Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes; 4 slices bacon, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups red wine; 2 cups beef stock; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp thyme; 1 lb mushrooms, sliced; 2 tbsp flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 tbsp olive oil

There's nothing quite like the rich aroma of Classic Beef Bourguignon simmering on the stove. This French classic transforms humble ingredients into a hearty, luxurious dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.

I first fell in love with Beef Bourguignon on a chilly evening at a small Parisian bistro. The tender beef, velvety sauce, and earthy vegetables warmed me to my core, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You'll Love This Classic Beef Bourguignon

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this stunning dish. Classic Beef Bourguignon is much more than just a stew—it's a labor of love that rewards you with incredible depth of flavor.

First, it's a showstopper when entertaining. The melt-in-your-mouth beef and aromatic sauce feel fancy, yet the recipe is straightforward enough for any home cook.

Second, the leftovers are unbeatable. If you’re lucky enough to have any left, the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Finally, this dish is endlessly versatile. Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread, it’s a meal that adapts to whatever you're craving.

The magic starts in the kitchen, where simple ingredients transform into something unforgettable.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to Classic Beef Bourguignon lies in using high-quality ingredients and allowing each one to shine. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

Beef Chuck Roast forms the foundation of this recipe. Its marbling ensures tender, juicy results after long, slow cooking. Cut it into large chunks for the best texture.

Red Wine is a key ingredient, infusing the dish with deep, robust flavor. Choose a dry red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir for authenticity, though any quality red wine works well.

Pearl Onions and Carrots add sweetness and balance to the savory, wine-infused sauce. Use fresh, if possible, for optimal flavor, but frozen pearl onions are a convenient alternative.

Mushrooms bring a delightful earthiness to the dish. Sauté them separately before adding to the stew to enhance their texture and flavor.

Thyme and Bay Leaves provide aromatic depth. Fresh herbs are ideal, but dried can be substituted in a pinch.

Lastly, a sturdy Dutch oven is essential for this recipe. Its even heat distribution ensures your Beef Bourguignon cooks perfectly every time.

How To Make This Classic Beef Bourguignon

Crafting Classic Beef Bourguignon is an art, but it’s simpler than you might think. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you'll create a masterpiece.

Begin by prepping your ingredients. Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels—this ensures a beautiful sear. Season them generously with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. This step builds the base for the rich, complex flavors of the dish.

Once the beef is browned, set it aside and sauté diced onions and garlic until softened. Sprinkle in a bit of flour and cook for a minute to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.

Deglaze the pan with your red wine, scraping up all those flavorful bits from the bottom. Then, add the beef back to the pot, along with beef stock, tomato paste, and herbs. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the oven, where the magic happens. After about 2 hours at 325°F, the beef will become irresistibly tender.

Before serving, sauté the mushrooms and pearl onions in butter, then stir them into the stew. Let everything meld together for another 20 minutes on the stovetop.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Classic Beef Bourguignon stores beautifully. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of Classic Beef Bourguignon is its adaptability. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Swap out beef chuck for brisket or short ribs for a different texture.
Use vegetable stock and omit the meat to create a vegetarian-friendly version with extra mushrooms.
Add a touch of cognac or brandy to the sauce for a more luxurious flavor.
Experiment with root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added variety.

No matter how you customize this dish, the result will always be a comforting, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Making Classic Beef Bourguignon is a rewarding process that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and results in a dish worthy of any occasion. With its tender beef, rich sauce, and hearty vegetables, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Enjoy every bite of this French masterpiece!