Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 6 slices Bacon (Adds rich, savory flavor; substitute with pancetta or omit for a leaner version.); 2 lbs Beef Chuck (Ideal for braising due to marbling; may substitute with brisket.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Used for sautéing vegetables; can be replaced with olive oil for dairy-free.); 1 large Yellow Onion (Provides sweetness; any variety can be used, but yellow is recommended.); 2 medium Carrots (Replicates sweetness and texture; substituting with parsnips can add unique flavors.); 4 cloves Garlic (For aromatic flavor; garlic powder could be used as a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Adds umami; can use fresh tomatoes or omit if unavailable.); 2 tablespoons All-purpose Flour (Thickens the sauce; for gluten-free, use cornstarch or gluten-free flour.); 2 cups Burgundy Wine (Essential for authentic flavor; any bold red wine can be substituted.); 2 cups Beef Stock (Provides a rich foundation; vegetable stock can be used for a lighter option.); 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon (Intensifies flavor; can use store-bought cubes or homemade stock.); 4 sprigs Fresh Thyme (Essential for depth; dried herbs can be used but adjust amounts.); 2 leaves Bay Leaves (Essential for flavor; dried can be used but are more potent.); 1 cup Frozen Pearl Onions (For sweetness and visual appeal; chopped onions can substitute.); 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms (Add earthiness; can substitute with button mushrooms.)

As I sat down with friends on a chilly evening, the aroma wafting from the kitchen transported us to the heart of France. This Classic Beef Bourguignon is not just a dish; it’s a cozy embrace in a bowl, crafted with tender beef braised in a rich, aromatic wine sauce that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just craving a warm one-pot meal, this recipe promises to delight your family and friends, leaving them asking for seconds. What’s even better? It’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors for days. Curious how this French masterpiece can become your new go-to for winter nights?

What makes Beef Bourguignon so special?

Comforting Tradition: This Classic Beef Bourguignon is steeped in French culinary history, offering a taste of tradition right in your home.
Rich, Deep Flavor: The slow braising process melds rich red wine with tender beef, creating an unforgettable sauce that elevates this dish to restaurant quality.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or busy weeknights.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it in advance; the flavors improve as it rests, allowing you to enjoy delightful leftovers that taste just as good!
Versatile Pairing: Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. If you’re looking for something equally comforting, you might enjoy my Tuscan Beef Casserole or the Garlic Butter Beef Spinach Tortellini for a twist!

Classic Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

For the Stew

Bacon – Adds rich, savory flavor; substitute with pancetta or omit for a leaner version.
Beef Chuck – The main protein source, ideal for braising due to its marbling; you may substitute with brisket for different flavors and textures.
Unsalted Butter – Used for sautéing vegetables and adds richness; can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; any variety of onion can be used, but yellow is recommended for its balance.
Carrots – Replicate sweetness and texture; substituting with parsnips can add a unique flavor profile.
Garlic cloves – For aromatic flavor; garlic powder could be used as a substitute for convenience.
Tomato Paste – Adds umami and thickens the stew; you can use fresh tomatoes or omit if unavailable, though flavor will be less intense.
All-purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; for a gluten-free option, use cornstarch slurry or gluten-free flour.
Burgundy Wine – Essential for authentic flavor; any bold red wine can be substituted, such as cabernet sauvignon or merlot.
Beef Stock – Provides a rich foundation; vegetable stock can be used for a lighter option.
Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon – Intensifies flavor; substitutes can be store-bought cubes or homemade stock.
Fresh Thyme & Bay Leaves – Essential herbs for depth; dried herbs can be used, but adjust the amounts due to potency.
Frozen Pearl Onions – For sweetness and visual appeal; regular chopped onions can substitute if necessary.
Cremini Mushrooms – Add earthiness and texture; substitute with button mushrooms if cremini is unavailable.

Enjoy creating this Classic Beef Bourguignon that will warm you from the inside out!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for creating the perfect environment to braise your Classic Beef Bourguignon, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Make sure your oven is fully heated before proceeding to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Render the Bacon
In a 5-quart Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium-low heat for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and crispy. As the fat renders, the kitchen will fill with a delicious aroma that signals rich flavor ahead. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat for the next step.

Step 3: Sear the Beef
Season your beef chuck pieces generously with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the beef to the hot bacon fat, searing each piece for about 3-4 minutes on all sides until nicely browned. This step develops great depth of flavor. After browning, remove the beef and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the same pot. Add chopped yellow onions and sliced carrots; sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the paste deepens in color, enhancing the flavor profile of your Classic Beef Bourguignon.

Step 5: Make the Roux
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes. This roux will help thicken your stew, bringing all the ingredients together. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s lightly golden and fragrant, providing a solid base for the rich sauce to come.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in 2 cups of burgundy wine while scraping the bottom of the pot to release all the flavorful brown bits. The wine should begin to simmer; then add 2 cups of beef stock and 1 tablespoon of Better than Bouillon beef bouillon. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, creating a robust foundation for your stew.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared beef and crispy bacon to the pot. Add 4 sprigs of fresh thyme and 2 bay leaves, stirring to combine. Cover the Dutch oven tightly with its lid, then transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 2½ hours, allowing the beef to become tender and absorb the wonderful flavors of the broth.

Step 8: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté sliced cremini mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Add frozen pearl onions to the skillet, cooking until they are softened. Carefully incorporate them into the beef mixture, then return the pot to the oven for an additional 45-60 minutes.

Step 9: Rest the Stew
Once the beef is meltingly tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let it sit, covered, for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to develop further before you serve your heartwarming Classic Beef Bourguignon, making every bite a comforting experience.

How to Store and Freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-6 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the flavors and tenderness.

Freezer: This Classic Beef Bourguignon can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Thawing: To defrost, transfer the frozen stew to the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting, then reheat thoroughly before serving.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water to maintain the desired sauce consistency. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!

Expert Tips for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Choose Quality Wine: Select a bold red wine like Burgundy for the best flavor; avoid cooking wine, as it’s often lower quality and can alter the taste.
Don’t Rush the Searing: Properly browning the beef and bacon enhances flavor. Take your time; this step creates a deeper, richer broth.
Watch the Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking. Slower braising leads to tender beef, achieving the ideal texture for your Classic Beef Bourguignon.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves impart a more vibrant flavor than dried. If using dried, reduce the amount as they are more potent.
Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for at least 30 minutes after cooking. This resting time helps the flavors marry beautifully before serving.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Classic Beef Bourguignon and tailor it to your taste preferences!

Gluten-Free: Use a cornstarch slurry instead of flour for thickening, ensuring your stew remains deliciously hearty without gluten.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the beef for hearty vegetables like lentils or mushrooms, using vegetable broth for a satisfying and wholesome dish.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh rosemary or sage alongside thyme for a delightful twist, adding new layers of flavor to your stew.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to introduce warmth and spice to the dish, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Wine Explorer: Opt for a robust Zinfandel or a spicy Shiraz in place of Burgundy wine, creating a unique flavor profile that surprises your palate.
Creamy Accent: Stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a luscious, creamy finish to your stew.
Umami Boost: Toss in a few tablespoons of soy sauce or miso paste, enhancing the savoriness and depth of your Classic Beef Bourguignon.
Nutty Texture: Incorporate chopped toasted walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the stew beautifully.

These variations ensure your homemade Classic Beef Bourguignon can adapt to every mood and gathering, just like one of my favorites, the Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells. If you love a hearty meal, don’t forget to try the comforting Beef Stroganoff Master!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Beef Bourguignon preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline mealtime! You can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, the beef can be browned and combined with the other ingredients, then refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to serve, simply transfer everything to your Dutch oven and follow the cooking instructions as usual. Be sure to let the dish rest covered for 30 minutes after removing it from the oven; this enhances the flavors and ensures it’s just as delicious as when made fresh. This way, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon

When the aroma of this savory stew fills your home, you know something delicious is on the table, inviting everyone to gather around.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, they soak up the rich sauce perfectly, making every bite a comforting experience.
Crusty Baguette: A warm, chewy loaf to mop up the luxurious sauce is essential, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew, balancing the richness beautifully.
Roasted Root Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes enhances the savory notes of the beef, complementing its depth.
Garlic Butter Green Beans: Bright and sautéed to tender-crisp perfection, they add a lovely pop of color along with garlicky flavor to the plate.
Red Wine: A glass of the same bold red wine used in the recipe will elevate the meal, bringing out the flavors of the beef and herbs.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a divine note with a luxuriously rich dessert that pairs beautifully with the depth of the stew, satisfying any sweet tooth.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right beef for Beef Bourguignon?
Choosing well-marbled beef chuck is key for this dish, as its fat and connective tissue break down beautifully during the slow braising process. You might also consider brisket for a slightly different flavor and texture; just make sure to cut it into uniform pieces for even cooking.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store your Classic Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-6 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to maintain freshness, and always reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to ensure the beef stays tender.

Can I freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon?
Yes, you can freeze it! After letting the stew cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use your microwave’s defrost setting—just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving!

What if my stew seems too thin after cooking?
If you end up with a thinner sauce than desired, don’t worry! You can thicken it by creating a quick cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then stir this mixture into the simmering stew until it reaches your desired thickness. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered for a little longer to reduce and intensify the flavors.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
A great question! This Classic Beef Bourguignon contains beef, wine, and gluten from the flour. If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can omit the flour for a gluten-free option and substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Just ensure the vegetable broth is free of allergens. Always check ingredients to suit your guests’ needs!

How do I know when the beef is perfectly tender?
The key indicator for perfectly cooked beef bourguignon is tenderness—after about 2½ to 3 hours of braising, the beef should be fork-tender, easily breaking apart when prodded. To ensure you reach this point, check it at regular intervals during the final simmer, allowing for delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.