Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon: A Comforting French Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 6 ounces Bacon (Choose smoked for an extra kick.); 3 pounds Beef Chuck (Well-marbled for richness.); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For base and sautéing.); 1 large Yellow Onion (Chopped.); 3 medium Carrots (Peeled and sliced.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free.); 750 milliliters Burgundy Wine (Essential for flavor.); 4 cups Beef Stock (Homemade enhances flavor.); 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon (Can be omitted if unavailable.); 4 sprigs Thyme (Fresh preferred.); 2 leaves Bay Leaves; 10 ounces Frozen Pearl Onions (Fresh can be used as an alternative.); 8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms (Sliced.); to taste Kosher Salt (For seasoning.); to taste Freshly Cracked Pepper (For seasoning.); 2 tablespoons Additional Butter for Sautéing (For browning mushrooms and pearl onions.); 4 servings Mashed Potatoes (Pairs beautifully with the sauce.); 1 loaf Crusty Bread (Perfect for soaking up the stew.); 1 bowl Fresh Garden Salad (A light complement.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon filled the air and instantly transported me to a quaint bistro in the heart of Burgundy. This Classic Beef Bourguignon isn’t just any stew; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that transforms any gathering into a celebration. With its tender beef simmering in a rich, velvety wine sauce, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at holiday feasts. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—it’s a luscious one-pot meal that brings together robust flavors and heartiness without fuss. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an accessible luxury for everyone. Curious about how to create this delightful French classic in your own kitchen? Let’s get cooking!

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Why is Beef Bourguignon so special?

Unforgettable flavor: This dish features a luxurious blend of tender beef, aromatic herbs, and a rich wine sauce, delivering a heartfelt experience with every bite.

One-pot convenience: Easily prepare an impressive meal without the hassle. After a bit of prep, let your Dutch oven do the work, giving you time to relax with family or friends.

Perfect for sharing: With its hearty portions, this beef stew is ideal for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied and delighted.

Versatile variations: Not feeling like beef? Try a vegetarian twist by swapping out meat for lentils and mushrooms while keeping the same depth of flavor.

Check out our delicious options like Cheesy Beef Wraps or Oven Baked Beef for even more culinary inspiration!

Classic Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

• Dive into the heart of this comforting dish!

For the Stew
• Bacon – Adds depth of flavor; choose smoked for an extra kick.
• Beef Chuck – The star element; its marbling enhances the richness in long cooking.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides a creamy base that helps thicken the sauce.
• Yellow Onion – Sweetness and aroma come together in this essential ingredient.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness; standard orange carrots work best for texture.
• Garlic – A burst of flavor; fresh cloves elevate the dish.
• Tomato Paste – Deepens the sauce’s richness and complexity.
• All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the stew; substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Burgundy Wine – Essential for infusing bold flavors; swap with a bold red if needed.
• Beef Stock – Moisture and depth; homemade stock enhances the flavor further.
• Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon – Boosts beef flavor; can be omitted if unavailable.
• Thyme & Bay Leaves – Essential herbs for that aromatic touch; fresh is preferable.
• Frozen Pearl Onions – Sweet bites of flavor; fresh onions can be used as an alternative.
• Cremini Mushrooms – Earthiness adds layers of taste; substitute with shiitake or button mushrooms.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Cracked Pepper – Vital for seasoning; sprinkle generously throughout.

For Sautéing
• Additional Butter for Sautéing – Use for browning mushrooms and pearl onions until caramelized.

Optional Serving Accompaniments
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy base that pairs beautifully with the luxurious sauce.
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up every drop of that delectable stew.
• Fresh Garden Salad – A light and refreshing complement to the hearty flavors of the dish.

Whip up this Classic Beef Bourguignon and treat your loved ones to a meal that embodies comfort and elegance!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Classic Beef Bourguignon will cook evenly and at the right temperature, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a sturdy Dutch oven, to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Render the Bacon
In your Dutch oven, set over medium-low heat, add diced bacon and render it until it’s beautifully browned and crisp, taking about 5–7 minutes. The bacon will release its rich flavors, creating a savory base for your stew. Once done, remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Step 3: Sear the Beef
Next, raise the heat to medium and add beef chuck cubes to the Dutch oven in a single layer, allowing them to sear without overcrowding the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 6–8 minutes until a deep caramel color forms. This step locks in the juices, enhancing the overall flavor of your beef bourguignon. Remove the beef and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter and add chopped yellow onions and carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and develop flavor. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, bringing the base of your Classic Beef Bourguignon to life with layers of sweetness.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste and Flour
Introduce a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste to the pot and cook for about 2 minutes until it darkens slightly, deepening the flavor. Sprinkle in all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s well combined and incorporates into the mixture, which will later help thicken the sauce.

Step 6: Deglaze with Wine
It’s time to deglaze! Pour in the Burgundy wine while scraping the bottom of the pot to lift the flavorful browned bits. Bring it to a simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the sauce to reduce slightly. This step enriches your Classic Beef Bourguignon with bold flavor.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared beef and crispy bacon to the pot. Pour in beef stock and add a spoonful of Better than Bouillon beef bouillon, if using. Toss in fresh thyme and bay leaves, and stir to combine. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow it to braise for 2.5 hours, filling your kitchen with comforting aromas.

Step 8: Prepare Mushrooms and Onions
While the meat is cooking, in a small pan, sauté frozen pearl onions and cremini mushrooms in the remaining butter over medium heat until browned, about 6-8 minutes. This step adds additional texture and richness to your stew. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for extra flavor.

Step 9: Combine and Finish Cooking
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the pot from the oven. Stir in the sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions into the beef mixture. Cover the pot again and return it to the oven for an additional 45-60 minutes, cooking until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors are harmonious in your Classic Beef Bourguignon.

Step 10: Rest the Stew
Once your beef bourguignon has finished cooking, let it rest covered for 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken a bit more, creating the luscious, comforting dish that will surely delight everyone at the table.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Beef Bourguignon meal prep tips will save you time on busy weeknights while still delivering that rich, comforting flavor! You can prep the beef and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance—simply sear the beef, cook the bacon, and sauté the vegetables as per the recipe, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to finish cooking, just combine the ingredients with the wine and stock, and let it simmer in the oven as directed. The result will be a satisfying dish that’s just as delicious, saving you precious time without compromising quality!

What to Serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Create a complete dining experience that beautifully complements the rich flavors of this beloved French stew.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture offers a perfect canvas to soak up the luscious wine sauce, enhancing every bite.
Crusty French Baguette: Freshly baked bread is ideal for mopping up the heartwarming stew, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, balancing richness with vibrant flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites bring an earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the deep flavors of the bourguignon.
Garlic Bread: Golden, garlicky slices provide a delightful crunch, making it a perfect vehicle for that incredible sauce.

Pair this classic comfort food with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon to elevate your dining experience further, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully on your palate.

How to Store and Freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-6 days. Allow the stew to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain optimum freshness.

Freezer: Freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag. Ensure to portion it for easy thawing and reheating later.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low-medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water as needed to return moisture and flavor to the stew.

Thawing: For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even warming and maintain the dish’s delicious taste and texture.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Classic Beef Bourguignon! Each twist can elevate this comforting dish in delightful ways.

Beef Cuts: Switch beef chuck for brisket or a blend of beef and pork for unique flavors.
Potatoes: Toss in baby potatoes halfway through cooking for a heartier stew experience. The little nuggets soak up the rich sauce beautifully!
Vegetarian Option: Swap out meat for mushrooms and lentils, and use vegetable broth to maintain that deep flavor without the meat. Perfect for those meat-free days!
Extra Herbs: Add fresh parsley or rosemary for a pop of freshness. These bright flavors cut through the richness and add another layer of depth.
Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some spicy flair. A little heat can transform the comforting notes into something truly exciting!
Wine Substitution: If you can’t find Burgundy, any bold red wine works wonderfully, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. They’ll lend a different, yet delicious character to the dish.
Alternative Mushrooms: Mix up the mushrooms! Consider a medley including shiitake or portobello for wider earthy flavors.

Don’t forget to try pairing your Bourguignon with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce. If you’re looking for even more delicious meal ideas, check out our easy Beef Chow Mein or try whipping up some Ground Beef Tostadas for a savory twist!

Expert Tips for Classic Beef Bourguignon

• Choose Quality Meat: Always opt for well-marbled beef chuck, as the fat renders during cooking, creating an incredibly tender texture in your Classic Beef Bourguignon.

• Proper Browning: Don’t rush the searing process. Sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, ensuring a rich, caramel crust that enhances flavors.

• Use High-Quality Wine: Select a Burgundy or bold red wine that you would enjoy drinking. Heartiness in the wine influences the richness of your stew’s sauce.

• Mind the Lid: Make sure the Dutch oven has a tight-fitting lid; this prevents evaporation and keeps your bourguignon moist and flavorful.

• Rest for Maximum Flavor: Allow the stew to rest covered for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors develop and ensures a more cohesive dish.

• Don’t Skip the Mushrooms: Adding sautéed cremini mushrooms and pearl onions gives a delightful texture and pops of sweetness, balancing the rich beef flavors beautifully.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

What type of beef should I use for Classic Beef Bourguignon?
For the best results, use well-marbled beef chuck, as its fat content renders beautifully during the long cooking process, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. You can also substitute brisket for a different taste, but beef chuck remains the classic choice.

How should I store leftover Classic Beef Bourguignon?
To keep your Classic Beef Bourguignon fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-6 days. Make sure the stew cools completely before sealing it in the container to maintain its delightful flavors and texture.

Can I freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! You can freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the stew to cool, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Remember to label them with the date for easy organization!

What if my stew is too thin?
If you find your stew is a bit too thin after cooking, don’t worry! You can thicken it by making a cornstarch slurry: mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the simmering stew until it reaches your desired thickness. Allow it to cook for a few minutes while stirring to incorporate the starch fully.

Is Classic Beef Bourguignon safe for my pet?
While the stew is delicious for human consumption, it’s not suitable for pets, particularly because of the wine and pearl onions, which can be harmful to dogs. Always keep pet safety in mind and stick to pet-friendly treats when sharing the love from your kitchen!

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To adapt Classic Beef Bourguignon to be gluten-free, simply omit the all-purpose flour. Instead, use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the stew. Also, ensure your beef bouillon and wine are gluten-free. Enjoy your hearty meal without worry!