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When the first hints of winter chill fill the air, there’s a beckoning warmth from the kitchen that draws you in—a simmering pot of Classic Beef Bourguignon. Imagine the satisfying sound of beef sizzling in a hot pan, the fragrance of garlic and thyme wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This sumptuous French stew, adapted from Julia Child’s beloved recipe, turns simple ingredients into a comforting feast, perfect for cozy nights in or festive family gatherings.

As the beef braises low and slow, it melds with rich burgundy wine and aromatic vegetables, transforming into a sauce so exquisite, you can’t help but dream of crusty bread to soak it up. Whether you’re a seasoned chef seeking a weekend project or a home cook longing to impress your loved ones, this Classic Beef Bourguignon promises to deliver that heartwarming and gourmet experience we all crave. Let’s dive into this classic dish that turns an ordinary evening into something truly special!

Why is Classic Beef Bourguignon a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: Each bite offers a rich, savory depth, blending tender beef with a luscious wine-infused sauce.
Cozy Comfort Food: Perfect for those chilly evenings, this dish wraps you in warmth, making it ideal for family gatherings.
Simple Steps: While it may sound fancy, the streamlined process makes it approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile Variations: Customize by adding your favorite veggies or changing up the wine, ensuring it suits every palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests and satisfy everyone at the table with this gourmet dish that feels indulgent yet familiar.
With the perfect balance of hearty ingredients, this recipe not only elevates your dinner but also warms your heart. Don’t miss the opportunity to create culinary memories!

Classic Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

Unleash the flavors of France with these vital components!

For the Stew

Bacon – Adds smokiness and fat; use lardons or any bacon with good fat content for extra flavor.
Beef Chuck – The main protein; well-marbled for tenderness—can substitute with brisket for a different texture.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil instead.
Onion (Yellow) – Builds an aromatic base; shallots or red onions are nice alternatives if you have them on hand.
Carrots – Bring sweetness and texture; can swap for other root vegetables like parsnips if desired.
Garlic – Adds deep flavor; fresh is ideal, but garlic powder can work in a fistful of situations.
Tomato Paste – Offers acidity and depth; crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute.
All-purpose Flour – Thickens the sauce; replace with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
Burgundy Wine – Establishes a rich flavor; feel free to substitute with any bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Beef Stock – Grounds the dish in flavor; vegetable stock is a good choice for a non-meat version.
Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon – Enhances flavor; can be omitted if you prefer or swap for another brand.
Thyme – Imparts an herby note; dried thyme works in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
Bay Leaves – Adds complexity; it’s best to keep these as they are essential to the flavor.
Frozen Pearl Onions – Contribute sweetness without prep; fresh small onions are a great substitute.
Cremini Mushrooms – Provide an earthy flavor; white button mushrooms can seamlessly replace them.

Elevate your cooking game and impress your family with this delightful Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe!

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential to ensure even cooking of your stew when we transition from stovetop to oven.
Render the bacon in a Dutch oven over medium-low heat until crispy, roughly 5-7 minutes; set aside. The rendered fat is crucial for flavoring the beef and vegetables.
Sear beef chunks in the sizzling bacon fat until nicely browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side; remove from the pot. This step adds a beautiful crust and a depth of flavor.
Sauté onions and carrots in the same pot until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally; this will create a fragrant base for your stew.
Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking until the paste darkens slightly, around 2 minutes. This enhances the sauce’s richness and complexity.
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir for about 2 minutes. This will help thicken the stew and combine with the liquids later.
Pour in the burgundy wine, beef stock, beef bouillon, thyme, and bay leaves, then add the bacon and seared beef back to the pot. Bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the oven; braise for 2 ½ hours. This slow cooking is key to achieving tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef.
Sauté mushrooms and pearl onions in a skillet until browned, about 5-7 minutes, and add to the pot. This step brings more texture and sweetness to the dish.
Return the pot to the oven for an additional 45-60 minutes until the beef is very tender. Perfectly cooked beef will be fork-tender and infused with all the wonderful flavors.
Allow it to rest for 30 minutes before serving. Resting helps the flavors develop further and improves the overall texture of the stew.

Optional: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Choose Quality Wine: Select a wine you enjoy drinking, as this will significantly enhance the flavor of your Classic Beef Bourguignon.
Proper Searing: Ensure your beef chunks are well-seared before braising to develop a rich crust and depth of flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve better browning.
Tight Lid Matters: A tight-fitting lid on your Dutch oven is crucial—it prevents moisture loss during braising, ensuring a succulent finished dish.
Let It Rest: Allowing the stew to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors deepen and improves the texture.
Adjust to Taste: Don’t hesitate to customize seasoning or tweak ingredients; this dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Avoiding Watery Stew: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of cooking, rather than using too much flour from the start.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Variations

Get creative and tailor this delightful dish to your taste buds!

Vegetarian Delight: Substitute bacon with hearty mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian twist that still boasts that comforting depth.
Hearty Potatoes: Incorporate diced potatoes towards the end of cooking to make your stew extra filling and satisfying. The potatoes absorb the rich flavors beautifully!
Fresh Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a vibrant flavor lift that complements the beef nicely. A sprinkle right before serving makes this dish sing!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the stew. Just a touch will awaken your senses!
Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche before serving for a luxurious touch that adds creaminess and a hint of tang. You won’t want to skip this indulgence!
Mushroom Medley: Mix in a variety of mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for an earthy explosion that’s truly decadent. This variation makes the dish even more complex and enjoyable!
Seasonal Veggies: Swap in seasonal vegetables like parsnips or turnips to keep your stew fresh and exciting. Each season brings new tastes—embrace them all!
Red Wine Variety: Try using a different bold red wine, such as Malbec or Syrah, to shift the wine profile slightly and create a unique flavor experience. Each choice brings a new depth!

What to Serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Creating the perfect meal around this rich, flavorful stew will leave your guests dreaming of your culinary skills.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic side that soaks up the savory sauce, bringing a creamy element to each bite.
Crusty French Bread: Slice and serve for dipping, this bread adds a delightful crunch, making each mouthful more satisfying.
Garlic Green Beans: Bright and fresh, these crisp beans add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
Mixed Leafy Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the beef, providing a fresh palate cleanser.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the savory sauce, creating a cozy, rustic feel.
Pinot Noir: This wine complements the hearty flavors of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience and bringing a touch of sophistication.
Dark Chocolate Tart: For dessert, a silky chocolate tart provides a rich finale that echoes the indulgent flavors of your meal.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs provides a light yet comforting base that complements the stew’s robust flavors.

By thoughtfully choosing sides and pairings, you can create a memorable dining experience rooted in warmth and tradition.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Beef Bourguignon preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables (onions, carrots, and mushrooms) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the beef can be seared and placed back in the refrigerator, allowing you to skip the initial cooking steps. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine all the ingredients in your Dutch oven, cover, and braise in the oven as directed; the dish will taste just as delicious as if made fresh. By prepping ahead, you streamline your cooking and make dinner a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing to maintain its rich flavors.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them for easy identification later.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture and texture.

Make-Ahead Tips: This Classic Beef Bourguignon develops even richer flavors after resting in the fridge for a day, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for busy days!

Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right beef for Classic Beef Bourguignon?
For Classic Beef Bourguignon, I recommend using well-marbled beef chuck as it offers excellent flavor and tenderness. Look for a cut with a good amount of fat, which will enrich the stew during cooking. Brisket is another viable option if you’re looking for something slightly different in texture.

How long can I store Classic Beef Bourguignon in the fridge?
You can store Classic Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Allow the stew to cool completely before sealing to ensure the flavors stay intact and prevent condensation. When ready to enjoy, just reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! You can freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. I recommend portioning it out for easier thawing and serving. Just label the bags with the date before popping them in the freezer!

What should I do if my stew turns out too thin?
If you find your Classic Beef Bourguignon is too thin after cooking, don’t worry—there are ways to fix it! Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to form a slurry, and stir it into the simmering stew. Let it cook for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This method is a quick fix and does not require additional cooking time.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
When preparing Classic Beef Bourguignon, consider that it contains beef and bacon, which may be unsuitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian version, you can replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and potatoes, and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.

How does the flavor improve if I make Classic Beef Bourguignon in advance?
Making Classic Beef Bourguignon in advance is a wonderful way to enhance the flavors! The dish develops deeper, richer flavors after sitting for a day in the fridge. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing, and when you reheat, add a splash of broth to help rejuvenate the sauce. Enjoy the transformation in taste!