This Easy Crock Pot Beef Bourguignon is a warm and hearty dish that combines tender beef with yummy mushrooms, carrots, and rich flavors from red wine and herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
You really can’t beat the smell of this cooking all day! Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do its magic. I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect because it becomes tender during slow cooking. If you want a leaner option, try using sirloin. However, avoid using tough cuts like brisket, as they may not cook well in a slow cooker.
Red Wine: A good dry wine, like Pinot Noir, enhances the dish’s flavor. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with beef broth, or use grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar to add some acidity.
Vegetables: Baby bella mushrooms and carrots add great texture and taste. You can easily swap in regular white mushrooms or even add in potatoes for heartiness. Fresh green beans or peas are nice additions too.
Herbs: Fresh thyme brings a lovely aroma, but feel free to use dried thyme if that’s what you have. A bit of rosemary can also work well for an extra layer of flavor!
How Do I Get the Beef to Brown Perfectly?
Getting a good sear on the beef is crucial for deep flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef; this helps to get that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—brown in batches to avoid steaming the beef.
- Add oil and let it heat first, then add the beef to ensure it sears nicely.
- If you notice sticking, let the beef cook longer; it will release from the pan once it’s well-browned.
Following these steps with patience will greatly enhance the flavor of your beef bourguignon! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Bourguignon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 ounces baby bella mushrooms, halved
- 4 large carrots, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups dry red wine (such as Pinot Noir or Burgundy)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time followed by either 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the crock pot. All you have to do is set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker infuse the flavors while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Beef:
Begin by seasoning the beef cubes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will add essential flavor to the meat.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, brown the beef cubes in batches, making sure to sear all sides for about 5 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef to your crock pot.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the baby bella mushrooms, sliced carrots, and chopped onion. Sauté for around 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add Garlic and Tomato Paste:
Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute while stirring frequently. This will help enhance the overall flavor profile!
5. Add Wine and Broth:
Pour in the red wine and beef broth, making sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Transfer the sautéed vegetable and wine mixture to the crock pot. Add the thyme and bay leaves, stirring everything together to ensure all the flavors are mixed well.
7. Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beef is ready when it’s tender and can be easily pulled apart with a fork.
8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid and whisk it with the tablespoon of flour until smooth. Stir this mixture back into the crock pot and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes.
9. Final Touches:
Once cooked, don’t forget to remove the bay leaves. Garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and flavor before serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Beef Bourguignon hot, ideally with some crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles. Enjoy the cozy and comforting flavors of this classic French dish!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Beef Bourguignon
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes, while beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness, you can substitute it with sirloin for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Red Wine?
If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute the red wine with extra beef broth or use a mixture of grape juice with a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity and depth of flavor.
Can I Prepare This a Day in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and place them in the crock pot the night before, then store it in the fridge. Just remember to remove it and let it sit for about 30 minutes before cooking, so it’s not too cold when you start.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little beef broth if the sauce thickens too much.
