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Best Crockpot Beef Bourguignon Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Best Crockpot Beef Bourguignon Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs of beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized chunks; 1 1/2 cups dry red wine, such as Pinot Noir; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth or stock; 8 slices of crispy bacon, diced; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 cups frozen cocktail onions; 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1–2 tablespoons beef bouillon base; 1 dried bay leaf; 3 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 lb small mushrooms, halved; 1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 cup pearl or white wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons butter, softened; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Kathleen Looney August 7, 2025

Total Time: 8 hrs 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the beauty that is Crockpot Beef Bourguignon, let’s set the stage. As a dish rooted in French culinary tradition, it deserves a superb companion. Think creamy mashed potatoes or a good crusty baguette for soaking up that rich sauce.

If you want a refresh, a simple side salad with mixed greens and a balsamic vinaigrette works wonders. You might even serve it alongside blanched green beans or sautéed asparagus to add freshness and color.

Pairing this hearty dish with a nice red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, enhances the experience even further. With these sides in mind, let’s unravel the tapestry of flavors that makes Beef Bourguignon a household favorite.

So, let’s chat about something that warms not just the belly, but the soul: Beef Bourguignon. Imagine this: a chilly evening, the scent of rich beef simmering in red wine wafting through your home.

This isn’t just any recipe; it’s the kind of comfort food that encourages you to gather around the table and share stories. As someone who’s always on the lookout for recipes that please a crowd while being straightforward to prepare, this recipe checks all the boxes for me.

Having experimented with various cuts of beef, vegetables, and wines over the years, I’ve crafted this Crockpot version to be easy, flavorful, and ultimately, forgiving.

You can go about your day knowing dinner is bubbling away, ready to impress anyone lucky enough to fill a bowl. Let’s dig deeper into why this recipe is so exceptional.

The Magic of Ingredients

I’ve always believed that good cooking starts with the right ingredients. This recipe uses a bit of everything that works harmoniously together.

Beef Chuck Roast: This cut shines when slow-cooked, transforming into melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Dry Red Wine: I like to use a Pinot Noir. It adds depth without overpowering.
Low-sodium Beef Broth: A solid base for flavor, making sure you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Bacon: Who doesn’t love bacon? It adds a smokiness that elevates the entire dish.
Fresh Thyme: Earthy and fragrant, thyme brings a subtle note that’s just enough.
Mushrooms and Onions: They soak in the juices, adding that umami punch.
Carrots and Potatoes: These hearty additions make the dish satisfying and nourishing.
Smoked Paprika and Tomato Paste: Just a hint of spice and sweetness ties it all together.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key in achieving a robust flavor profile. Each component contributes to the finished dish, making it a highlight of any dinner table.

Ingredients List

BEEF BOURGUIGNON

3 lbs of beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized chunks

1 1/2 cups dry red wine, such as Pinot Noir

4 cups low-sodium beef broth or stock

8 slices of crispy bacon, diced

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 cups frozen cocktail onions

2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

3 tablespoons tomato paste

1 – 2 tablespoons beef bouillon base

1 dried bay leaf

3 sprigs fresh thyme

1 lb small mushrooms, halved

1 lb baby potatoes, halved or quartered

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 cup pearl or white wine vinegar

THICKENING AGENT

2 tablespoons butter, softened

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

How to Make the Best Crockpot Beef Bourguignon

Let’s get into the step-by-step process of crafting this masterpiece. Grab your Crockpot, and let’s roll up our sleeves!

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by gathering everything. Chop the beef into manageable chunks, roughly 1-2 inches. Dicing the bacon into small pieces makes it a bit crispy while it cooks.

Peel and chop the carrots and quarter the baby potatoes. This might sound tedious, but it’s worth it. The preparation sets the stage for the melding of flavors.

Step 2: Searing the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the diced bacon. Cook until it’s crispy, stirring occasionally. It should take about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Once the bacon is done, don’t rush to clean the pan! Leave those delicious drippings behind. Yes, I’m talking about that golden goodness; it’s pure flavor magic.

Transfer the crispy bacon to your Crockpot, but keep the drippings in the skillet. Toss in the beef chunks. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.

Sear the beef in that same skillet, about 3-4 minutes per side. You want that golden-brown crust to develop—the kind that makes the taste buds dance.

Step 3: Building the Flavor Base

Once the beef is browned, it’s time to get back to your trusty Crockpot. Place those beautifully seared beef chunks in with the bacon. Add the frozen cocktail onions, carrots, garlic, tomato paste, and halved mushrooms.

Now let’s incorporate the wine. Pour in the dry red wine, beef broth, and also add the bouillon base, bay leaf, and thyme. Oh, and don’t forget that smoked paprika; it adds a warm and earthy dimension.

Step 4: Whisking Up the Thickening Agent

In a small bowl, blend the softened butter with the flour. This will create a paste, which will help thicken the stew as it cooks. stirring well. Add this mixture to the Crockpot, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Setting It All to Cook

Now it’s time to cover. Set your Crockpot on low for 8 hours or high for around 4 hours. The longer, the better. While you go about your day, that Crockpot will work its magic.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

When your 8-hour timer goes off (or 4 hours, if you’re on the high setting), it’s time to get excited. Carefully remove the bay leaf and fresh thyme sprigs. For added thickness, if needed, you can whisk in a little more flour or cornstarch dissolved in water.

Serve bowls of this comforting dish with a luscious sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like.

How to make Best Crockpot Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Recipe Notes

Let’s break down some components that make this dish shine.

Beef Chuck Roast: Ideal for slow cooking, this cut becomes fork-tender. Other cuts, like brisket or lamb, offer great alternatives.
Red Wine: Pinot Noir adds a touch of brightness; a bold Cabernet adds depth for those who prefer a stronger flavor.
Bacon: The crispy bits infuse the sauce with a smokey base. Feel free to opt for turkey bacon if you’re looking for a leaner version.
Vegetables: You can add more vegetables like parsnips or celery if you’re feeling adventurous.
Thickeners: The combination of butter and flour brings everything together. If you’re avoiding gluten, cornstarch or arrowroot powder works just as well.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own. Here are some ideas:

Herbs: Instead of thyme, you can use rosemary or sage.
Root Vegetables: Add turnips or sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Mushroom Types: Use cremini or portobello mushrooms for a richer taste.
Gluten-Free: Swap out flour for a gluten-free substitute or thicken with cornstarch instead.

Nutrition Information

Best Crockpot Beef Bourguignon Recipe Nutrition Facts

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Bourguignon is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl on a chilly evening. This dish, with its deep roots in French cuisine, keeps me coming back for more.

It’s not just easy to make; it’s a culinary experience worth sharing. With each bite, you taste the time and ingredients coming together, creating something truly delightful.

Whether you serve it with a warm loaf of bread, over creamy mashed potatoes, or simply enjoy it on its own, it invites everyone to slow down and savor the moment.

So next time you need comfort food or want to impress guests with minimal fuss, turn to this recipe. You won’t regret it. Happy cooking!

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Best Crockpot Beef Bourguignon Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: French Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 8 hrs Total Time 8 hrs 30 mins

Calories: 751

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

So, let’s chat about something that warms not just the belly, but the soul: Beef Bourguignon. Imagine this: a chilly evening, the scent of rich beef simmering in red wine wafting through your home.