Classic Beef Bourguignon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich and savory elegance of this Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe, a timeless French dish that brings warmth and comfort to your fall dinner table. Tender beef stewed to perfection in a luscious red wine sauce, combined with aromatic herbs, mushrooms, and pearl onions makes for a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Perfect for cozy family gatherings or impressing dinner guests, this is a culinary journey worth savouring.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-21T04:37:33.322Z

This Classic Beef Bourguignon is a beloved French dish renowned for its depth of flavor and comforting qualities. Simmered slowly to enhance the savory notes of the beef and wine, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal.

The Essence of French Cuisine

French cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors and meticulous techniques. Beef Bourguignon exemplifies this culinary heritage with its deep, savory taste and robust character. Originating from the Burgundy region, this dish showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a masterpiece. Cooking low and slow allows the flavors to meld beautifully, highlighting the quality of the beef and the complexity of the wine.

In Beef Bourguignon, the use of red wine not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a delightful depth that is hard to replicate. This dish provides a perfect opportunity to explore French cooking methods, from braising to sautéing, making it a wonderful project for both novice and experienced cooks alike. The end result is a meal that warms both the heart and the soul.

Perfect Pairings

When serving Beef Bourguignon, consider complementing it with a variety of side dishes that enhance its rich profile. A classic accompaniment is crusty French bread, perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth texture that balances the hearty stew. For a lighter option, buttery noodles or a fresh green salad can add brightness to the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the robust flavors of the beef.

Wine pairing is also essential to elevate your dining experience. A bottle of Pinot Noir or Merlot echoes the wine used in the recipe, providing harmony and sophistication in each sip. For those preferring a non-alcoholic beverage, a rich grape juice with a touch of spice can serve as a delightful alternative.

Making It Your Own

While the Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe offers a traditional approach, there is ample room for personalization. Feel free to experiment with different root vegetables such as parsnips or turnips for added sweetness and depth. You can also incorporate a touch of smoky flavor by adding a few strips of bacon or pancetta at the beginning of cooking, enriching the dish even further.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, a hint of crushed red pepper flakes can bring an unexpected zing to each bite. And if you're looking for an even richer finish, consider adding a splash of heavy cream at the end for a decadent twist. These adaptations not only enhance the dish but also allow for a personal touch that makes the recipe truly yours.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
8 ounces mushrooms, quartered
14 ounces pearl onions, peeled
2 tablespoons butter

These ingredients will help you create a traditional Beef Bourguignon that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

Instructions

Sear the Beef

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the beef with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Sear the beef pieces in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Wine and Broth

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

Bake

Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 2 hours.

Add Mushrooms and Onions

After 2 hours, add the mushrooms and pearl onions to the pot. Cover and continue to bake for another hour.

Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Skim excess fat if necessary. Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes.

Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, don’t rush the searing process. Ensure that the beef pieces are well-browned, as this step develops a robust flavor foundation. Use a heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven, which distributes heat evenly and retains moisture, ensuring that everything cooks uniformly.

Allowing your dish to rest before serving is equally vital. This resting period lets the flavors meld and can even improve the overall taste. Skimming excess fat after cooking not only helps in presenting a more appealing dish but also keeps it from feeling greasy.

Storage and Reheating

Beef Bourguignon is a dish that improves over time, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen as they sit, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals.

To reheat, gently warm your Beef Bourguignon on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of beef broth can help restore moisture and flavor. For best results, avoid cooking it too long, as you don’t want to overcook the beef and lose its tenderness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Beef Bourguignon a day in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

→ What type of wine should I use?

Use a good quality red wine that you would enjoy drinking.