Beef Bourguignon is a rich and flavorful French classic made with tender chunks of beef slow-cooked, herbs, and vegetables. This dish is an indulgent and comforting meal that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a gourmet dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Bourguignon is a hearty and luxurious dish with deep, complex flavors that develop over hours of slow cooking. The tender beef absorbs the rich, while the mushrooms, carrots, and onions add layers of texture and taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a family feast, this dish will take your cooking to the next level with its deliciously comforting and sophisticated profile.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
1/2 pound small mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup pearl onions, peeled (or frozen pearl onions)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown the beef in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set it aside.
In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion and carrots. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Return the beef to the pot and pour , scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.
In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and pearl onions, and cook for 7-8 minutes, until browned and softened. Add the mushrooms and onions to the pot with the beef during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a tablespoon of flour and simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Remove the bay leaf, taste for seasoning, and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 3.5 hours

Variations

Add Beef: For an extra layer of flavor, add a few strips of crispye beef when sautéing the onions and carrots.
Vegetable Add-ins: You can add additional vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or celery to make the dish even heartier.
Slow Cooker Option: For convenience, after browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the beef Bourguignon on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave in a microwave-safe container. You may need to add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

What is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French stew made with beef, red wine, and vegetables. The beef is slowly braised in the wine and broth mixture, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Beef chuck is ideal for this dish because it’s well-suited for slow cooking, but you can also use other cuts like round or brisket. Just ensure they have enough fat to keep the meat moist during the cooking process.

Can I make Beef Bourguignon in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.

Can I use store-bought broth?

Yes, you can use store-bought beef broth for convenience, but homemade broth will give the dish an even richer flavor. If using store-bought, opt for a low-sodium version to control the saltiness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, Beef Bourguignon actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch. Let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to reach your desired consistency.

Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon?

Yes, you can freeze Beef Bourguignon for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop.

What sides go well with Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon is best served with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Beef Bourguignon is the epitome of comfort food with its rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tender beef. Perfect for a special dinner or a cozy meal at home, this French classic is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to sit at your table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a family gathering, this dish will never disappoint!

Jane

Beef Bourguignon