Easy Autumn Dinner Party

Using a slow cooker and one of our braising sauces makes hosting a cozy autumnal dinner party a breeze. Start off by serving wine and a simple selection of artisanal cheeses arranged prettily on a platter with crackers or slices of baguette. Beef bourguignonne, usually a major undertaking, requires little more than browning the bacon and beef before the dish develops rich, savory flavor during its five hours in a slow cooker. An elegant salad is easily assembled using a mandoline to slice the apples and pears, and our pumpkin quick bread is a simple yet sweet ending to the evening, especially when dusted with confectioners’ sugar or a dollop of whipped cream