Crockpot Beef Bourguignon simmering with vegetables and herbs in a rich sauce

Quick Crockpot Beef Bourguignon for Busy Nights

10 décembre 2025 par Chef Hanna Zest

This crockpot beef bourguignon is built for speed without skimping on comfort. Prep in 15 minutes, set the slow cooker, and let the flavors do the work while you handle other tasks. It keeps steps simple and uses common pantry ingredients for an easy weeknight win. If you like effortless slow-cooker dinners, try this alongside our Crockpot BBQ Meatballs for variety.

Why This Recipe Works

The method focuses on a quick sear, which locks in flavor fast, then long gentle cooking to turn chuck into melt-in-your-mouth beef. Using rendered turkey bacon adds smoky depth without extra fuss. Replacing wine with a splash of balsamic vinegar and extra beef broth keeps the rich, tangy profile while staying pantry-friendly. The crockpot’s low and slow environment breaks down connective tissue without drying the meat. Adding mushrooms in the last hour keeps them tender and flavorful rather than mushy. Minimal hands-on time makes this ideal for busy evenings and easy entertaining.

Flavor and Texture

Browned beef cubes deliver a caramelized crust that balances the soft braise inside. Turkey bacon and tomato paste contribute savory umami notes that deepen during slow cooking. Balsamic vinegar provides a subtle acidity that brightens the broth without overpowering it. Carrots and onions soften and sweeten as they cook, offering contrast to the rich meat. The mushrooms added at the end retain their shape and soak up the braising liquid for concentrated flavor.

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices turkey bacon, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/4 cups beef broth
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

In a skillet, cook the turkey bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the rendered turkey bacon fat, brown the beef cubes in batches. Remove and place in the crockpot.
In the same skillet, sauté the onion and carrots for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Transfer the sautéed onion, carrots, and garlic to the crockpot.
Add beef broth, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and the cooked turkey bacon. Stir to combine.
Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
In the last hour of cooking, add the mushrooms.
Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Trim the beef and dice vegetables the night before to cut morning prep to minutes. If you prefer deeper color, finish the sauce in a hot pan to reduce and concentrate it while the mushrooms simmer in the crockpot. Swap in pre-sliced mushrooms and pre-chopped mirepoix for even faster assembly. For a twist on texture, stir in a small pat of butter at the end for shine and silkiness. See a similar slow-cook crowd pleaser in our slow cooker beef brisket for additional inspiration.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool the stew to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to three days. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Leftovers taste even better after a day when flavors have had time to meld.

Short Closing Note

This version gives you the classic comfort of beef bourguignon with minimal hands-on time and pantry-friendly swaps. It’s perfect for busy cooks who want hearty, reliable dinners.

Conclusion

For a traditional slow cooker take on this classic, see Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon | The Recipe Critic (https://therecipecritic.com/slow-cooker-beef-bourguignon/).

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.