Name: Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489165H4M2S
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir); 2 cups beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups carrots, sliced; 2 cups mushrooms, quartered; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortless this recipe is while still feeling so indulgent. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing me to focus on enjoying the evening. The flavors develop beautifully over time, blending the beef, wine, and vegetables into a perfectly balanced stew. It’s ideal for a romantic dinner, a cozy family meal, or even when I just crave something comforting and classic. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a slice of crusty bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
2 cups beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups carrots, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, quartered
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Then, I brown the beef cubes on all sides to build that deep, savory flavor before transferring them to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, I sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, then add them to the slow cooker.
Next, I add the carrots, mushrooms, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. I stir everything together so the flavors can meld.
I cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef becomes fork-tender.
Before serving, I remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 8 hours to cook on low (or 4 hours on high). I love how it can simmer away during the day and be ready for a cozy dinner by evening.

Variations

I sometimes use pearl onions instead of chopped onions for a more traditional touch.
For a deeper flavor, I add a splash of brandy or cognac before the slow cooking begins.
If I want a thicker sauce, I whisk a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch into a bit of cold broth and stir it in near the end of cooking.
I occasionally swap beef chuck for short ribs or brisket when I want a slightly richer texture.
For a lighter version, I’ve made this with chicken thighs and white wine — it’s different but still delicious.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat until it’s heated through. It also freezes beautifully — I let it cool completely, then freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

I mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the hot stew, letting it simmer until thickened.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes, I replace the wine with additional beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar or grape juice for depth of flavor.

What kind of wine works best?

I prefer a dry red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir — they give the stew a rich, smooth taste without being overpowering.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often brown the beef and chop the vegetables the night before, then store them in the fridge until I’m ready to start the slow cooker.

What should I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

I love it with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or a crusty French baguette to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s rustic yet elegant, comforting yet sophisticated — perfect for a special dinner or just when I want something soul-warming and delicious. Every bite feels like a little celebration of good food and slow, simple cooking.