Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a recipe that will warm your heart and fill your home with delicious aromas, this classic beef bourguignon recipe is just what you need! It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering. The tender beef in a rich apple vinegar sauce is not only comforting but also full of flavor—perfect for impressing your loved ones or treating yourself to something special.

What makes this recipe even better is its ability to transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become one of your favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The combination of tender beef and savory vegetables creates a dish that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have more time to enjoy the company of your guests.
• Perfect for make-ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will relish every bite of this hearty stew.
• Versatile options: You can easily adapt the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You may already have many of these staples in your kitchen!

For the Beef Stew

• 5 strips bacon, cut into 1 pieces
• 3 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2 pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups Burgundy apple vinegar, or other bold apple vinegar
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon beef bouillon
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves, dried or fresh
• 10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
• Kosher salt
• Freshly cracked pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this classic beef bourguignon recipe is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter option while keeping the flavors intact.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some potatoes or green beans for an extra dose of nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
• Use different herbs: Experiment with rosemary or parsley to give it your unique twist.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 F. This ensures that your beef bourguignon cooks evenly and thoroughly in the oven.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Place the chopped bacon into your 5 qt Dutch oven over medium-low heat. As it cooks, the fat slowly renders out, which adds great flavor to the dish. Stir occasionally until it’s browned and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside in a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season those lovely cubes of beef generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Increase the heat on your Dutch oven to medium-high and sear each piece until they’re beautifully browned on all sides. This step locks in those delicious juices! If necessary, do this in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan. Once seared, remove them from the pot.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot. Next up, toss in those chopped onions and carrots; sauté them for about 2-3 minutes while stirring often. Adding garlic after that gives it an aromatic kick—cook for another minute! Then stir in tomato paste until it darkens slightly—this brings out its rich flavor. Finally, sprinkle flour over everything and cook for another few minutes; this helps thicken up our sauce later.

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in that tangy apple vinegar next! Use a silicone spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom—this is where all that flavor lives! Then add in beef stock and bouillon; let it come to a simmer. Now return that beautiful beef and crispy bacon back into the pot along with thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Cover it up tightly and transfer it all into your preheated oven for about 2 1/2 hours!

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

At around the 2 1/2 hour mark, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once bubbling, add quartered mushrooms and cook until they turn golden brown—yum! Then toss in defrosted pearl onions; let them cook until they’re browned as well before seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Once that heavenly aroma fills your kitchen from cooking, carefully take out your Dutch oven from the oven! Add those sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions right into your stew. Pop it back in until everything is meltingly tender—this should take another 45-60 minutes. When done, cover it again for about half an hour before serving so those flavors meld beautifully!

And there you have it—a classic beef bourguignon recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Cooking a classic beef bourguignon can be a delightful experience, and with these helpful tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use high-quality beef – Choosing a well-marbled chuck roast not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that your meat becomes tender and succulent during slow cooking.

• Don’t rush the browning process – Taking the time to properly brown both the bacon and beef creates a depth of flavor that’s essential for a rich bourguignon. This caramelization adds complexity to the overall taste.

• Let it rest – Allowing your beef bourguignon to sit covered for about 30 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more robust and satisfying dish.

• Experiment with herbs – While thyme and bay leaves are traditional, feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or parsley for an extra layer of flavor that can personalize your dish.

• Make it ahead – This dish actually tastes even better the next day! Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop fully, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or entertaining.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Presenting your classic beef bourguignon in an inviting way can make all the difference at the dinner table. Here are some ideas for serving this hearty dish that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley – A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a fresh taste that complements the rich sauce perfectly.
• Crusty bread slices – Serving slices of crusty bread not only looks appealing but also provides a practical way for guests to soak up all that delicious sauce!

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes – The smooth texture of creamy mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with beef bourguignon, soaking up every bit of sauce while adding comfort to your meal.

• Green beans almondine – With their crunchy texture and nutty flavor, sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds create a lovely contrast to the rich beef stew.

• Herbed rice pilaf – Fluffy rice cooked with aromatic herbs makes for a great foundation under your beef bourguignon. It absorbs flavors nicely while adding an elegant touch.

• Roasted root vegetables – Seasonal roasted root vegetables bring sweetness and earthiness to your plate, balancing out the savory notes of your main dish beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy this classic beef bourguignon recipe in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe is not only perfect for impressing guests but also excellent for meal prep. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks ahead.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef bourguignon to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the beef bourguignon into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, transfer to a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What is a Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

A Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe features tender beef simmered in a rich apple vinegar sauce with vegetables and herbs. It’s a beloved French dish known for its deep flavors and comforting qualities.

Can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe without bacon?

Yes! You can omit the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative to suit your dietary preferences while still achieving a rich flavor.

How long does it take to cook the Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

The total cooking time for this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is around 3.5 hours, including both oven time and preparation.

What can I serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Classic Beef Bourguignon pairs beautifully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttery noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night at home. Remember, great meals are made with love, so don’t hesitate to add your personal touch. Happy cooking!