Classic French Beef Bourguignon

Name: Classic French Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 slices of bacon, diced; 1 bottle (750ml) red wine (preferably Burgundy); 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 oz mushrooms, quartered; 2 tablespoons butter; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich, hearty flavors of traditional French cuisine with this Classic French Beef Bourguignon recipe.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:28:29.520Z

This Classic French Beef Bourguignon is a timeless dish that brings the warmth of the French countryside to your table. Slow-cooked to perfection, it's a wonderful way to enjoy tender beef infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavors developed through slow cooking
Tender beef that melts in your mouth
A classic dish perfect for gatherings and special occasions

      

The Art of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is the heart and soul of this Classic French Beef Bourguignon. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a dish that’s not just a meal, but an experience. As the beef simmers in the red wine and beef broth, it absorbs the aromatic essence of the herbs and vegetables, creating a depth of flavor that is simply unmatched. The longer you cook it, the more tender and flavorful the beef becomes, making it a perfect dish for those cozy evenings at home.

One of the keys to successful slow cooking is patience. While it might be tempting to rush the process, allowing the beef to simmer gently ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and tenderness. This recipe is forgiving; even if you leave it on the stove a bit longer than intended, the results will still be delicious. So, grab a good book or enjoy a glass of wine while your Beef Bourguignon cooks away!

Perfect Pairings

When serving Beef Bourguignon, consider pairing it with traditional French sides that complement its rich flavors. A classic choice is creamy mashed potatoes, which are excellent for soaking up the savory sauce. You might also opt for crusty French bread, perfect for dipping into the stew. For a lighter option, a vibrant green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef.

Wine pairing is essential for enhancing this dish. Since you’re cooking with red Burgundy, it’s a natural choice to serve the same wine alongside your meal. The wine's acidity and flavor profile will harmonize beautifully with the dish, creating a cohesive dining experience that celebrates the flavors of France. Remember, the key to a memorable meal is not just the food, but the entire experience around it.

Storing and Reheating

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 slices of bacon, diced
1 bottle (750ml) red wine (preferably Burgundy)
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 oz mushrooms, quartered
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to use quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

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

Brown the Beef

In the same pot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.

Deglaze

Pour in the wine, scraping the bottom of the pot. Add the beef broth, bouquet garni, and browned beef along with the bacon.

Simmer

Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.

Finish with Mushrooms

In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté mushrooms until browned. Stir them into the beef stew in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serve

Remove the bouquet garni, season with salt and pepper, and serve garnished with fresh parsley.

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

Tips for Success

To ensure your Beef Bourguignon is perfect every time, start with high-quality ingredients. Choose a good cut of beef, such as chuck, which becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly. Opt for a red wine that you enjoy drinking; the better the wine, the better the stew will taste. Additionally, don’t skip the bouquet garni; it infuses the dish with essential herbal notes that elevate the overall flavor profile.

Another tip is to brown the beef properly. This step is essential for developing a rich, deep flavor. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot when searing the beef; this allows for a better caramelization. Lastly, feel free to adjust the vegetables according to your preference. Adding pearl onions or even some parsnips can introduce a new dimension to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Bourguignon is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. For a rustic touch, ladle the stew into shallow bowls and serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. If you're planning a more formal gathering, consider plating it elegantly with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a creamy polenta. This will not only enhance the presentation but also elevate the entire dining experience.

For a truly authentic French experience, consider finishing your meal with a traditional dessert like Tarte Tatin or Crème Brûlée. This will round out your culinary journey and leave your guests impressed. Remember, the goal is to create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the rich heritage of French cuisine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round, but chuck is the best for tenderness.

→ What wine should I use?

A full-bodied red wine like Burgundy or Cabernet Sauvignon works best.

→ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just sear the beef and vegetables first, then combine everything in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.