If you are looking to impress with a classic French masterpiece, the Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) Recipe is the ultimate comfort dish that transforms simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful, rich stew that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Succulent, tender chunks of beef bathed in a luscious red wine sauce, infused with fresh thyme, caramelized bacon, mushrooms, and pearl onions, come together in a slow-cooked symphony of aromas and textures that make every bite unforgettable. This recipe is a celebration of patience, love, and pure culinary joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
As you dive into this recipe, you’ll find the list of ingredients refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the iconic layers of flavor and texture that make Beef Bourguignon so special. From the robust beef chuck to the earthy mushrooms and silky pearl onions, every component enhances this dish in its own brilliant way.
- 3 lbs. boneless beef chuck: The hearty, tender foundation of the stew that absorbs all the rich flavors.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect luxurious consistency.
- 8 slices bacon: Adds smoky depth and fat to enhance richness.
- 1 tbsp canola oil: For searing the beef to lock in juices and color.
- 5 carrots: Provide sweetness and vibrant color, sliced into chunky pieces.
- 1 large yellow onion: Adds savory aroma and texture.
- 4 cloves garlic (divided): Infuse the stew with a subtle, fragrant warmth.
- 750 ml red wine (Pinot Noir or Cote du Rhone): The star ingredient that imparts deep, complex flavor.
- ½ cup cognac: Adds a beautiful richness and slight sweetness.
- 2 cups beef broth: Provides body and moisture to the stew.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: Boosts color and umami depth.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried): A herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle earthiness and background flavor.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: For sautéing onions and mushrooms to golden perfection.
- 1 lb frozen pearl onions (thawed): Sweet, tender bursts of flavor that complement the stew.
- 1 lb fresh cremini mushrooms: Meaty mushrooms that add color, texture, and depth.
How to Make Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by setting your oven to 325°F. This moderate temperature is key for the slow braising process that allows the beef to become irresistibly tender. While the oven warms, pat the beef dry and season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper — this seasoning is the first layer of flavor that makes the beef shine.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Sear the Beef
Rendering the bacon in your Dutch oven over medium heat releases rich fat that flavors the entire dish. After crisping the bacon, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels. Next, add a touch of canola oil and sear the beef cubes in batches, ensuring every side gets beautifully browned. This caramelized crust is crucial for developing the stew’s signature depth.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the flavorful bacon fat, cook the carrots and diced onion with salt and pepper until they soften and take on a lovely brown hue. Toss in half the minced garlic near the end of sautéing for a fragrant boost. This step builds a savory vegetable base that complements the beef wonderfully.
Step 4: Combine Beef, Vegetables, and Flour
Return the seared beef and bacon to the pot with the vegetables. Sprinkle the flour evenly over everything and stir constantly for about five minutes. This not only lightly toasts the flour but also helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Step 5: Deglaze and Build the Sauce
Pour in the red wine slowly while scraping the bottom of the pot to release all those caramelized bits — that flavor gold! Add the cognac and enough beef broth to nearly cover the meat, infusing the dish with depth and moisture. Stir in tomato paste, thyme leaves, and the bay leaf for that iconic aroma.
Step 6: Slow Braise in the Oven
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover tightly, and place the Dutch oven in the preheated oven. Let the stew braise for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow heat breaks down the beef fibers, making the meat tender and the flavors harmoniously melded.
Step 7: Prepare Pearl Onions and Mushrooms
While the beef luxuriates in the oven, sauté the thawed pearl onions in butter until golden on all sides. Then add remaining butter, cremini mushrooms, and the rest of the minced garlic. Cook everything until beautifully browned and fragrant. This mixture will add layers of texture and earthy flavor when folded into the stew.
Step 8: Final Combination and Simmer
Once the beef is fork-tender, transfer the pot back to the stove, remove the lid, and bring the stew to a boil. Stir in the onion and mushroom mixture, then reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 15 minutes. This finishing step melds all components into a rich, cohesive, and silky sauce. Don’t forget to discard the bay leaf before serving.
How to Serve Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance this already dazzling dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few thyme sprigs to add a fresh herbal brightness that contrasts the stew’s richness beautifully. A light garnish does wonders to brighten each hearty bowl.
Side Dishes
Traditional mashed potatoes or soft egg noodles are perfect companions to soak up the luscious sauce. Alternatively, crusty French bread is a wonderful way to scoop up every bit of this flavorful stew. Roasted green beans or a simple green salad can provide a crisp counterpoint to the dense, meaty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the beef Bourguignon in individual rustic ramekins or deep bowls with a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes crowning the stew. You might also present it atop a pillow of buttery polenta, adding a delightful twist to this classic. Inviting your guests to twirl egg noodles underneath adds an interactive, cozy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to marry. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy a quick and indulgent meal anytime during the week.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead or save some for a later date, it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a suitable freezer-safe container. It will keep up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a convenient, soul-warming dinner.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it. This ensures every bite remains as luscious and tender as when it was first cooked.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While boneless beef chuck is ideal for its balance of tenderness and fat, other cuts like brisket or short ribs will also work but may require slightly different cooking times for perfect tenderness.
Do I have to use red wine in the Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) Recipe?
Red wine is key to the characteristic flavor of Beef Bourguignon; however, if you prefer not to use alcohol, a rich grape juice or beef broth combined with a splash of balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the beef and cooking the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, then add mushrooms and onions toward the end to prevent overcooking.
What wine pairs best when serving Beef Bourguignon?
Since this stew is made with red wine, serving it alongside a glass of Pinot Noir or Cote du Rhone complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering the dish.
How thick should the sauce be when the dish is done?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still have enough fluidity to gently pool on your plate or bowl. The slow cooking and flour help achieve this perfect, velvety consistency.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying this Beef Bourguignon (Beef Burgundy) Recipe the next time you want to spoil yourself or loved ones with something truly special. It may take a little time, but the result is a soul-satisfying stew bursting with flavor, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Once you make it, it will become one of those treasured dishes you turn to again and again, bonding over food and the joy it brings.
