Classic French Beef Bourguignon

Name: Classic French Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes; 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (preferably Burgundy); 3 cups beef broth; 4 slices bacon, chopped; 2 onions, chopped; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 cup pearl onions, peeled; 1 cup mushrooms, quartered

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Classic French Beef Bourguignon is a hearty, flavorful dish that showcases tender beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce with aromatic vegetables and herbs.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:49:29.822Z

This Classic French Beef Bourguignon is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. Cooked slowly to perfection, the flavors meld beautifully, making it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavors that develop through slow cooking
Tender beef that practically melts in your mouth
A classic dish that impresses at dinner parties or family gatherings

      

The Tradition of Beef Bourguignon

Beef Bourguignon, also known as Boeuf Bourguignon, hails from the Burgundy region of France, where it has been a staple for centuries. Traditionally, this dish was prepared by farmers and laborers as a way to use tougher cuts of beef, allowing the long cooking process to tenderize the meat while infusing it with rich flavors. Today, it stands as a symbol of French culinary excellence, often enjoyed in homes and fine dining establishments alike.

The dish not only highlights the use of quality beef but also showcases the rich red wines that Burgundy is famous for. It combines robust flavors from the wine and the slow-cooked ingredients, making it a true comfort food for many. Whether served in a rustic setting or at an elegant dinner party, Beef Bourguignon is sure to impress.

Perfect Pairings

When serving Beef Bourguignon, consider pairing it with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a Cabernet Sauvignon, to enhance the flavors of the dish. The tannins in these wines complement the richness of the beef and the savory notes of the sauce. Additionally, a crusty French baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.

For side dishes, buttery mashed potatoes or a creamy polenta can provide a wonderful contrast to the deep flavors of the beef. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad can also add brightness to the meal, balancing the hearty richness of the Bourguignon.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Beef Bourguignon, take your time during the cooking process. Browning the beef properly and allowing the flavors to meld during the simmering phase are crucial steps that shouldn't be rushed. Patience is key, and the end result will be worth the wait.

Another helpful tip is to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for a good bottle of red wine that you would enjoy drinking, as this will significantly impact the flavor of your dish. Fresh herbs and high-quality beef broth will also enhance the overall taste, ensuring your Beef Bourguignon is as flavorful as possible.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
1 bottle (750 ml) red wine (preferably Burgundy)
3 cups beef broth
4 slices bacon, chopped
2 onions, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup pearl onions, peeled
1 cup mushrooms, quartered

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

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

Sear the Beef

Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot in batches, browning on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

Add onions and carrots to the pot and sauté until soft. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute.

Combine Ingredients

Return the beef and bacon to the pot. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to coat. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, then add the bouquet garni.

Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 2.5 hours until the beef is tender.

Add Final Ingredients

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add pearl onions and mushrooms to the pot. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Remove the bouquet garni and serve the beef bourguignon hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

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

Storing and Reheating

Beef Bourguignon keeps well, making it an excellent dish for meal prep or leftovers. Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, often tasting even better the next day.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough. You may need to add a splash of broth or wine to loosen the sauce. If you plan to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within three months for the best quality.

Variations to Try

While the classic Beef Bourguignon recipe is beloved, there are numerous variations you can experiment with. For a lighter version, consider using chicken or turkey, which will still soak up the rich flavors of the sauce but offer a different taste profile. Alternatively, try adding root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for an extra layer of flavor.

Another fun twist is to incorporate different herbs and spices. Rosemary or sage can offer a unique taste, while a touch of smoked paprika can add depth. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own while still honoring its classic roots.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white wine instead of red?

While red wine is traditional, you can use white wine for a lighter flavor, but it will change the dish's character.

→ What is the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Beef chuck is ideal for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ Is it necessary to add bacon?

Bacon adds depth and smokiness to the dish, but you can omit it for a lighter version.