Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French dish that features tender beef slow-cooked in a rich red wine sauce with aromatic vegetables and herbs. This comforting and hearty dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and flavorful – Slow-cooked beef in a deep, savory sauce.
• Classic French cuisine – A traditional dish with gourmet appeal.
• Perfect for special occasions – Elegant yet comforting.
• Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable – Easily adapted for different preferences.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef chuck or stew meat, cut into chunks
• Olive oil
• Bacon, chopped
• Onion, diced
• Carrots, sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Mushrooms, sliced
• Red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
• Beef broth
• Tomato paste
• Fresh thyme
• Bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper
• Flour (for thickening)
• Butter
• Pearl onions

Directions

1. Prepare the beef: Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Brown the meat: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the bacon: In the same pot, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: Add onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened.
5. Deglaze with wine: Pour in red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Simmer the stew: Return the beef and bacon to the pot. Add tomato paste, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
7. Slow cook: Cover and let simmer on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the beef is tender.
8. Finish the dish: In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms and pearl onions in butter. Add to the stew in the final 20 minutes.
9. Thicken the sauce: Mix a small amount of flour with butter and stir it into the stew to thicken.
10. Serve and enjoy: Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs, then serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 3 hours
• Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• No wine? Use additional beef broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Make it gluten-free: Use cornstarch instead of flour.
• Vegetable boost: Add potatoes, parsnips, or extra mushrooms.
• Slow cooker version: Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors develop even more overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.

What wine is best for this recipe?

A dry red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir is traditional.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, but choose a well-marbled cut like brisket or short ribs for the best results.

What can I serve with Beef Bourguignon?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or buttered noodles.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook for 45 minutes.

How do I thicken the sauce without flour?

Use a cornstarch slurry or reduce the liquid by simmering longer.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

The alcohol in the wine cooks off, making it safe for kids.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding celery, leeks, or bell peppers.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the beef.

Can I use store-bought beef stock instead of homemade?

Yes, just choose a high-quality, low-sodium beef broth for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Beef Bourguignon is a timeless dish that combines rich flavors and tender beef for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and savor every bite!

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