Classic French Beef Bourguignon

Name: Classic French Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (preferably Burgundy); 2 cups beef broth; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, and parsley); 8 oz mushrooms, quartered; 4 oz bacon, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A rich and hearty stew that captures the essence of French cuisine.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:50:56.454Z

This Classic French Beef Bourguignon recipe is a staple of French cooking, known for its deep flavors and tender meat. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavors that develop over hours of slow cooking
Tender beef that melts in your mouth
Perfectly paired with crusty bread or mashed potatoes

      

The Essence of French Cuisine

French cuisine is celebrated for its depth of flavor, elegance, and technique, and Beef Bourguignon is a quintessential example. This dish showcases the beauty of slow cooking, allowing the flavors of red wine, beef, and aromatic vegetables to meld beautifully over hours. Each ingredient plays a vital role, contributing to the overall richness and complexity of the stew. It's a perfect representation of how simple ingredients, when treated with care, can transform into an extraordinary meal.

Originating from the Burgundy region, this dish not only highlights the local beef and wine but also reflects the heart of French culinary tradition. The use of a bouquet garni—a bundle of herbs—adds a fragrant touch that elevates the dish. Cooking Beef Bourguignon is not merely about following a recipe; it's about engaging with the process and embracing the artistry of French cooking.

Perfect Pairings

Beef Bourguignon is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. One of the most popular accompaniments is crusty French bread, which is perfect for soaking up the rich, savory sauce. The texture of the bread complements the tender beef, creating a satisfying dining experience.

Another fantastic pairing is creamy mashed potatoes, which provide a smooth contrast to the hearty stew. The buttery richness of the potatoes enhances the flavors of the beef and the wine, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. For a lighter option, consider serving it over egg noodles or with a side of sautéed greens to balance the richness.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, selecting the right cut of beef is essential. Beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and connective tissue, which break down during the slow cooking process, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Avoid using lean cuts, as they can become tough and dry when cooked for extended periods.

Don’t rush the browning of the beef and bacon; this step is crucial for developing deep flavors. Make sure to brown in batches if necessary, allowing each piece to sear properly. Also, remember to use a good quality red wine, as it significantly impacts the dish's overall flavor. A wine that you enjoy drinking will enhance your stew, making it even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 bottle (750ml) red wine (preferably Burgundy)
2 cups beef broth
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, and parsley)
8 oz mushrooms, quartered
4 oz bacon, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Make sure to prepare all ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking experience.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, adding more oil as necessary. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Bacon and Vegetables

Add diced bacon to the pot and cook until crispy. Remove bacon and add onions and carrots. Sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Sprinkle flour over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.

Add Wine and Broth

Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the bouquet garni and bring to a simmer.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Finish with Mushrooms

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the mushrooms and reserved bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Remove bouquet garni before serving. Enjoy hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.

Storage and Reheating

Beef Bourguignon is an excellent dish to make ahead of time, as the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to label your containers with the date for easy reference.

When reheating, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If it seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This dish is just as delicious, if not better, the next day!

Variations to Try

While the classic recipe is beloved, there are several variations you can explore to put your own twist on Beef Bourguignon. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or cognac during the cooking process. Alternatively, you can incorporate different root vegetables, like parsnips or turnips, for added texture and sweetness.

For a lighter version, you can replace some of the beef with hearty mushrooms or even use a combination of beef and chicken. This not only adds a unique flavor but also reduces the overall richness, making it suitable for different dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is recommended for its tenderness.

→ Is it necessary to use Burgundy wine?

While Burgundy is traditional, any good quality dry red wine will work.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

→ What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

It's delicious with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a crusty baguette.