The aroma of savory beef simmering alongside rich red wine is often enough to transport me to a cozy French bistro nestled in a bustling street. That's exactly what I cherish about making Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon at home—it's like a warm hug in a bowl! This classic recipe doesn’t just elevate your weeknight dinners; it’s a showstopper that's perfect for gatherings too. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll create a wonderfully hearty meal that practically cooks itself. Plus, it’s a great way to surprise even the pickiest eaters with tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Are you ready to dive into the magic of this timeless dish? Let’s bring that bistro vibe right into your kitchen!
Why is Beef Bourguignon so special?
Melt-in-your-mouth perfection: This Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon transforms tough cuts of beef into succulent bites that melt effortlessly in your mouth.
Hearty comfort: Each serving is a cozy celebration, combining tender beef, sweet pearl onions, and savory carrots all simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce.
Effortless preparation: With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, this recipe lets you focus on enjoying your time with friends and family while it does the work for you.
Wine-infused flavor: The inclusion of red wine enriches the dish, adding depth and complexity that elevates your home dining experience to new heights.
Crowd-pleasing dish: Perfect for gatherings, this Beef Bourguignon not only impresses but also brings everyone together over shared plates of comfort food goodness—ideal for transforming any dinner into a special occasion!
Looking for more comforting ideas? Check out our bistro-inspired recipes for more ways to savor good food.
Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon Ingredients
• Treat yourself to the rich flavors of this timeless dish with these essential ingredients.
For the Stew
• Beef – 2 cups cut into chunks; use chuck roast for perfect tenderness.
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons; this healthy fat is perfect for browning the beef.
• Red wine – 2 cups; use a full-bodied variety for depth in flavor.
• Beef broth – 2 cups; adds moisture and enhances the beefy goodness.
• Pearl onions – 2, peeled; these add a touch of sweetness to the stew.
• Carrots – 3 medium, sliced; they bring natural sweetness and color to the mix.
• Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon; deepens the flavor and adds a hint of acidity.
• Flour – 3 tablespoons; thickens the sauce, creating a rich, luscious texture.
• Butter – 3 tablespoons; for sautéing additional veggies or enriching the sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon; adds depth with a savory umami punch.
• Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon; this herb brings a lovely earthiness to the dish.
• Salt and pepper – to taste; season accordingly to enhance flavors.
Enjoy the experience of preparing this Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon, and let the aromas fill your home, making it a haven of warmth and comfort!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks, searing them for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned on all sides, creating a golden crust. This step locks in the juices and enhances flavor. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the peeled pearl onions and sliced carrots. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are slightly translucent and the carrots begin to soften. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to capture those delicious drippings from the beef, adding depth to your Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot, sprinkling it with 3 tablespoons of flour. Stir to evenly coat the beef with flour, which will help thicken the sauce later. Next, pour in 2 cups of rich red wine and 2 cups of beef broth, followed by 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to combine all the flavors. Once simmering, cover the pot with a lid to keep the moisture in, and either transfer it to a preheated slow cooker or reduce the heat to low on the stovetop. Cook for about 6-8 hours in the slow cooker or 2-3 hours on the stovetop for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Step 5: Finish with Additional Vegetables
If desired, in the final hour of cooking, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté any additional vegetables of your choice, such as mushrooms or green beans, until tender. These can be stirred into the Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon just before serving, enhancing the dish with extra flavor and texture.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the cooking time is complete, check the tenderness of the beef; it should be fork-tender and beautifully infused with all the flavors. Ladle the hearty Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon into bowls and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy the comforting aromas that fill the air as you share this delightful dish with family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon ahead of time can save you precious moments on busy weeknights! You can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container after cooling. Additionally, you can combine all the sauce ingredients (red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to cook, just combine everything in your slow cooker or Dutch oven, and let it simmer as directed. This way, you’ll still enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich flavor without the rush!
What to Serve with Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that beautifully complement this rich, flavorful stew.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture soaks up the luscious sauce, creating a comforting harmony on your plate. Each bite just melts in your mouth!
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp and tender, these veggies add a fresh crunch, providing a perfect contrast to the hearty beef. Toss them in garlic butter for an aromatic finish!
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Crusty French Bread: Serve a warm, rustic loaf to soak up the delicious broth. It's perfect for a cozy dinner, inviting everyone to linger a little longer at the table.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fragrant, a rice pilaf infused with herbs offers a subtle backdrop that balances the bold flavors of the stew beautifully.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized, roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes elevate the meal with their earthy sweetness and natural flavors.
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Rich Red Wine: Pairing with a glass of the same red wine used in the dish enhances the overall flavor experience. It’s a classic combination for a reason!
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Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a silky mousse that mirrors the richness of the beef bourguignon, but with a light, airy finish that rounds out the meal.
How to Store and Freeze Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
Fridge: Store any leftover Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures it remains flavorful and safe to eat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beef bourguignon in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space at the top, as the stew will expand when frozen.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftover beef bourguignon as a filling for savory pies or as a topping for baked potatoes for a delicious twist on the original dish!
Expert Tips for Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
Choosing the Right Beef: Use chuck roast for the best results; it becomes tender and absorbs flavors beautifully during the slow cooking process.
Perfect Browning: Don't rush the browning step! Taking your time to sear the beef develops rich flavors that elevate your Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon.
Wine Quality: Select a good-quality red wine that you would enjoy drinking; this will directly impact the flavor of the dish, making it richer and more enjoyable.
Check for Seasoning: Taste the stew before serving and adjust salt and pepper accordingly. Each broth can differ in saltiness, so taste-testing is key!
Adding Veggies: Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like mushrooms or green beans. Sauté them separately and fold them in at the end for added texture.
Let it Rest: After cooking, let the stew sit for a bit before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, creating a comforting Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon that’s memorable!
Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these delightful twists that elevate your Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon experience!
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Mushroom Medley:
Swap in your favorite mushrooms instead of some beef to add an earthy depth. They absorb the delicious sauce beautifully. -
Herb-Infused:
Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for an aromatic finish. The fragrance of freshly chopped herbs brightens every bite, making each serving sing with flavor. -
Smoky Flavor:
Add a touch of smokiness with smoked paprika or diced bacon. This adds a savory richness that dances on the palate. -
Sweet Peppers:
Incorporate sliced bell peppers for a vibrant pop of color and sweetness. Their tender texture enhances the hearty stew while introducing a new flavor profile. -
Spicy Kick:
For those who love heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This lively twist transforms your Bourguignon into a spicy delight perfect for heat seekers! -
Gluten-Free:
Swap regular flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free thickening option. This makes it accessible for those with dietary restrictions while keeping the delightful consistency. -
Vegetable Power:
Boost the nutrition by adding an array of vegetables such as zucchini or sweet potatoes. These add wonderful flavors and textures to each spoonful. -
Creamy Twist:
Finish with a splash of heavy cream for a rich, luxurious sauce that adds a velvety touch to your dish. Perfect for indulgent evenings!
Enjoy the endless possibilities with your Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon, transforming it into a unique masterpiece every time! Looking for more simple yet impressive ideas? Explore our wonderful bistro-inspired recipes and let your cooking adventures continue!
Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon?
For the best results, I highly recommend using chuck roast. This cut becomes incredibly tender during the slow cooking process and absorbs flavors beautifully, making it perfect for a satisfying stew.
How do I store leftovers of Beef Bourguignon?
After enjoying your Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful! Just make sure it’s completely cooled down before sealing it.
Can I freeze Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! You can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To avoid any spillage, remember to leave some space at the top of the container as the stew will expand when frozen. It’s so convenient to have a delicious meal ready to go!
How do I properly reheat Beef Bourguignon?
To reheat, take the frozen stew out a day in advance and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in intervals, stirring in between each session to distribute the heat evenly.
What should I do if my stew is too salty?
If your Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon ends up too salty, don’t worry! You can balance it out by adding a bit of unsweetened apple sauce or mashed potatoes, which absorb excess salt. Additionally, adding more vegetables or broth can dilute the saltiness. Adjust to your taste, and you'll be right back on track!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can certainly adapt your Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon to be gluten-free! Substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Just mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water to make a slurry before adding it to the stew, ensuring all your guests can enjoy this comforting dish!
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon Bliss
Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 2 cups beef, cut into chunks use chuck roast for perfect tenderness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for browning the beef
- 2 cups red wine use a full-bodied variety
- 2 cups beef broth adds moisture
- 2 pieces pearl onions, peeled
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons butter for sautéing additional veggies
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef by heating olive oil in a Dutch oven. Sear beef chunks for 5-7 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté the pearl onions and sliced carrots in the same pot for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent and carrots soften.
- Combine browned beef with flour in the pot. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Season to taste.
- Simmer over medium heat, cover, and cook for 6-8 hours in a slow cooker or 2-3 hours on stovetop.
- In the final hour, sauté additional veggies in butter and stir them in just before serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy.
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