Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy (Beef Bourguignon) Recipe

Indulge your taste buds with the rich flavors of slow cooker beef burgundy, a classic French dish that's perfect for those cozy nights in. This dish, also known as beef bourguignon, is a hearty meal full of succulent beef, earthy mushrooms, and tender vegetables all bathed in a sumptuous red wine sauce. It's the ultimate comfort food that's easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Photos of Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy (Beef Bourguignon) Recipe

A few ingredients might not be readily available in your pantry. Crimini mushrooms, also known as baby bella, are small, brown mushrooms with a deep, earthy flavor that complements the robust taste of the beef. Pearl onions are small, sweet onions that add a pleasant crunch and flavor to the dish. Don't forget to pick up a good quality red wine, as it's a key component to the dish's unique flavor.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy

Bacon: Provides a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.

Roast: The star of the dish, roast gives a substantial texture.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

Crimini mushrooms: Offers an earthy flavor.

Carrots: Gives a sweet taste and crunchy texture.

Beef broth: Creates a savory base for the dish.

Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and gives a tangy flavor.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, spicy flavor.

Thyme: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor.

Bay leaf: Gives a distinct, mildly bitter taste.

White pearl onions: Provides a sweet, mild flavor.

Red wine: Deepens the flavor of the dish.

Butter: Adds creaminess to the sauce.

Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce.

One reader, Irvine Meek says:

This slow cooker beef burgundy recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the meat is incredibly tender. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. Plus, the aroma that fills the house while it's cooking is simply divine. I highly recommend giving it a try!

Irvine Meek

Techniques Required for Making Beef Burgundy

How to brown the beef: In a preheated skillet, brown the seasoned beef on each side for 4 to 6 minutes until a golden crust forms. This step adds flavor to the beef and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

How to cook the mushrooms: After removing the beef from the skillet, add the mushrooms and cook them for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and have released their juices. This step helps to develop the rich, earthy flavor of the mushrooms.

How to thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the butter and flour to form a smooth paste. Add this mixture to the slow cooker and stir it in. Allow the sauce to cook for an additional hour or until it has thickened to the desired consistency. This step adds body and richness to the sauce, creating a luscious texture for the dish.

Looking for the best beef recipes to try? This beef bourguignon is famous for its red wine-based sauce that gives our tender slow-cooked beef and hearty veggies rich and savory flavors. This slow cooker recipe might take some time to make but it results in delicious fall-apart beef pieces that will surely impress your dinner guests. You can even wow your date and make this for your dinner for two .

How To Make Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy (Beef Bourguignon)

This beef burgundy is a French dish with a red wine sauce that results in a tender and umami-filled meal when cooked in a slow-cooker.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 8 hours

Total: 8 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6Bacon,slices
3lbsroast,chuck
1tspKosher salt,divided
½tspground black pepper,coarse
1lbcrimini mushrooms,cut in half
3carrots,peeled and cut
4cupsbeef broth
3tbsptomato paste
3clovesgarlic,minced
5stalks thyme,fresh
1bay leaf
½: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>1cupred wine
2tbspbutter,unsalted
2tbspflour

Instructions

Preheat an aluminum slow cooker insert on high heat.
Cook the bacon until crisp, then remove.
Season the beef with half the salt and the pepper.
Add to the skillet and brown on each side for 4 to 6 minutes on each side.
Remove the beef from the pan and add in the mushrooms and lower the heat to medium high.
Cook the mushrooms for 3 minutes, stir then cook another 3 minutes.
Into the slow cooker, add the mushrooms, carrots, half the bacon, broth, the remaining half of the salt, tomato paste, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, pearl onions, and red wine.
Cut the beef into 2-inch chunks and add it to the slow cooker.
Stir all the ingredients until well mixed and cook on Low for 7 hours.
In a small bowl, mix the butter and flour and add it to the slow cooker and stir.
Cook an additional hour or until the sauce thickened.

Nutrition

Calories: 206.13kcal
Fat: 11.86g
Saturated Fat: 4.81g
Trans Fat: 0.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.61g
Carbohydrates: 13.37g
Fiber: 2.10g
Sugar: 5.06g
Protein: 7.76g
Cholesterol: 21.99mg
Sodium: 683.22mg
Calcium: 51.66mg
Potassium: 753.07mg
Iron: 1.50mg
Vitamin A: 226.97µg
Vitamin C: 8.15mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This is because overcrowding can cause the meat to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable brown crust from forming. If necessary, brown the beef in batches to ensure each piece has enough space. This will enhance the flavor of your slow cooker beef burgundy.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to save time on prep work.

Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and less time spent on washing dishes.

Invest in a good quality slow cooker: A good quality slow cooker with even heat distribution can save time and ensure even cooking.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra portions for quick and easy meals in the future.

Utilize kitchen gadgets: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and mandolines to speed up the prep process.

One-pot meals: Look for recipes that require minimal dishes and can be cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup.

Cook in bulk: Cook a large quantity and portion it out for multiple meals throughout the week to save time on cooking every day.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy (Beef Bourguignon) Recipe

bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is an Italian bacon that is cured but not smoked, providing a similar rich and savory flavor to the dish.
roast - Substitute with beef chuck: Beef chuck is well-marbled and flavorful, making it a suitable substitute for roast in slow-cooked dishes like beef bourguignon.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the dish.
ground black pepper - Substitute with cracked black pepper: Cracked black pepper can be used as a substitute for ground black pepper, adding a slightly coarser texture and robust flavor to the dish.
crimini mushrooms - Substitute with portobello mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms have a similar earthy flavor and meaty texture, making them a suitable substitute for crimini mushrooms in the recipe.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips can be used as a substitute for carrots, providing a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor to the dish.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth, providing a lighter and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
tomato paste - Substitute with sun-dried tomato paste: Sun-dried tomato paste can be used as a substitute for regular tomato paste, adding a deeper and more concentrated tomato flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
thyme - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can be used as a substitute for thyme, adding a piney and slightly citrusy flavor to the dish.
bay leaf - Substitute with juniper berries: Juniper berries can be used as a substitute for bay leaf, adding a unique piney and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
white pearl onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for white pearl onions, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
red wine - Substitute with beef broth and a splash of red wine vinegar: A combination of beef broth and red wine vinegar can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for red wine, providing acidity and depth of flavor to the dish.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter, providing a healthier fat option and a slightly fruity flavor to the dish.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a substitute for flour to thicken the sauce, providing a gluten-free alternative and a clear, glossy finish to the dish.

Presenting Your Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Elevate the plating: When presenting the beef burgundy, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use a wide, shallow bowl or a deep plate to showcase the dish beautifully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element such as toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried shallots to provide a delightful contrast to the tender beef and vegetables.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the rich colors and textures of the beef burgundy to stand out and captivate the eye.
Highlight the pearl onions: Arrange the pearl onions strategically on top of the beef and vegetables to draw attention to their delicate appearance and sweet flavor.
Consider the vessel: Opt for a sophisticated and visually appealing serving vessel that complements the rustic charm of the beef burgundy, such as a classic ceramic bowl or a polished copper pot.
Artful drizzling: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of reduced red wine sauce around the edge of the plate for an artistic touch that enhances the overall presentation.
Balance the colors: Pay attention to the color composition on the plate, ensuring a harmonious balance between the deep, rich hues of the beef burgundy and the vibrant accents of the garnishes.

Essential Tools for Making Beef Burgundy in a Slow Cooker

Aluminum slow cooker insert: This is a specialized insert designed for use with a slow cooker. It is made of aluminum and is designed to evenly distribute heat for cooking.
Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It is an essential tool for browning the beef and cooking the bacon in this recipe.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing ingredients together, such as the butter and flour in this recipe.
Tongs: Tongs are used for flipping and turning the beef while browning in the skillet. They are also helpful for serving the cooked beef burgundy.
Knife: A knife is used for cutting the beef into chunks and preparing the vegetables for this recipe.
Stirring spoon: A stirring spoon is used for mixing the ingredients in the slow cooker and ensuring even distribution of flavors.
Slow cooker: A slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is an essential tool for this recipe. It allows for long, slow cooking of the beef burgundy, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used for accurately measuring and adding the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to the recipe.
Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used for accurately measuring and adding the beef broth, red wine, and other liquid ingredients to the recipe.

Storing and Freezing Your Beef Burgundy

Allow the beef bourguignon to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags.
If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Store the beef bourguignon in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place the airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, thaw the frozen beef bourguignon in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the thawed stew in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, add a little beef broth or water to thin it out.
For best results, consume the reheated beef bourguignon within 2 days.

How To Reheat Leftover Beef Bourguignon

Reheat the beef bourguignon in a covered pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
For a quicker option, transfer the beef bourguignon to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, then stir and continue heating in 30-second intervals until heated through.
If you have leftover beef bourguignon and want to create a new dish, try shredding the beef and using it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. The rich, savory flavors of the beef bourguignon pair well with the bold spices of Mexican cuisine.
For a comforting and easy meal, reheat the beef bourguignon and serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles. The starchy base will soak up the delicious sauce and provide a satisfying contrast to the tender beef.
To add a crispy element to your leftover beef bourguignon, try topping it with a handful of crispy fried onions or croutons before serving. The crunch will complement the tender beef and the rich sauce.

Random Fact About Beef Bourguignon

The slow cooker beef burgundy recipe is a classic French dish, also known as beef bourguignon. It originated in the Burgundy region of France and is traditionally made with red wine, which gives the dish its rich flavor. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, and it's a great way to enjoy a taste of French cuisine without too much effort.

Is Making Beef Burgundy at Home Economical?

This slow cooker beef burgundy recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like roast, mushrooms, and carrots makes it budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $35-$40. The rich flavors and hearty portions make it a satisfying meal. I rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and quality.

Is This Beef Burgundy Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker beef burgundy recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to some of its ingredients and cooking methods. Here's an analysis of the recipe:

The recipe includes bacon, which is high in saturated fat and sodium. While it adds flavor, it can contribute to an unhealthy diet if consumed in excess.
The beef used in the recipe is likely a fatty cut, which can also be high in saturated fat. However, the slow cooking process can help break down the tough fibers and make the meat more tender.
The recipe calls for a significant amount of beef broth, which can be high in sodium. This can be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
On the positive side, the recipe includes vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, and onions, which provide essential nutrients and fiber.
The use of red wine in the recipe can offer some potential health benefits, as it contains antioxidants like resveratrol. However, the alcohol content is likely to be minimal after the long cooking process.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of bacon used or opt for a leaner alternative, such as turkey bacon
Trim any visible fat from the beef before cooking to reduce the overall fat content
Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt intake
Increase the number of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding more carrots, celery, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale
Serve the beef burgundy with a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal
Control portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet

Editor's Opinion on This Beef Burgundy Recipe

This slow cooker beef burgundy recipe is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of bacon, beef, mushrooms, and red wine creates a rich and flavorful stew that is sure to impress. The use of slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in tender and succulent beef. The addition of pearl onions and carrots adds a delightful sweetness to the dish, while the thyme and bay leaf infuse it with aromatic depth. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy (Beef Bourguignon) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and a hint of parmesan cheese

Roasted Brussel Sprouts: Crispy brussel sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze and topped with toasted almonds

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed in a sweet and savory honey butter sauce

Alternative Recipes Similar to Beef Bourguignon

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and flavorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a zesty vinaigrette. It's a perfect dish for a light and satisfying meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this tropical and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of coconut milk and the health benefits of chia seeds. It's a guilt-free treat that's perfect for any time of the day.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Beef Bourguignon

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and elegant appetizer, try making stuffed mushrooms. Start by removing the stems from the mushrooms and filling the caps with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Toast slices of crusty bread and top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. For a twist, try adding toppings like balsamic glaze, mozzarella, or prosciutto for a unique flavor profile.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy (Beef Bourguignon) Recipe:

This recipe for slow cooker beef burgundy is a classic French dish that has been carefully crafted to bring out the rich flavors of the ingredients. The use of high-quality beef roast and red wine ensures a depth of flavor, while the addition of crispy bacon and aromatic vegetables adds layers of complexity. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tender and succulent dish. Trust in the traditional techniques and ingredients used in this recipe to create a truly authentic beef bourguignon experience.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of meat such as stewing beef, chuck roast, or even lamb for this recipe. Just ensure that the meat is suitable for slow cooking and has enough marbling to keep it tender and flavorful.

Can I omit the red wine from the recipe?

If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of beef broth. The wine adds depth of flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

Can I prepare this recipe a day ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, this dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the slow cooker before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes very well. Store the leftovers in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Certainly! While crimini mushrooms add a rich flavor, you can use other varieties such as button mushrooms or porcini mushrooms based on your preference and availability.