Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon: Elevate Your Home Cooking Game
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Bacon (Provides a smoky flavor; can omit for lighter option); 2 lbs Beef Chuck (Cut into 2” pieces); 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with olive oil for dairy-free); 1 large Yellow Onion (Adds sweetness; can swap with shallots); 4 medium Carrots (Enhances sweetness and texture); 3 cloves Garlic (Provides aromatic depth); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Contributes umami richness); 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (Omit for gluten-free, use cornstarch); 2 cups Burgundy Wine (Key flavor component; any bold red wine can work); 3 cups Beef Stock (Adds richness; use vegetable stock for lighter version); 1 tbsp Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon (Boosts beef flavor; can skip if concentrated stock is used); 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme (For herbal notes; can use dry thyme); 2 leaves Bay Leaves (Contributes earthy notes; omit if unavailable); 1 cup Frozen Pearl Onions (Adds sweetness; fresh shallots can be used); 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms (Enhances umami flavor; can use button mushrooms); 1 tbsp Kosher Salt (For seasoning; sea salt is an alternative); 1 tsp Freshly Cracked Pepper (Use ground pepper if whole peppercorns aren’t available); 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley (Optional for garnish)

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The aroma wafting from the kitchen was nothing short of enchanting; it was as if the warmth of the French countryside had come alive. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Classic Beef Bourguignon, a comforting dish that brings tender beef and a rich, red wine sauce together with effortless elegance. What I love about this recipe is how it simplifies the traditional process while still delivering deep, mouthwatering flavors that make it perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for gluten-free diets, so no one has to miss out on this hearty stew. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful classic? Let’s dive in!

Why is Classic Beef Bourguignon a Must-Try?

Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef makes this dish unforgettable! The slow cooking process yields deep flavors that encapsulate warmth and comfort.
Versatility shines through, allowing you to easily adapt the recipe for gluten-free needs by substituting flour with cornstarch.
Aromatic herbs and rich red wine create a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table.
Simplicity at its core means you don’t need to be a culinary wizard to achieve a gourmet experience.
Pair it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a fulfilling meal, making it perfect for cozy gatherings!

Classic Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this rich beef stew that will have your family asking for seconds!

For the Stew
Bacon – Provides a smoky, savory flavor; can use pancetta or omit for a lighter option.
Beef Chuck – Cut into 2” pieces for optimal braising; brisket can substitute for added flavor but may require trimming excess fat.
Unsalted Butter – Used for sautéing; substitutes with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness; can swap with shallots for a milder flavor.
Carrots – Enhances sweetness and texture; no direct substitutions but can add parsnips for variation.
Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; can use garlic powder in a pinch.
Tomato Paste – Contributes umami richness; substitute with crushed tomatoes if unavailable.
All-Purpose Flour – For thickening sauce; omit and use cornstarch for gluten-free.
Burgundy Wine – Key flavor component of the dish; any bold red wine works as a substitute.
Beef Stock – Adds richness; use vegetable stock for a lighter version.
Better than Bouillon Beef Bouillon – Boosts beef flavor; can skip if using concentrated stock.
Fresh Thyme – For herbal notes; dry thyme can substitute, though potency varies.
Bay Leaves – Contributes earthy notes; omit if unavailable.
Frozen Pearl Onions – Adds sweetness and texture; can use fresh shallots instead.
Cremini Mushrooms – Enhances umami flavor; use button mushrooms if preferred.
Kosher Salt – For seasoning; sea salt is an alternative.
Freshly Cracked Pepper – Provides spice; use ground pepper if whole peppercorns aren’t available.
For the Garnish
Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; optional for a beautiful finish.

With these ingredients, your Classic Beef Bourguignon will surely become a family favorite, enveloping dinner tables in warmth and love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Bacon
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to set the stage for a warm, slow braise. In a large Dutch oven, add diced bacon and cook over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes, or until it’s beautifully browned and crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot, and set the bacon aside on a paper towel.

Step 2: Sear the Beef
In the same Dutch oven, increase the heat to medium-high and add cubes of seasoned beef chuck. Sear the beef in batches for about 3–4 minutes on each side, achieving a nice brown crust to deepen the flavor. Once browned, use tongs to transfer the beef to a plate, allowing it to rest while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Carrots
Lower the heat to medium and add diced yellow onions and chopped carrots to the rendered bacon fat, cooking for 5–6 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize. Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base for the Classic Beef Bourguignon.

Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Flour
Mix in a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste and all-purpose flour, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to cook the flour and enhance the flavors. The mixture will thicken slightly; this will help create a rich sauce when you deglaze the pot. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added depth.

Step 5: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in about 2 cups of Burgundy wine and bring it to a gentle simmer while scraping the fond off the bottom of the pot, about 3–4 minutes. This process will lift the intense flavors and aromas, making the base irresistible. Let the wine reduce slightly before moving onto the next step.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Pour in beef stock and stir in the Better than Bouillon beef bouillon. Add the browned beef and cooked bacon back to the pot, along with fresh thyme and bay leaves for herbal fragrance. Give everything a good stir to ensure the beef is submerged, setting the stage for a flavorful braise.

Step 7: Bake in the Oven
Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 2.5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. After this time, the beef should be tender and infused with the rich sauce. The aroma will be breathtaking as it fills your kitchen.

Step 8: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions
Remove the pot from the oven and carefully stir in sautéed cremini mushrooms and frozen pearl onions. Return the pot to the oven and bake it uncovered for another 45–60 minutes, letting everything meld together further until the beef is tender and the sauce is thickened to perfection.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let the Classic Beef Bourguignon rest for 30 minutes with the lid on. This allows the flavors to settle and enhances the dish’s overall depth. When ready to serve, gently reheat if needed, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own! With delightful twists and substitutions, you can create your own signature version that everyone at the table will love.

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch for a thick, satisfying sauce without gluten. You won’t miss the wheat one bit!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap beef for hearty mushrooms like portobello or a mix of your favorites, and use vegetable stock. Your meatless guests will rejoice.
Add Root Veggies: Incorporate potatoes, turnips, or parsnips for deeper textures and flavors. These additions create even more comfort in your cozy stew.
Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Turn up the excitement and awaken your taste buds!
Wine Alternatives: If you don’t have Burgundy, any bold red wine, like Shiraz or Merlot, will work wonders in enhancing the flavors. Your kitchen will still smell divine!
Herb Enhancements: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano for a fragrant twist. They can elevate the dish further and add an unexpected flair to the classic.
Bean Boosts: Incorporate cooked beans, like canellini or black beans, to enrich the stew while making it heartier. It’ll be a protein-packed delight!
Creamy Version: Blend in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving to indulge in a richer, velvety finish. This twist adds an extra layer of luxuriousness!

With all these variations, you’re sure to create a Classic Beef Bourguignon that feels uniquely yours and has everyone asking for seconds! Need more inspiration? Try it with Ground Beef Dumplings or explore a delightful twist with BBQ Beef Tacos to mix things up even further.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Beef Bourguignon preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop all your vegetables (onions, carrots, mushrooms) and store them in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, searing and browning the beef may be done 24 hours ahead; just cool the pieces and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. To maintain the quality of your stew, cool the dish completely before refrigerating or freezing. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the beef bourguignon gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef stock if needed to loosen the sauce, and you’ll enjoy the same rich flavors with minimal effort.

How to Store and Freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon

Fridge: Store your Classic Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container for up to 6 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to preserve texture and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water as needed to restore its creamy consistency.

Serving Tips: For best results, consider reheating until just warmed through; this preserves the rich flavor and keeps your Classic Beef Bourguignon delicious!

What to Serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich decadence of this French stew.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of creamy mashed potatoes pairs perfectly, soaking up the rich sauce for a comforting bite.
Crusty French Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread not only adds texture but also serves as the ideal vessel for savoring every drop of luscious sauce.
Butter-Braised Green Beans: Fresh green beans, lightly sautéed in butter, provide a crisp contrast to the tender beef while adding a splash of color to your plate.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs creates a subtle backdrop, allowing the bold flavors of the bourguignon to shine.
Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes introduces sweetness and earthiness that harmonizes beautifully with the stew.
Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich and airy dark chocolate mousse adds a touch of indulgence, finishing your meal with a sweet note that balances the savory dish.
Cabernet Sauvignon: This full-bodied red wine echoes the wine used in the recipe, enhancing the overall dining experience and heightening the palate’s delight.

Expert Tips for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Use a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven is highly recommended for even cooking and superior flavor infusion in your Classic Beef Bourguignon.
Sear the Beef Well: Make sure the beef is browned on all sides; this step creates the rich, deep flavors essential for a standout dish.
Let it Rest: Always allow the dish to rest for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps the flavors meld beautifully and enhances the overall taste.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add broth; if too thin, thicken with a cornstarch slurry, especially for a gluten-free outcome.
Wine Selection Matters: Choose a good quality Burgundy wine or another bold red for deglazing; it significantly impacts the depth of flavor you achieve.

Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Classic Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! For the best results, select ripe vegetables; look for firm, vibrant carrots and onions with smooth skin. When it comes to beef, choose cuts labeled as “chuck” with good marbling for tenderness. Avoid any with dark spots or excessive liquid in the packaging.

What is the best way to store Classic Beef Bourguignon?
Very! Allow your flavorful stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 6 days. To store it longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, leaving some space for expansion.

Can I freeze Classic Beef Bourguignon, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your beef bourguignon cool entirely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring you leave some headspace at the top. Label with the date. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth as needed to restore its rich sauce.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for Classic Beef Bourguignon?
If your sauce seems too thin, don’t fret! You can create a quick cornstarch slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, stirring it into the simmering stew until it thickens. On the other hand, if it’s too thick, simply add a bit of beef stock or water until you reach the desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for Classic Beef Bourguignon?
Very! This dish is naturally gluten-free if you substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch. Always ensure to check that your broth and other packaged ingredients are gluten-free, as some brands may have added gluten. If serving to pets, be cautious about the onions and garlic in this recipe, as they can be harmful to dogs.

How can I make Classic Beef Bourguignon more nutritious?
I often recommend incorporating other vegetables like chopped potatoes or peas to up the nutrition! Just add them in during the last hour of cooking for optimal texture. This not only enhances the dish’s nutritional value but also adds delightful variety to the flavors and textures.