There are certain meals that feel like a deep exhale at the end of a long day, and beef bourguignon is one of them. It’s rich, comforting, and slow-cooked in a way that makes the whole house smell warm and inviting. This easy slow cooker beef bourguignon recipe keeps all the soul of the classic dish but removes the stress and constant attention that traditional versions often require.
Instead of hovering over the stove, you let the slow cooker do the work. The beef becomes meltingly tender, the vegetables soak up all that savory flavor, and the sauce turns silky and satisfying. It’s the kind of dinner that feels special enough for a weekend but easy enough to make on a regular weekday when you want something hearty and homemade.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Cozy Classic Made More Approachable
Beef bourguignon has a reputation for being complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. By using a slow cooker, the process becomes far more forgiving. There’s no rushing, no precise timing to stress over, and no fear of ruining the dish. Everything cooks gently together, building layers of flavor as the hours pass.
This version is designed for real kitchens and real schedules. You do a bit of prep, let it cook low and slow, and come back to a meal that feels like it took far more effort than it actually did.
Ingredients
These quantities make 4 to 6 servings.
For the stew
- 2 1/2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 large carrots, sliced into thick rounds
- 8 ounces mushrooms, halved
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For finishing
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and coat the beef
Place the beef chunks in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, then toss with the flour until each piece is lightly coated. This step helps thicken the sauce later and gives the beef a better texture.
Step 2: Brown the beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the beef on all sides. This doesn’t need to cook the beef through, just develop a deep, golden color. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 4: Build the sauce
Stir the tomato paste into the onion mixture, then pour in the red wine and beef broth. Add the thyme, bay leaves, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then pour it over the beef in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Add the vegetables
Layer the carrots and mushrooms on top of the beef. Gently press them down so they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
Step 6: Slow cook
Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is very tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
Step 7: Finish and adjust
Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let the stew sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle.
What Makes This Version So Comforting
Instead of sharp or heavy flavors, this dish builds warmth gradually. The beef becomes tender without falling apart too quickly, the vegetables soften but keep their shape, and the sauce thickens naturally as everything cooks together. It’s rich without feeling overwhelming and hearty without being heavy.
Serving Ideas That Feel Just Right
Keep it simple
Serve the beef bourguignon in wide bowls with plenty of sauce. A simple side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking it all up.
Make it extra cozy
Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles turn this into a deeply comforting, sit-down dinner.
Lighten the plate
A simple green salad on the side balances the richness and keeps the meal feeling complete.
Tips for Best Results
Choose the right cut
Beef chuck is ideal for slow cooking. It becomes tender and flavorful without drying out.
Don’t skip browning
This step adds depth to the sauce and gives the stew its rich, savory base.
Let it cook low and slow
Longer cooking at a lower temperature produces the best texture and flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make ahead
This stew tastes even better the next day. You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 560 kcal
Protein: 42 g
Fat: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion size.
Expanded FAQ
Can I skip browning the beef?
You can, but browning adds depth and richness to the final dish. If you have time, it’s worth doing.
What type of wine works best?
A dry red wine with good body works well. Choose something you would enjoy drinking.
Can I cook this entirely in the slow cooker?
You can add everything directly to the slow cooker, but sautéing first improves flavor.
Why is my sauce thin?
If the sauce is thinner than you like, remove the lid and cook on high for 20–30 minutes to reduce slightly.
Can I add the vegetables later?
Yes. Adding mushrooms and carrots during the last 2–3 hours will keep them firmer.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Let it cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
The flour coating usually does the job, but you can stir in a small slurry of flour and water near the end if needed.
Final Thoughts
Easy slow cooker beef bourguignon is one of those recipes that feels like a reward. It fills the kitchen with comforting aromas, feeds people generously, and delivers deep flavor without demanding constant attention. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down, sit at the table a little longer, and enjoy something warm and satisfying.
This dish is dependable, forgiving, and endlessly comforting. Whether you’re making it for a quiet family dinner or a relaxed gathering, it has a way of making the moment feel special without any added pressure. Once it becomes part of your routine, it’s hard to imagine cold evenings without it.