Name: Hearty Beef Bourguignon: A Comforting Classic Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Beef Chuck (cut into cubes); 2 cups Red Wine (high-quality Burgundy or Pinot Noir); 4 ounces Bacon (diced); 1 cup Onions (Yellow) (diced into 1/2-inch pieces); 2 cups Carrots (chopped into 1-inch pieces); 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 2 tablespoons Flour (all-purpose); 2 sprigs Thyme (fresh); 2 leaves Bay Leaves; 2 cups Beef Broth and Bouillon Base; 2 tablespoons Butter; 10 ounces Cremini Mushrooms (quartered); 1 cup Pearl Onions (thawed)

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As I inhaled the fragrant aroma wafting through my kitchen, I was instantly transported to a rustic French bistro, where the heartwarming allure of a Classic Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon beckoned. Tender chunks of beef bathed in a rich red wine sauce, infused with aromatic herbs and sautéed vegetables create a dish that’s not only comforting but also an impressive centerpiece for any gathering. This recipe is a showstopper that invites friends and family to gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories while savoring each bite. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you can achieve culinary bliss without spending hours slaving away. Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a cozy retreat with a bowl of hearty goodness?

Why is Beef Bourguignon a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: This Beef Bourguignon combines tender beef and rich red wine, resulting in a stew that dances on your taste buds.

Easy Method: The slow-cooking technique allows for a hassle-free experience, letting you enjoy time with loved ones while it simmers.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy family dinner, this dish captures the essence of comfort food.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adapt the recipe! Experiment with different vegetables or proteins, just like in my Mexican Ground Beef or Cheesy Beef Chimichangas recipes.

Leftovers Made Better: With flavors that deepen overnight, this stew tastes even more delicious the next day—perfect for meal prep!

Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

For the Stew
• Beef Chuck – Provides the main protein with ample marbling for tenderness during slow cooking.
• Red Wine – Use a high-quality Burgundy or Pinot Noir to enhance the rich flavor of the sauce.
• Bacon – Adds a smoky depth and richness that perfectly complements the beef.
• Onions (Yellow) – Diced into 1/2-inch pieces for a sweet, even-cooked flavor boost.
• Carrots – Chopped into 1-inch pieces to maintain texture and sweetness while braising.
• Garlic – Finely minced for an aromatic base that infuses throughout the stew.
• Tomato Paste – Caramelize to deepen umami and richness before mixing with other liquids.
• Flour – All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce via a roux, ensuring a silky texture.
• Thyme and Bay Leaves – Essential herbs for flavor; fresh offers a more aromatic profile.

For Broth and Sautéing
• Beef Broth and Bouillon Base – Adds depth to the braised stew and enhances umami.
• Butter – Used for sautéing vegetables, contributing rich flavors to the dish.

For Texture and Flavor
• Cremini Mushrooms – Quartered for earthy texture that complements the other ingredients.
• Pearl Onions – Thawed for enhanced sweetness and ease of cooking in the stew.

With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a stunning Beef Bourguignon that will warm your heart and impress your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for the slow-cooked Beef Bourguignon, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the beef becomes tender and juicy.

Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add diced bacon and sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the pieces are crispy and golden brown. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the delicious fat in the pot for the next step.

Step 3: Sear Beef
Pat dry your beef chuck cubes with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper. In batches, sear each cube in the reserved bacon fat for 3-4 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and continue with the remaining cubes.

Step 4: Prep Vegetables
With the heat still at medium-high, add diced yellow onions and chopped carrots to the same pot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes aromatic.

Step 5: Create Roux
Add tomato paste to the sautéed vegetables, stirring it in to caramelize for about 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, continuing to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flour is lightly golden, forming a roux that will thicken your Beef Bourguignon sauce.

Step 6: Deglaze Pot
Slowly pour in the red wine, stirring to scrape up the fond from the bottom of the pot, which is packed with flavor. Follow this with the beef broth and bouillon base, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients and create a rich, flavorful base for your stew.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared beef and crispy bacon to the pot. Toss in the fresh thyme and bay leaves, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This melding of flavors sets the stage for a hearty and comforting Beef Bourguignon.

Step 8: Braise
Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it braise for 2.5 hours, during which time the beef will become wonderfully tender and soak up all the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 9: Prepare Mushrooms and Onions
While the stew is cooking, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add quartered cremini mushrooms and thawed pearl onions, sautéing them for about 5-7 minutes until they are nicely browned. Set them aside for the final addition.

Step 10: Final Additions
After the initial braising time, carefully stir in the sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions into the pot. Cover again and return it to the oven, cooking for an additional 45-60 minutes until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors are perfectly combined.

Step 11: Rest and Serve
Once finished, remove the Beef Bourguignon from the oven and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to settle. Before serving, adjust the seasoning as needed, and then enjoy this rich, comforting classic with your favorite sides.

What to Serve with Classic Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon

As the rich aroma envelops your kitchen, the idea of accompanying dishes can elevate your cozy family dinner into a feast of comforting flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture of mashed potatoes soaks up the sauce perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying bite.
Crusty French Bread: Ideal for sopping up every last drop of the savory stew, this bread adds a delightful crunch and balances the tender beef.
Savory Egg Noodles: Lightly buttered egg noodles provide a subtle chew that complements the stew’s heartiness with a satisfying bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette introduces a refreshing contrast to the rich and succulent beef, cleansing the palate between bites.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and beets add a touch of sweetness and earthy flavors that resonate beautifully with the stew’s depth.
Red Wine: A glass of the same quality red wine adds seamless synergy to the meal, enhancing the flavors while encouraging conversations to flow.
Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a bright, fresh flare that balances the dish’s richness, along with a satisfying crunch.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a decadent note with a rich chocolate mousse that melts in the mouth, perfectly capping off the cozy indulgence.

Expert Tips for Beef Bourguignon

Patience is Key: Sear the beef in small batches to achieve a perfect golden crust; overcrowding the pot can cause steaming instead of browning.
Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scraping the fond from the pot after searing enhances flavor; this step is crucial for a rich Beef Bourguignon.
Choose Quality Wine: Use a drinkable, high-quality red wine instead of cooking wine. Your Beef Bourguignon’s flavor hinges on this key ingredient.
Allow Proper Braising: Give the stew enough time in the oven—at least 2.5 hours—for tender beef and deep flavor development.
Finishing Touches: Let the stew rest before serving, allowing flavors to meld and making it even more delicious the next day.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon are ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to savor delightful homemade flavors without last-minute stress! You can prep the beef and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance—simply sear the beef, sauté the vegetables, and combine them in a Dutch oven, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can make the entire dish up to 3 days ahead; just let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary. This way, you’ll enjoy all that rich, comforting flavor as if it were just made, making weekday dinners a cinch!

Beef Bourguignon Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Beef Bourguignon to suit your tastes and dietary needs—it’s all about creating the perfect cozy experience!

Alternative Cuts: Swap beef chuck for chuck shoulder or eye roast for different textures while keeping it tender.
Mushroom Medley: Use a mix of wild mushrooms for a deeper, earthy flavor that enhances the richness of the stew.
Add Peas: Toss in green peas during the last baking stage for a sweet pop of color and an extra veggie boost.
Chicken Version: Substitute beef with chicken thighs for a lighter take while still soaking up that delicious sauce.
Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version of this classic dish.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, to give the stew your personal twist.
Finish with Cream: A splash of heavy cream stirred in just before serving can add a luscious texture for a gourmet touch.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce to spice things up—just be careful to not overwhelm the classic flavors!

Feeling inspired? You might also enjoy trying my delicious Cheesy Beef Chimichangas or a comforting bowl of Korean Ramen with Grilled Beef next!

How to Store and Freeze Beef Bourguignon

Fridge: Store leftover Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious for lunch or dinner.

Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. For best results, let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through for a comforting meal anytime.

Room Temperature: If left at room temperature, consume any leftovers within 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! For the most tender results, I recommend using beef chuck as it has ample marbling and connective tissue that break down beautifully during slow cooking. You can also consider alternatives like chuck shoulder or eye roast; just ensure they have good fat content for richness.

How should I store leftover Beef Bourguignon?
You can refrigerate leftover Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To retain its delightful flavors, let it cool completely before sealing. Trust me, the stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together overnight!

Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon?
Very! You can freeze Beef Bourguignon for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the stew to cool fully first, then ladle it into airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What should I do if my stew is too thick?
If you find your Beef Bourguignon is thicker than you’d like after cooking, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit of beef broth or even a splash of red wine while reheating until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about finding that perfect harmony, and adding liquid can bring your stew back to life.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, you can adapt this Beef Bourguignon to be gluten-free! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Just remember, if using cornstarch, you’ll want to mix it with a little cold broth first to create a slurry before adding it to the stew, ensuring a smooth texture without clumps.

Is it safe to leave the stew at room temperature?
It’s best to consume any leftovers within 2 hours if left at room temperature, to ensure food safety. If it’s out longer than that, it’s better to be safe and discard it. Always prioritize safety to keep your delicious creations enjoyable!