Classic Beef Bourguignon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich, comforting flavors of this Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe, a perfect dish for your fall dinner gatherings. Slow-cooked with tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and robust red wine, this French classic warms the soul and elevates any occasion. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Sam Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-22T09:33:45.442Z

This Classic Beef Bourguignon is a timeless French recipe that warms the heart and delights the palate. The combination of high-quality beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich red wine creates a symphony of flavors that truly represents French culinary excellence.

Understanding Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon is a quintessential French dish hailing from the Burgundy region. Its hearty ingredients and slow-cooking technique result in a meal that's not only delicious but also deeply satisfying. Traditionally, this dish features high-quality beef stew cooked in red wine, which imparts rich flavors and tenderizes the meat. The combination of beef, aromatic vegetables, and robust red wine creates a complex flavor profile that showcases the essence of French comfort food.

What sets Beef Bourguignon apart is its bouquet garni, a bundle of herbs that adds depth to the dish as it simmers. This classic recipe allows for variations, making it a versatile choice for home cooks. Whether served in a formal setting or a casual family dinner, this dish consistently impresses and delights, bringing the warmth of French cuisine to your table.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving Beef Bourguignon, side dishes can elevate your dining experience significantly. Classic accompaniments include creamy mashed potatoes, which absorb the rich sauce beautifully. Alternatively, consider a crusty loaf of French bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavors. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast.

For beverage pairings, continue the French theme with a glass of Burgundy or another quality red wine. The wine’s bold flavors will enhance the meal and create a cohesive dining experience. Should you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with fresh lemon or a non-alcoholic red wine to maintain the essence of the dish.

Tips for Success

Ingredients

For the Beef Bourguignon

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

Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion and carrots to the pot, sautéing until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot, then add the wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and bouquet garni. Bring to a simmer.

Slow-Cook the Dish

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 3 hours until the beef is tender.

Final Touch

Add the mushrooms in the last 30 minutes of cooking, adjusting seasoning as necessary before serving.

Enjoy your delicious beef bourguignon!

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and improve overnight. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can be kept for up to three months.

When reheating, do so on low heat to retain the tenderness of the beef. If you find the sauce has thickened too much during storage, you can easily adjust the consistency by adding a splash of beef broth or red wine while reheating.

Customizing the Recipe

Beef Bourguignon is a versatile dish that allows for personal touches and adaptations. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Adding pearl onions, parsnips, or even diced potatoes can add variety and texture to the stew. For a touch of sweetness, consider including some diced bacon during the sautéing stage to enhance the overall complexity of flavors.

Vegans and vegetarians can also enjoy a plant-based version of this classic. Substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or seitan, and use vegetable broth and red wine to create a tantalizing flavor profile. The essence of slow cooking can still shine through in these variations, offering a comforting meal for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.