How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Perfectly

There’s something truly special about a hearty, slow-cooked meal that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Classic Beef Bourguignon, a dish that’s perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. This French-inspired stew is packed with tender beef, rich flavors, and a depth that will leave everyone at the table wanting more. Plus, it’s a great addition to your collection of fall recipes and winter food ideas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A hearty, comforting dish perfect for cooler weather
• Rich, deep flavors from red wine and slow cooking
• Tender beef that falls apart easily
• Can be made ahead for easy entertaining
• Pairs beautifully with crusty bread or mashed potatoes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Beef Bourguignon Recipe:

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious dish. It’s a bit of a process, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will be your best friend for slow-cooking the bourguignon to perfection.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Add the chopped bacon to your Dutch oven and cook over medium-low heat until browned. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. This step adds a smoky, savory flavor that’s essential to the dish.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and sear the beef on all sides until browned. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pot. Remove the beef and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the onions and carrots for 2-3 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it darkens in color. Sprinkle the flour over the top and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 5: Add Wine, Stock, and Herbs

Add the red wine to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the beef stock and bouillon, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the beef and bacon to the pot, along with the thyme and bay leaves. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 1/2 hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

While the bourguignon is cooking, melt the remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until browned, then add the pearl onions and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Remove the pot from the oven and stir in the mushrooms and onions. Return the pot to the oven and cook for another 45-60 minutes, until the beef is very tender. Remove the pot from the oven, cover it, and let it rest for 30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a high-quality red wine for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the step of browning the bacon and beef—it adds depth to the dish.
• Let the bourguignon rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Consider making this dish a day ahead for even better flavor.

How to Serve

This Bourguignon Recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a hearty meal.
• Offer crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich broth.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for making ahead. Cool it completely, then refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more broth if needed.

There you have it—my take on the classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe! It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, especially during the fall and winter months. If you’re looking for more fall dinner ideas or beef dishes to try, be sure to check out my recipes for Carne Guisada, Salisbury Steak, and Ground Beef Stroganoff. Happy cooking!