Introduction to Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
I know how precious mealtime can be—it’s more than just eating; it’s a moment to connect with our loved ones. That’s why I’ve fallen head over heels for my Crockpot Beef Bourguignon. This dish is like a warm hug at the end of a hectic day. Imagine coming home to tender beef, rich red wine, and fragrant herbs wafting through the air! It’s sure to impress family and friends, plus it’s so easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that brings comfort without all the fuss!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
This Crockpot Beef Bourguignon is a dream for anyone juggling a busy schedule. It’s incredibly easy to throw together; just prep, toss everything in, and let your slow cooker do the magic! The rich and savory aroma that fills your home while it cooks will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner. Plus, the depth of flavor is simply stunning for minimal effort, making it a go-to dish for impressing guests or satisfying a hungry family.
Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of a delicious Crockpot Beef Bourguignon. Here’s what you’ll need to coax out those fabulous flavors:
- Thick-cut bacon: Chopping this into pieces adds a smoky richness that deepens the flavor of the dish. You can use turkey bacon for a lighter twist.
- Boneless beef chuck: The star of the show! This cut is well-marbled for tenderness. If you’re in a pinch, you can sub in sirloin, though the texture will vary.
- Baby potatoes: Halved for nice bite-sized pieces, they soak up that luscious sauce. Feel free to swap with diced Yukon Gold or russet potatoes.
- Carrots: Chopped large for a sweet and earthy balance. You might try using parsnips for a different flavor profile!
- Onion: A large onion, chopped, brings sweetness and depth. Shallots are a great alternative if you prefer a softer flavor.
- White pearl onions: These charming little onions add elegance and a subtle sweetness. Frozen pearl onions are a handy shortcut if you’re short on time!
- Sliced mushrooms: Add umami goodness and body. Cremini or button mushrooms work perfectly; don’t skip this ingredient!
- Garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic punch, it brightens the flavors and invites everyone to the table.
- Dry red wine: This is key for depth. I recommend a full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. It doesn’t have to be fancy; just something you’d enjoy drinking!
- Beef broth: Adds moisture and richness. For a healthier option, use low-sodium broth to keep the salt in check.
- Cornstarch: A thickener that will help create a lovely sauce as it cooks. If you need gluten-free options, cornstarch is your friend!
- Tomato paste: A little dollop brings acidity and sweetness. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a twist.
- Worcestershire sauce: This sauce is a flavor booster! It enhances the savory notes perfectly.
- Fresh thyme and rosemary: Herbs that deliver an aromatic touch, making your kitchen smell divine. Dried herbs work but fresh is always a win.
- Bay leaf: Often underestimated, this leaf adds an aromatic nuance that ties everything together beautifully.
You’ll find precise measurements at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to bring this Crockpot Beef Bourguignon to life! Follow these steps, and soon, you’ll have a cozy meal waiting for you. Trust me; your future self will thank you!
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add those delicious chopped bacon slices and let them sizzle. You want them nice and crispy, like little flavor bombs!
Once they’re golden, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a bowl, leaving the bacon drippings behind. This will enhance the richness in your dish!
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
Next, let’s cut that boneless beef chuck into hearty chunks. Aim for 2-inch pieces; they’ll soak up all the flavors beautifully. If you’re not keen on cutting meat, ask your butcher for help or even purchase pre-cut beef stew meat.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
In the same skillet, with the leftover bacon drippings, add the beef chunks in batches. Sear them for about 3–5 minutes per side until they’re nicely browned. This step is crucial for flavor!
Once done, transfer the seared beef straight into your crockpot. That beautiful caramelization is going to elevate your dish and keep it comforting!
Step 4: Combine the Vegetables
Now it’s time to throw in those vibrant vegetables! Layer the baby potatoes, chopped carrots, pearl onions, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic right on top of the beef in the crockpot.
Don’t worry about perfect placement; they’ll dance together during cooking!
Step 5: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry red wine, beef broth, cornstarch, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. This sauce is the heart of your dish, blending all the layers of flavor beautifully.
Once mixed, pour this over the beef and veggies, making sure it covers everything. Then, add the fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf for that fragrance that will make you swoon.
Step 6: Cook in the Crockpot
Finally, cover your crockpot and set it to low. Now, you can relax! Allow it to cook for 6–8 hours.
By the time it’s ready, your kitchen will smell like absolute heaven, and the beef will be fall-apart tender, waiting to warm your heart and soul!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
- Choose a good quality red wine—it makes all the difference in flavor.
- For a heartier version, add more vegetables like mushrooms or even green beans.
- Check the seasoning before serving; a touch of salt or pepper can elevate the dish.
- Let leftovers sit overnight; they get even more delicious as the flavors meld.
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works great for stovetop cooking.
- Large skillet: For crisping the bacon and searing beef. You can also use a heavy pot if needed.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring bacon and meat without leaving behind the drippings.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping all your ingredients; make chopping a breeze!
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient mixing; a must-have in any kitchen!
Variations of Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
- Vegetable Bourguignon: Swap out the beef for extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Mushroom Lover’s: Add more mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for an earthy, umami-rich twist that even meat lovers will appreciate.
- Herb Infusion: Combine fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon for a refreshing take that brightens the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a few red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
- Different Protein: Use chicken thighs or even pork for a different meat experience while still maintaining that comforting vibe.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
- Crusty Bread: A great option for soaking up all that delicious sauce—freshly baked baguette or sourdough works wonders!
- Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy a glass of the same red wine you used for cooking to enhance the flavors.
- Warm Bowls: For presentation, serve in warm bowls to keep your dish cozy and inviting!
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting twist, consider a side of creamy mashed potatoes—perfect for pairing.
FAQs about Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
Can I freeze Crockpot Beef Bourguignon? Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What type of red wine should I use? A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works wonders. Pick one you enjoy drinking, as the quality will enhance the flavors in your dish. Don’t stress; it doesn’t have to be expensive!
Can I make this dish in advance? Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead improves the flavor even more. Just reheat on the stove or in the crockpot on low until warmed through!
What can I substitute for beef broth? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use vegetable broth instead. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How do I get the beef really tender? Cooking on low for a longer time is key to achieving that fall-apart texture. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 4 hours, but low is the way to go for tenderness!
Final Thoughts on Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
The joy of coming home to a simmering pot of Crockpot Beef Bourguignon is simply unmatched. This dish not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas, but it also gathers family and friends around the table for shared laughter and stories.
It effortlessly combines comfort, flavor, and ease. With each tender bite, you’ll taste the love and care poured into preparation. So, as you bring this recipe into your home, take a moment to relish the warmth it offers, creating memories that are just as rich as the meal itself. Happy cooking!
Print
Crockpot Beef Bourguignon
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Beef Bourguignon is a comforting and hearty dish made with tender beef, vegetables, and infused with rich flavors from red wine and herbs.
Ingredients
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 3.5 lbs boneless beef chuck
- 1.5 lb 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
Instructions
- Start by crisping up the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and golden, use a slotted spoon to scoop it into a bowl and set it aside for later.
- While the bacon’s sizzling away, cut your chuck roast into hearty 2-inch chunks.
- In that same skillet, sear the beef in batches for 3–5 minutes per side until beautifully browned. Transfer the seared pieces straight into your crockpot.
- Add the baby potatoes, carrots, onions, pearl onions, garlic, and mushrooms to the crockpot.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the red wine, beef broth, cornstarch, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour that mixture over the beef and veggies, then tuck in sprigs of thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender and your kitchen smells like pure comfort.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance for improved flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables according to your preference.
- Make sure to use a good quality red wine for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
