Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then this classic beef bourguignon recipe is just what you need! Imagine tender chunks of beef melting in your mouth, surrounded by earthy mushrooms and sweet pearl onions, all enveloped in a rich apple vinegar sauce. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes any meal feel special and is perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home.

This dish not only showcases the wonderful flavors of classic French cuisine but also invites everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday feast, this classic beef bourguignon recipe will surely impress your loved ones and become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and comforting: This dish warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly nights.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps, even novice cooks can create this gourmet delight.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it in advance and let the flavors deepen over time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone at the table will love this rich, flavorful stew.
• Versatile leftovers: Enjoy it as-is or transform it into other meals throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes cooking so enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need for your classic beef bourguignon recipe:

For the Base

• 5 strips bacon, cut into 1 pieces
• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2 pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced

For Flavor & Sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups Burgundy apple vinegar, or other bold apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon beef bouillon
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves, dried or fresh

For the Finishing Touches

• 10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked pepper

Variations

One of the best parts about this classic beef bourguignon recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or seitan for a different flavor profile while still keeping things delicious.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some potatoes or parsnips for added texture and heartiness.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you enjoy some heat.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that when you’re ready to transfer your pot for slow cooking, it’s all set to go!

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Add your chopped bacon to a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Cook until it’s browned and has released its fat. This step not only adds depth of flavor but also enriches the base of your dish. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season those cubes of beef generously with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and sear them until they are beautifully browned on all sides. This caramelization brings out incredible flavors that will enhance your stew.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium and add two tablespoons of butter. Toss in your onions and carrots, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they start softening. Add minced garlic next and cook for another minute before incorporating tomato paste. Stir well until everything looks nice and vibrant!

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock & Herbs

Now comes the magic! Pour in that apple vinegar while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Then add beef stock and Better than Bouillon. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before returning your seared beef and crispy bacon back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaves.

Step 6: Cook Low & Slow

Cover your Dutch oven and place it in the preheated oven. Let it cook slowly for about 2½ hours—this is when all those beautiful flavors meld together.

Step 7: Incorporate Mushrooms & Pearl Onions

As you approach that last half hour mark, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook quartered mushrooms until browned; add pearl onions next until they get some lovely color too. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 8: Final Touches Before Serving

Once your beef has cooked down beautifully, remove it from the oven and stir in those sautéed mushrooms and onions. Return everything back into the oven for an additional 45-60 minutes until that beef is fork-tender. Afterward, let it rest covered for about half an hour before serving—it’s worth waiting just a bit longer!

And there you have it—a delightful classic beef bourguignon recipe ready to savor with loved ones! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Cooking this classic beef bourguignon is a delightful experience, and with a few extra tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opt for a chuck roast or brisket as these cuts become tender and flavorful after long cooking times. They are perfect for stews as they break down beautifully and soak up all the rich flavors.
• Marinate overnight: If time allows, marinate the beef in apple vinegar and herbs overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time when searing the beef and vegetables. Browning adds depth and richness to the dish by creating those lovely caramelized bits that contribute to the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning before serving: After cooking, taste your stew and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. This final touch will elevate all the flavors you’ve built throughout the cooking process.
• Let it rest: Allowing your beef bourguignon to rest for about 30 minutes after removing it from the oven lets the flavors meld together even more, ensuring every bite is deliciously cohesive.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Serving your classic beef bourguignon can be just as exciting as cooking it! Here are some simple ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances out the rich flavors of the stew.
• Thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme on top not only look appealing but also echo the herbs used in cooking, enhancing that aromatic experience.

Side Dishes

• Crusty baguette: A warm, crusty French baguette is perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. Serve it sliced alongside your stew for an authentic touch.
• Creamy mashed potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes offer a luxurious contrast to the robust stew. Their creaminess pairs wonderfully with every savory bite.
• Green beans almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds add a crunchy texture and a nice visual contrast to your plate.
• Roasted root vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes complements the meat while adding sweetness and earthiness to your meal.

With these suggestions, your classic beef bourguignon will not only taste amazing but also impress anyone at your dinner table! Enjoy every mouthful of this hearty French classic!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this classic beef bourguignon recipe is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the rich flavors to develop even further. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef bourguignon to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to keep any leftover mushrooms and pearl onions mixed into the stew.

Freezing

• Portion out the beef bourguignon into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quicker thawing.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covering it to retain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about the classic beef bourguignon recipe that might help you in your cooking adventure!

Can I use different cuts of beef for this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal due to its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also try using brisket or round for different textures and flavors.

What do I serve with my Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. These sides will complement the rich sauce perfectly!

How long does Classic Beef Bourguignon last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your classic beef bourguignon will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! You can substitute seitan or mushrooms for beef and use vegetable stock instead. Adjust seasonings accordingly for optimal flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this classic beef bourguignon recipe! Its comforting flavors and tender textures make it truly special—perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful family dinner. Enjoy every bite and feel free to add your personal touch as you serve it up! Happy cooking!