Slow-Cooker Beef Burgundy

by

Introduction

Slow-Cooker Beef Burgundy is a rich, hearty, and soul-warming classic that brings the elegance of French cuisine to your dinner table with minimal effort. Tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables and a mix of herbs, create a dish that’s deeply flavorful, velvety, and comforting. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but is effortlessly made, turning any dinner into a memorable experience.

I first made this dish when I craved something hearty yet simple—something that would simmer away all day while filling my kitchen with irresistible, mouth-watering aromas. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it allows the beef to absorb every bit of the garlic, carrots, onions, and herbs, transforming into a tender, succulent masterpiece. What I love most about Slow-Cooker Beef Burgundy is its versatility—you can serve it over crusty bread, alongside mashed potatoes, or with a simple green salad. It’s a classic French comfort food that feels fancy but remains simple enough to enjoy on a relaxed weekday night.

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Cozy evenings
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Special occasions
  • Lovers of rich, savory flavors

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Slow-Cooker Beef Burgundy will become a staple in your recipe collection:

  • Rich, Robust Flavor: The combination of burgundy wine, garlic, and herbs creates a deep, satisfying taste.
  • Tender, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef: Slow cooking ensures that the beef is incredibly tender and flavorful.
  • Earthy Mushrooms: The mushrooms add a delightful texture and absorb the rich sauce beautifully.
  • Effortless Cooking: Set your slow cooker and let it work its magic with minimal hands-on time.
  • Perfectly Balanced Sauce: A robust burgundy sauce that coats everything in velvety goodness.
  • Ideal for Any Season: Comforting in winter, but just as enjoyable all year round.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for entertaining or busy weekdays since it can cook while you’re away.
  • Customizable Seasonings: Adjust herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
  • Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with proteins, vitamins, and flavors from quality meat and vegetables.
  • Impressive Yet Simple: A dish that feels fancy but is easy to prepare with a slow cooker.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 8 hours
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 7 hours
  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

For the Beef Burgundy Base:

  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups burgundy or red wine
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

For the Vegetables:

  • 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups mushrooms, halved or quartered

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crusty bread for dipping

Ingredient Highlights

  • Beef Chuck: A rich cut that becomes incredibly tender with slow cooking.
  • Tomato Paste: Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of tanginess.
  • Fresh Thyme: Brings an earthy, aromatic touch to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef Burgundy Base:

  1. Coat the Beef: Toss beef cubes in flour, shaking off excess flour.
  2. Sear the Meat: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches for about 2 minutes per side. Transfer browned meat to the slow cooker.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add them to the slow cooker.

Add Wine and Sauce Ingredients:

  1. Pour in Liquids: Add beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the slow cooker. Stir everything together.

Add Vegetables:

  1. Add Carrots and Potatoes: Place the carrots and potatoes on top of the meat.
  2. Add Mushrooms: Scatter the mushrooms over everything.

Slow-Cook:

  1. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 7-8 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.

Thicken the Sauce (Optional):

  1. Make a Slurry: Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry. Stir it into the sauce about 30 minutes before serving to thicken it.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Add Final Touches: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top.
  2. Serve with Bread: Serve warm with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Slow-Cooker Beef Burgundy:

  • Classic Comfort Dinner: Serve with crusty bread and a green salad for a wholesome meal.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the beef and sauce over creamy mashed potatoes.
  • Over Rice: Serve the dish over steamed rice for an excellent texture contrast.
  • Pair with Crusty Baguette: For dipping into the rich, velvety sauce.
  • As a Holiday Feast: Elevates any holiday table with its impressive presentation.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: A rustic touch that complements the flavors of the dish.
  • Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds a fresh, bright finishing touch.
  • On a Platter for Family Style Dining: Serve everything in a large serving platter for communal dining.
  • With a Side of Greens: A simple green salad adds balance and freshness.

Additional Tips

  • Searing the Meat: Sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This enhances the flavor and adds a richer, deeper taste to your dish.
  • Quality Meat: Use good-quality beef chuck roast. It’s perfect for slow cooking and will break down beautifully, becoming tender and flavorful.
  • Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stir well, and add it to the slow cooker about 20 minutes before serving.
  • Layering Ingredients: Start by adding your root vegetables (like carrots and onions) first, followed by the beef, and then pour the broth over everything. This layering ensures even cooking.
  • Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. They complement the flavors in a subtle and sophisticated way.
  • Garlic Touch: Add minced garlic cloves for a robust, savory undertone. Garlic elevates the dish’s flavor complexity.
  • Deglazing the Pan: After searing meat, deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth to scrape up any browned bits. Then, pour this into your slow cooker for an extra flavor boost.
  • Taste Adjustment: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper.
  • Resting Time: Let the beef burgundy rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicier, more balanced dish.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetable-Packed Beef Burgundy: Add bell peppers, celery, and green beans for extra nutrition.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
  • Herb Variations: Use rosemary or oregano alongside thyme for different herbal notes.
  • Creamy Beef Burgundy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute mushrooms and jackfruit for a plant-based version.
  • Mini Beef Burgundy Sliders: Serve in slider buns with a touch of horseradish cream.
  • Beef Burgundy Pasta: Toss cooked pasta with beef, sauce, and vegetables for a pasta variation.
  • Crockpot Shortcut: Use pre-cooked beef chunks and broth to save time.

Special Equipment

  • Slow Cooker: The key tool for making this dish tender and flavorful with minimal effort.
  • Searing Skillet: Ideal for browning meat before slow cooking.
  • Slotted Spoon: Perfect for serving meat and separating it from the sauce.
  • Meat Thermometer: Ensure beef is tender by checking the internal temperature.
  • Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring ingredients and ensuring even distribution.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen beef instead of fresh?
    Yes, but thaw the beef completely before browning it for best results.
  2. How long can leftovers last in the fridge?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  3. Can I freeze this dish?
    Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
  4. What if I don’t have burgundy wine?
    Substitute with any dry red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir.
  5. How do I make the sauce thicker?
    Use a flour or cornstarch slurry to achieve a thicker sauce consistency.
  6. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
    Absolutely! Add root vegetables, bell peppers, or leafy greens for variety.
  7. Can I use a different cut of beef?
    Yes, sirloin or brisket are good alternatives for a beefy taste and texture.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the slow cooker or a stovetop skillet over low heat to retain flavors.
  9. Can I make this dish without tomato paste?
    Yes, omit it and use a bit more beef broth for liquid balance.

Conclusion

Slow-cooker beef Burgundy is a rich, decadent twist on a classic French dish, bringing together tender beef, earthy mushrooms. This comforting and hearty meal offers deep, savory flavors that are perfect for cozy dinners, holiday feasts, or when you simply want a dish that feels like a warm, loving hug. Let your slow cooker do the work, and you’ll be rewarded with a delightful, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.

This recipe is adaptable to your taste and pantry. You can adjust the seasonings with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, add garlic for a deeper flavor, or toss in pearl onions and carrots for a more rustic touch. The slow-cooking method ensures that the meat remains incredibly tender, and broth create a rich, complex sauce that elevates every bite.

I’d love to see your slow-cooker beef Burgundy masterpiece! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’m eager to see how you put your own spin on this classic dish. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share any special tweaks or additions that made your version extra special!

Leave a Comment