Classic Beef Bourguignon

Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes; 750 ml red wine (preferably Burgundy); 4 cups beef stock; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound mushrooms, quartered; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the heartwarming flavors of Classic Beef Bourguignon, a rich and savory French stew that transforms tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and earthy mushrooms into a cozy meal. Simmered slowly in red wine for depth and finished with fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for gatherings or a comforting family dinner.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-02T13:46:10.393Z

This classic French dish originated in the region of Burgundy, where it was traditionally made with red wine. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a stew that is both rich and comforting.

A Taste of French Tradition

Beef Bourguignon is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience steeped in tradition. Originating from the Burgundy region of France, this recipe has been passed down through generations, embodying the rich and rustic flavors of French cuisine. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, contributing to a harmonious blend of taste and texture that will transport your palate straight to the vineyards of Burgundy.

The hallmark of this stew is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, the slow cooking process transforms them into a dish that feels luxurious yet is attainable for home cooks. This recipe celebrates the essence of French cooking: using quality ingredients, allowing them to shine, and taking the time to develop incredible flavors.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a festive dinner party or preparing a cozy meal for your family, Classic Beef Bourguignon fits every occasion. Its aroma fills the kitchen, bringing warmth and inviting everyone to the table. This dish not only pleases the palate but also creates lasting memories as loved ones gather around the pot, sharing stories over hearty servings.

Furthermore, Beef Bourguignon is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, creamy mashed potatoes, or even simple rice, making it adaptable to your personal taste and pantry availability. Regardless of how you serve it, the depth of flavor remains a comforting constant.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, use a good quality red wine, as it significantly impacts the richness of the dish. Burgundy wine is traditional, but any dry red wine you enjoy will work well. Additionally, consider marinating the beef in the wine overnight for an enriched flavor profile.

When cooking, don't rush the browning process. Taking your time to sear the beef and vegetables allows for deeper flavor development. Remember to deglaze the pot after browning. This means scraping up those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the stew.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
750 ml red wine (preferably Burgundy)
4 cups beef stock
4 slices of bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound mushrooms, quartered
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best taste!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by prepping all ingredients. Cut the beef into cubes, chop the bacon, and dice the vegetables.

Brown the Bacon

In a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.

Brown the Beef

In the same pot, brown the beef cubes in the bacon fat. Do this in batches to not overcrowd the pot. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion and carrots to the pot, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the beef back to the pot along with the cooked bacon, wine, beef stock, tomato paste, and bouquet garni. Bring to a simmer.

Slow Cook

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 2 hours until the beef is tender.

Serve

Remove the bouquet garni, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your delicious Classic Beef Bourguignon!

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing wine with your Beef Bourguignon can elevate the dining experience even further. Opt for a full-bodied Pinot Noir or a rich Cabernet Sauvignon that complements the dish's depth. Serving a light, crisp salad could also balance the richness of the stew, providing a refreshing contrast.

For a truly authentic French experience, consider serving the stew with a French baguette. The crusty texture is perfect for soaking up the savory sauce, making each bite a delight. Complement your meal with a classic French cheese board for a delightful finish.

Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about Beef Bourguignon is that it tastes even better the next day! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making reheating a treat for your taste buds.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the beef, which can make it tough. Add a splash of beef stock or red wine to restore moisture, ensuring that each serving is as delightful as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

→ What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

Traditional accompaniments include crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.