Classic French Beef Bourguignon

Name: Classic French Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; 1 large onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cups red wine (preferably Burgundy); 2 cups beef stock; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, and parsley); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 oz mushrooms, quartered; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Discover the rich and hearty flavors of this classic French dish, perfect for warming up your evenings.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:16:00.182Z

Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French dish that beautifully combines tender beef, rich red wine, and aromatic vegetables. This recipe captures the essence of French cuisine and is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavors that are comforting and satisfying
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home

      

The Essence of French Cuisine

French cuisine is celebrated for its depth of flavor and attention to detail, and Beef Bourguignon is a prime example of this culinary artistry. This dish combines the simplicity of rustic ingredients with the sophistication of French cooking techniques. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and refined, making it a staple in French households and restaurants alike.

At its core, Beef Bourguignon showcases the beauty of using high-quality ingredients. From the tender cuts of beef to the rich, full-bodied red wine, each component plays a vital role in creating the dish's signature taste. This recipe encourages you to take your time, savoring each step of the cooking process, which ultimately leads to a rewarding and memorable dining experience.

Perfect Pairings

Beef Bourguignon is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Traditional accompaniments include crusty French bread, which is perfect for mopping up the rich sauce, or creamy mashed potatoes that complement the savory flavors of the beef. You could also serve it alongside buttery egg noodles or a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

For a beverage pairing, a glass of the same red wine used in cooking—preferably Burgundy—will enhance the meal's overall experience. The wine's acidity and fruity notes bring out the dish's flavors, creating a harmonious balance that elevates your dining experience even further.

Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about Beef Bourguignon is that it tastes even better the next day! The flavors deepen and develop as it sits, making it an ideal dish for meal prep or leftovers. To store, simply place the cooled dish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in individual portions for a quick, delicious meal later on.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or wine if needed to loosen the sauce. This method ensures that the meat remains tender and flavorful, allowing you to enjoy the rich taste of your Beef Bourguignon as if it were freshly made.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.

Brown the Meat

In the same pot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

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

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef and bacon to the pot. Add the wine, beef stock, tomato paste, and bouquet garni. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 2 hours, until the beef is tender.

Add Mushrooms

In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté the mushrooms until browned. Add them to the pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Serve

Remove the bouquet garni before serving. Enjoy your Beef Bourguignon with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your meal with family and friends!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Beef Bourguignon turns out perfectly, choose a quality cut of beef, such as chuck or brisket, which benefits from slow cooking. Cutting the meat into uniform cubes allows for even browning and cooking, enhancing the dish's texture and flavor. Additionally, don’t rush the browning process; taking the time to develop a rich crust on the meat will add depth to the final dish.

When it comes to wine, opt for a full-bodied red like Burgundy, as its tannins and acidity complement the beef beautifully. If you're not familiar with wine selection, don't hesitate to ask your local wine shop for recommendations.

Variations to Try

While the classic Beef Bourguignon recipe is a timeless favorite, there are several variations you can explore. For a twist, try adding pearl onions or a splash of cognac for additional richness. You can also incorporate root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added flavor and nutrition.

For a lighter version, consider substituting the beef with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative, making this dish suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and you’ll still achieve a hearty, satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness.

→ Is it necessary to use wine?

Wine adds depth to the flavor, but if you prefer, you can use additional beef stock.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

→ What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

It's traditionally served with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.