Classic French Beef Bourguignon

Name: Classic French Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 bottle of red wine (preferably Burgundy); 2 cups beef broth; 4 slices of bacon, diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups button mushrooms, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich flavors of traditional French cuisine with this Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:50:59.742Z

This Classic French Beef Bourguignon brings together tender beef, rich red wine, and aromatic vegetables for a comforting dish that embodies the essence of French home cooking.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce
Hearty vegetables that add depth of flavor
Perfect for impressing guests or family gatherings

      

The Essence of French Cuisine

French cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and meticulous preparation methods, and Beef Bourguignon epitomizes this culinary tradition. Originating from the Burgundy region, this dish showcases the art of slow-cooking, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over hours of simmering. The use of high-quality red wine not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the beef, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

The combination of beef, wine, and aromatic vegetables creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. This dish is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings the warmth of French hospitality into your home. Whether you're indulging in a quiet dinner or entertaining guests, Beef Bourguignon promises to impress with its rich heritage and unforgettable taste.

Perfect Pairings

Pairing the right sides with Beef Bourguignon can elevate your dining experience. Traditional accompaniments include creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles, which soak up the luscious sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the dish.

For wine enthusiasts, serving a glass of Burgundy or another full-bodied red wine alongside your meal enhances the flavors of the Beef Bourguignon. The wine's tannins and acidity complement the dish beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable. Don't forget some freshly baked baguette to mop up all that delicious sauce!

Making It Your Own

While the classic recipe is a masterpiece in its own right, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. You can customize your Beef Bourguignon by adding different vegetables such as parsnips or pearl onions, which bring their unique flavors to the dish. Experimenting with herbs, like rosemary or sage, can also give a personal twist to this traditional recipe.

If you're looking to make this dish a bit lighter, consider using a leaner cut of beef or reducing the amount of bacon. You can also substitute the red wine with a non-alcoholic wine or beef broth for a family-friendly version that still packs a punch in flavor. These variations allow you to enjoy the essence of Beef Bourguignon while catering to your dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Beef Bourguignon:

Ingredients

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

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Beef Bourguignon:

Prepare the Beef

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

Brown the Meat

Add the beef cubes to the pot in batches, browning on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

Add onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and flour, cooking for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef and bacon to the pot. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, and add the bouquet garni. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Add Mushrooms

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the mushrooms to the pot. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal!

Storing Leftovers

Beef Bourguignon can be a delightful dish to enjoy the next day, as the flavors continue to develop overnight. To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Cooking Tips

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, be sure to brown the meat in batches rather than overcrowding the pot. This ensures an even sear, which enhances the dish's overall flavor. Additionally, using a high-quality red wine will significantly impact the taste, so choose a wine that you would enjoy drinking.

Don't rush the simmering process; allowing the beef to cook slowly at low heat is crucial for achieving tender meat. If time allows, consider making the dish a day ahead. It tastes even better when reheated, as the flavors have more time to meld together beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Is it necessary to use Burgundy wine?

While Burgundy wine enhances the flavor, any good quality dry red wine will work.

→ Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What should I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

It's great with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttery noodles.