Creating Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is straightforward and stress-free. Follow these steps to ensure success:

1. Sear the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

2. Brown the Beef: In the same skillet, add the beef chunks in batches, searing on all sides until browned. Transfer browned beef to a slow cooker.

3. Deglaze the Pan: Pour a bit of red wine into the hot skillet, scraping up any browned bits. This adds flavor to your dish. Pour the deglazed wine over the beef in the slow cooker.

4. Prepare the Vegetables: Add the cooked bacon, carrots, onion, garlic, and mushrooms into the slow cooker.

5. Add Liquid Ingredients: Stir in the remaining red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. Mix well.

6. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix flour with a few tablespoons of liquid from the slow cooker until smooth. Stir this mixture back into the cooker to thicken the sauce.

7. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste and mix everything well.

8. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.

9. Final Touches: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Discard bay leaves and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an added touch of color.

10. Serve: Enjoy your hearty meal!