Step 5: Assemble the Slow Cooker

Add the following ingredients to the slow cooker:

• Seared beef
• Cooked bacon
• Sautéed onions and garlic
• Carrots
• Mushrooms
• Pearl onions

Then pour in:

• Remaining red wine
• Beef broth
• Tomato paste

Stir gently to combine.

Finally, add the thyme and bay leaf.

Step 6: Slow Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker and cook:

• Low: 7–8 hours
• High: 4–5 hours

During this time, the beef becomes incredibly tender while the sauce slowly develops a deep, rich flavor.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, prepare a quick thickener.

In a small bowl, mash together:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon flour

This mixture is called a beurre manié, a classic French thickening method.

Stir it into the stew and let it cook for the remaining time. The sauce will become silky and slightly thicker.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Before serving, remove the bay leaf and give the stew a gentle stir.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This comforting stew pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the rich sauce.

Popular serving options include:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Crusty rustic bread
• Steamed rice

The stew is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but these sides make it even more satisfying.

Tips for the Best Flavor

Choose the right cut of beef:
Beef chuck works best because it becomes extremely tender during slow cooking.

Don’t skip browning the meat:
This step adds layers of flavor that make the stew taste richer.

Use a good red wine:
A dry wine such as Pinot Noir or Merlot works beautifully in this dish.

Let it rest:
Like many stews, the flavors become even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker beef bourguignon proves that classic comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a bit of preparation and the help of your slow cooker, you can enjoy a luxurious French-style stew that tastes like it simmered all day on a rustic farmhouse stove.

Tender beef, earthy vegetables, smoky bacon, and a velvety wine sauce come together to create a dish that’s deeply comforting, wonderfully rich, and perfect for cozy evenings at home.