Classic Beef Bourguignon: A Rich Comfort Food Delight

Name: Classic Beef Bourguignon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes; 2 cups dry red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir); 4 medium carrots, sliced; 2 large yellow onions, chopped; 8 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme); 2 bay leaves; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: July 17, 2025

by Molly white

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Classic Beef Bourguignon is easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests.
The flavor profile is rich with deep notes from the wine and herbs.
Visually appealing with its colorful medley of vegetables, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
This dish is versatile enough for cozy family meals or festive gatherings.

Ingredients for Classic Beef Bourguignon

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Beef Chuck Roast: Select a well-marbled cut for maximum tenderness and flavor as it slow-cooks.
Red Wine: Use a good quality dry red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir; it greatly enhances the dish’s flavor.
Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add sweetness and texture; don’t skimp on these colorful gems.
Yellow Onions: Use sweet yellow onions for their mild flavor that caramelizes beautifully in this dish.
Mushrooms: Choose cremini or button mushrooms; they absorb flavors wonderfully while adding earthy depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic intensity; crush them before adding to release their essential oils.
Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs impart a fragrant touch; dried thyme works too if fresh isn’t available.
Bay Leaves: Essential for layering flavors; remove them before serving as they can be quite tough.
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing richness in the stew.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Classic Beef Bourguignon

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by cutting your beef chuck roast into large chunks (about two inches). Season generously with salt and pepper. Chop your carrots, onions, and mushrooms so they’re ready to join the beef party later.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned beef chunks in batches. Sear until browned on all sides, which takes about five minutes per batch. Remove browned beef from pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in your chopped onions and cook until soft (about five minutes). Add garlic and cook until fragrant (around one minute). Then add your carrots and mushrooms, stirring occasionally until everything is well-coated with those delightful flavors.

Step 4: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour in a generous splash of red wine (about two cups) into the pot. Scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom as you bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about five minutes this is where magic happens!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return your seared beef to the pot along with thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and enough beef broth to cover everything (about four cups). Bring everything back up to a gentle simmer before covering.

Step 6: Slow-Cook to Perfection

Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently on the stove or transfer it to an oven preheated at 350°F (175°C). Cook for about two hours until the beef is fork-tender your patience will pay off!

Once ready, serve this Classic Beef Bourguignon over mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for an irresistible meal.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch your taste buds will thank you!

You Must Know

This Classic Beef Bourguignon recipe offers a taste of French culinary magic and is perfect for impressing guests, warming up on chilly nights, or simply indulging yourself.
Rich flavors and tender beef make it an unforgettable dish that tells a story with every bite.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the beef until it’s beautifully browned. While that sizzles, chop your veggies and prep your herbs. Once the meat has that irresistible crust, toss in the aromatics and let them mingle before adding wine and broth.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this Classic Beef Bourguignon! Swap red wine for a robust stout, add mushrooms for umami goodness, or throw in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate those flavors even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Classic Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to keep that rich flavor intact; microwaving might leave you with sad leftovers.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use high-quality beef to ensure tenderness; chuck roast works best.
Don’t rush the searing process; let it caramelize properly for depth of flavor.
Allow the dish to rest after cooking; the flavors meld beautifully during this time.

I remember the first time I made Classic Beef Bourguignon for my friends. They were so impressed that they insisted I open a restaurant little did they know my cooking skills stop right at my kitchen door!

FAQs:

What is Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Classic Beef Bourguignon is a traditional French stew made with beef braised in red wine, typically Burgundy. This dish features tender chunks of beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich sauce that develops from slow cooking. delicious braised spring rolls The slow braising process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to prepare Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Preparing Classic Beef Bourguignon usually takes about 30 minutes of active prep time, followed by approximately 3 hours of cooking. The long cooking time is essential for achieving tender meat and deep flavors. It’s worth the wait, as this classic dish yields a hearty meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Can I make Classic Beef Bourguignon ahead of time?

Absolutely! Classic Beef Bourguignon actually tastes better when made a day in advance. Allow the stew to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven until warmed through.

What should I serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon with crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also enjoy it alongside steamed green beans or a simple green salad for added freshness. These side dishes will enhance the overall dining experience and complement the rich flavors of the stew.

Conclusion for Classic Beef Bourguignon:

In summary, Classic Beef Bourguignon is a timeless dish that showcases the art of French cooking. With its rich flavors and tender meat, this stew brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Remember to allow plenty of time for braising to achieve optimal results. comforting lentil soup Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

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