Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon: A Cozy Culinary Escape
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 2.5 to 3 lbs Stewing Beef (Cuts like beef chuck or short rib); 2 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste); 2 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground recommended); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Substitute with olive oil if preferred); 8 oz Cured Pork/Bacon (Pancetta is a great alternative); 4 sprigs Thyme (Fresh or dried); 3 Bay Leaves (Remove before serving); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced or whole); 10 Pearl Onions (Shallots or chopped onions can substitute); 4-5 medium Carrots (Can be omitted if not preferred); 2 cups Red Wine (Use a good-quality dry red); 2 tbsp Brandy (Optional); 2 cups Beef Broth (Homemade or low-sodium); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Recommended for flavor); ¼ cup Flour (Cornstarch can be gluten-free alternative); 1 lb Cremini Mushrooms (Button mushrooms are a fine substitute); Parsley (For garnish, optional)

The air was thick with the rich aroma of red wine simmering on the stove, instantly transporting me to a cozy bistro tucked away in the heart of Burgundy. Nothing beats the sensation of indulging in my Classic Beef Bourguignon, a dish that marries succulent beef and earthy vegetables in a slow-cooked embrace of flavor. This recipe not only brings the warmth of French cuisine into your home, but it also offers one of those rare perks: minimal prep for maximum comfort. Perfect for laid-back weekends, its beauty lies in patience—slowly coaxing tenderness into the beef while creating a luxurious gravy. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and savor this culinary experience?

Why is Beef Bourguignon a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This Classic Beef Bourguignon wraps you in a hug of flavors, making it an ideal dish for chilly evenings.

Unforgettable Aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing scent of red wine and herbs, drawing everyone in.

Slow-Cooked Perfection: The magic happens during slow cooking, allowing the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Minimal Effort: With just a little prep, the oven does the work, making it perfect for busy home chefs.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is sure to impress family and friends—ideal for your next gathering or dinner party!

Endless Variations: Feel free to experiment with different veggies or wines, personalizing the dish to your favorite tastes. For a side that’s equally loved, check out my creamy mashed potatoes.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

For the Stew
• Stewing Beef (2.5 to 3 lbs) – Choose cuts like beef chuck or short rib for a rich flavor and tender texture during slow cooking.
• Salt (2 tsp) – A fundamental seasoning that enhances all the other flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Black Pepper (2 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth; freshly ground will offer the best flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Ideal for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables; substitute with olive oil if preferred.
• Cured Pork/Bacon (8 oz) – Imparts a smoky richness to the stew; pancetta is a great alternative if you want something different.
• Thyme (4 sprigs) – Provides an aromatic kick; fresh or dried thyme will work beautifully.
• Bay Leaves (3) – Infuse a warm, earthy essence into the dish; be sure to remove them before serving.
• Garlic (3 cloves) – Elevates flavor complexity with its aromatic profile; you can mince or keep them whole depending on your preference.
• Pearl Onions (10) – Sweet and tender, these enhance the stew’s texture; shallots or chopped onions can be great substitutes.
• Carrots (4-5 medium) – Contribute a hint of sweetness and vibrant color; can be omitted if not favored, but they add depth.
• Red Wine (2 cups) – The star of the dish that creates a luscious gravy; opt for a good-quality dry red, like Burgundy.
• Brandy (2 tbsp, optional) – A splash for extra depth; if you’d like to keep it simple, you can skip this.
• Beef Broth (2 cups) – Provides the necessary liquid for braising the beef; use homemade or low-sodium for optimal taste.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Adds umami and helps thicken the sauce; it’s recommended, but you can skip it if needed.
• Flour (¼ cup) – Essential for thickening the sauce; cornstarch can serve as a gluten-free alternative.
• Cremini Mushrooms (1 lb) – Bring an earthy flavor to the dish; if unavailable, regular button mushrooms work just fine.
• Parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds a fresh burst of color when serving, perfect for presentation.

This selection of Classic Beef Bourguignon ingredients will not only delight your taste buds but also fill your home with inviting aromas, setting the perfect mood for a comforting meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Prepare Beef
Begin by patting the stewing beef dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and black pepper. Allow the meat to rest at room temperature for about 2 hours; this helps ensure it cooks evenly. As you wait, enjoy the anticipation of the rich flavors your Classic Beef Bourguignon will soon bring.

Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a large Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and sauté until it becomes crispy, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the flavorful fat in the pot. This fat will lend richness to the stew, making your Classic Beef Bourguignon irresistible.

Step 3: Brown Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and brown the seasoned beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear each side for about 3 minutes until deeply golden. Transfer the browned beef to a plate as you work through all the meat. This crucial step enhances the flavor base of your Classic Beef Bourguignon through the Maillard reaction.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, reduce the heat slightly and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the garlic, carrots, pearl onions, thyme, and bay leaves. Sauté the mixture for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are glistening. The delightful aromas of sautéed vegetables will heighten your anticipation for the simmering stew.

Step 5: Combine & Simmer
Return the browned beef and cooked bacon to the pot, mixing in the tomato paste and flour until everything is well combined. Pour in 2 cups of red wine and 2 cups of beef broth, stirring gently until the meat is barely covered. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 1.5 hours. The flavors will meld beautifully during this slow-cooking phase.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms
While the stew is cooking, sauté the cremini mushrooms in a separate pan over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Once the initial cooking time is up, carefully stir these mushrooms into the Dutch oven with the beef. Cover the pot again and return it to the oven for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to infuse their earthy flavor into the Classic Beef Bourguignon.

Step 7: Final Adjustments
Once your stew is complete, remove it from the oven and give it a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as needed. Let the Classic Beef Bourguignon sit for 15 minutes before serving; this resting period enhances the flavors even more, making each bite a comforting delight.

Helpful Tricks for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Batch Browning: Avoid overcrowding the pot when browning beef. Sear in batches to prevent steaming, ensuring your Classic Beef Bourguignon has that rich, caramelized flavor.
Wine Choice Matters: Use a good-quality dry red wine, like Burgundy, as it significantly impacts the sauce’s flavor. Make sure it’s something you enjoy drinking!
Patience is Key: Don’t rush the slow-cooking process; allow the beef to cook low and slow, transforming tough cuts into tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces.
Use Residual Flavors: After sautéing vegetables, be sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot before simmering. These enhance the overall taste of your stew.
Flavor Rest: Let the stew rest after cooking for at least 15 minutes (or overnight) before serving. This resting period allows the flavors of the Classic Beef Bourguignon to deepen and develop.

Storage Tips for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Fridge: Store cooled Classic Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This delicious stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, allowing a little space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to regain consistency.
Make-Ahead: This dish only gets better over time, so consider making it a day ahead. The flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your Classic Beef Bourguignon experience the next day!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Beef Bourguignon options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can chop the vegetables (like carrots, pearl onions, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the beef can be seasoned and browned a day ahead; just refrigerate it after cooking and bring it back to room temperature before continuing with the recipe. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, combine the prepped components and bake as directed. This not only saves you time but also ensures that the beef remains tender and flavorful, just as delicious as a freshly made batch!

Classic Beef Bourguignon Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own while enjoying the hearty flavors of Classic Beef Bourguignon.

Vegetarian Version:
Substitute the beef with hearty mushrooms and eggplant for a delicious plant-based dish that still captures the stew’s essence. You won’t miss the meat with these rich flavors!
Gluten-Free:
Replace flour with cornstarch for thickening without gluten; simply mix it with a bit of cold broth before adding. Enjoy this comforting dish without worry!
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the simmering stage to infuse a gentle heat; it brings a captivating twist to the classic flavor palette.
Wine Varieties:
Swap Burgundy for a robust Merlot or a fruity Pinot Noir to see how different wines can subtly shift the profile of your stew. Why not explore local options in your favorite liquor store?
Extra Veggies:
Toss in some parsnips or turnips along with the carrots for added sweetness and texture. Each addition creates unique layers of flavor, enhancing your experience!
Smoky Flavor:
Use smoked paprika when sautéing vegetables to introduce a deep, smoky note. It’s a simple trick that can elevate your dish to new heights.
Herb Mix:
Experiment with fresh rosemary or oregano alongside thyme for a delightful twist on the traditional herb palette. These additions can brighten the flavor and complexity.

For even more ideas and delightful dishes to accompany your stew, don’t miss out on my recipe for creamy polenta or a zesty green salad that pairs perfectly with the richness of this comfort food classic!

What to Serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that enhance the rich flavors of your stew and create a delightful, memorable meal.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture complements the hearty stew, soaking up the luscious sauce beautifully. They provide a comforting canvas for the intense flavors of the bourguignon.
Crusty French Baguette: Nothing says French bistro like a warm loaf. This bread is perfect for sopping up every last drop of the rich gravy, making each bite a joy.
Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans dressed in garlic butter add a fresh, vibrant element. Their bright color and crunch balance the rich flavors of the stew effortlessly.
Potato Gratin Dauphinois: This creamy, cheesy potato dish elevates the meal, bringing in layers of flavor while enhancing the comforting theme of your culinary experience.
Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and turnips creates a sweet contrast to the savory stew. The caramelization from roasting intensifies their flavors, making them a delightful accompaniment.
Bordeaux or Merlot: A glass of good-quality red wine brings harmony to the meal. Its deep flavors mirror the rich essence of the beef bourguignon, enhancing your dining pleasure.
Chocolate Fondant: Conclude your evening with a warm chocolate fondant. The richness of the dessert creates a harmonious ending after the savory bourguignon, offering a luscious contrast.
Crispy Buttery Flaky Pastry: Whether served as a side or as part of a dessert, the flaky texture adds an element of indulgence. It’s a delightful complement that ties in perfectly with the warm, homey feeling of your meal.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best beef for Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, select well-marbled cuts like beef chuck, short rib, or outside round. Look for pieces that have a good amount of fat running through them, as it will break down during the long cooking process, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Beef Bourguignon?
You can store cooled Classic Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve the freshness and flavors.

Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! Portion the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers. Ensure you leave a little space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if needed for consistency.

What should I do if my Beef Bourguignon turns out too salty?
If your Classic Beef Bourguignon is too salty, don’t worry! You can add a peeled, whole potato to the stew during reheating—let it cook for about 20 minutes. The potato will absorb some of the saltiness. Another option is to add more broth or water; just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning afterward.

Is this dish suitable for people with allergies?
Yes! Although the Classic Beef Bourguignon contains gluten from flour and potentially allergens like bacon, you can easily adapt it. Substitute flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free option and omit the bacon if needing a pork-free version. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re serving guests with specific food allergies.

Can I make Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavors even more, as they meld overnight in the fridge. Store it once cooled, and simply reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve—your patience will truly pay off in the depth of flavor in your Classic Beef Bourguignon!