can give you a good estimate per serving. Remember, these numbers are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brands and cuts of meat you use.

• Calories: Approximately 650
• Fat: Approximately 35g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 14g
• Protein: Approximately 45g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g
• Fiber: Approximately 4g
• Sugar: Approximately 6g
• Sodium: Approximately 500mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more detailed nutritional information on beef, you can consult the USDA’s nutritional labeling resources.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Beef Bourguignon

One of the best things about this hearty crockpot beef bourguignon is that it stores and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. After your delicious meal, let any leftovers cool down completely at room temperature for about an hour. Then, transfer the stew into airtight containers. I find glass containers work best for reheating. You can store these containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, this make ahead crockpot beef bourguignon freezes wonderfully. Once completely cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat until piping hot, or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Bourguignon Recipe Slow Cooker Easy

What is the best wine to use for Crockpot Beef Bourguignon?

For this beef bourguignon recipe slow cooker easy, I recommend a dry red wine like Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Burgundy. These wines have enough acidity and fruitiness to complement the rich beef and vegetables without overpowering the dish. Avoid sweet wines or those you wouldn’t enjoy drinking on their own! If you’re curious about different wine varietals, this guide to wine types might be helpful.

Why is my crockpot beef bourguignon watery?

A watery crockpot beef bourguignon often happens when the sauce isn’t thickened properly. Make sure you whisk the cornstarch thoroughly into the liquid mixture before adding it to the slow cooker. If it’s still too thin after cooking, you can remove the beef and vegetables, thicken the liquid on the stovetop with a cornstarch slurry, and then return the solids.

Can I make this without wine? What’s a good substitute for a Crockpot Beef Bourguignon?

Yes, you absolutely can make a delicious crockpot beef bourguignon without wine! Replace the red wine with an equal amount of good quality beef broth or a mix of beef broth and tart cherry juice for acidity. Some people also add a tablespoon or two of red wine vinegar to the broth mixture to mimic the wine’s tang. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be incredibly flavorful.

How do I get the beef really tender in a slow cooker?

The key to tender beef in this slow cooker beef bourguignon is low and slow cooking. Ensure your beef chuck is cut into large chunks and that you sear it properly before adding it to the slow cooker. Cooking on the low setting for 6-8 hours allows the connective tissues in the tougher cuts of beef to break down, resulting in that wonderfully melt-in-your-mouth texture. For more tips on cooking meat, explore this resource on meat preparation.

Variations of Crockpot Beef Bourguignon You Can Try

While this classic recipe is fantastic on its own, I love experimenting with variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for your next slow cooker French beef stew adventure!

• Tomato-Free Version: If you prefer a more traditional Bourguignon or have a sensitivity, simply omit the tomato paste. You’ll still get incredible depth from the beef, bacon, and wine. This is a great option for a tomato free crockpot beef bourguignon.
• Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Double the mushrooms! Add an extra 8 oz of your favorite variety – shiitake or cremini offer a wonderfully earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
• Alcohol-Free Option: For a family-friendly meal or if you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute the red wine with 2 cups of high-quality beef broth mixed with 1-2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar for acidity, or even tart cherry juice for a fruity note.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the other vegetables for a subtle warmth that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors.

Fantastic Crockpot Beef Bourguignon 2 Hour Recipe

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Crockpot Beef Bourguignon is a simple and comforting French classic made easy in your slow cooker. Tender beef melts in a rich, savory sauce with bacon, red wine, and hearty vegetables, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 3.5 lbs boneless beef chuck, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
• 3 large carrots, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 8 oz white pearl onions, peeled
• 8 oz sliced mushrooms
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups dry red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 bay leaf

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Instructions

1. Crisp up the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Cut beef chuck roast into 2-inch chunks.
3. In the same skillet with bacon grease, sear beef in batches for 3–5 minutes per side until browned. Transfer seared beef to your crockpot.
4. Add baby potatoes, carrots, chopped onion, pearl onions, garlic, and mushrooms to the crockpot.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together red wine, beef broth, cornstarch, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Pour the wine mixture over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
7. Tuck in fresh thyme sprigs, rosemary sprigs, and the bay leaf.
8. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until beef is fall-apart tender.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
• For an alcohol-free version, replace red wine with beef broth or tart cherry juice, and add 1–2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar for acidity.
• Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttered egg noodles.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approximately 600-700 (estimated)
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A
• Fat: N/A
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: N/A
• Fiber: N/A
• Protein: N/A
• Cholesterol: N/A

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