Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly, this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is just what you need. The rich flavors of tender beef simmered in a luscious apple vinegar sauce create a meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, and trust me, it will impress your loved ones without all the fuss.

This recipe has been a favorite of mine for years. It’s not only delicious but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma as it cooks away in the oven. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting friends over the weekend, this classic dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich flavor: The apple vinegar brings depth to the dish, creating layers of taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the hearty beef and flavorful sauce, making it perfect for family gatherings.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time and let it simmer while you focus on other tasks.
• Comforting warmth: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of beef bourguignon to chase away the chill on a cold day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes this recipe so enjoyable. You likely have most of these staples in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

• 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 its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking to lighten things up, try using chicken thighs or even hearty vegetables like eggplant for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the veggies: Add potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness; they soak up all those delicious flavors beautifully.
• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley if you’re in the mood for something new!
• Thicken it up: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered at the end until it reaches your desired consistency.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for slow cooking. A hot oven will help develop those deep flavors we crave in our bourguignon.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Start by adding your chopped bacon to a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Cook until it’s browned and crisp. This step adds not only flavor but also fat that helps season our beef. Once done, remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Now it’s time to get that beautiful color on your beef! Season those cubes generously with kosher salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and sear them in batches if necessary until they are browned all over. This caramelization is where much of the flavor comes from!

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Reduce heat back to medium and add two tablespoons of butter into the pot. Toss in your chopped onions and carrots; sauté them for about three minutes until they start softening. Then add garlic and cook for another minute before mixing in tomato paste. Stir continuously until everything darkens slightly; this enhances their natural sweetness!

Step 5: Add Apple Vinegar and Stock

Pour that bold apple vinegar into your pot! Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any lovely browned bits stuck at the bottom—those bits are pure flavor magic! Then add in beef stock and bouillon before returning your bacon and seared beef along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover it up tightly and let it bake away in your preheated oven for about two-and-a-half hours.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

When you’re nearing that two-and-a-half-hour mark, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in quartered mushrooms until golden brown; then add pearl onions until they get nice color too! Season lightly with salt and pepper—these beauties will add texture!

Step 7: Final Baking

Take your Dutch oven out of the oven after that long cooking time has passed! Now stir in those mushrooms and pearl onions before returning everything back into the oven for another forty-five minutes to an hour until everything becomes fall-apart tender. Allow resting covered for thirty minutes before serving—it lets those flavors meld together beautifully!

Enjoy every bite of this classic dish that’s sure to warm hearts around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Cooking this classic beef bourguignon recipe can be a delightful experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right cut of beef – Opt for chuck roast as it becomes tender during the long cooking process and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

• Brown the meat in batches – This prevents overcrowding in the pot, allowing for proper caramelization and deeper flavors that make your beef bourguignon truly stand out.

• Let the flavors meld – After cooking, allow the dish to sit covered for 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps all the flavors to develop further, making each bite even more delicious.

• Use fresh herbs – Fresh thyme and bay leaves bring an aromatic quality that dried herbs simply can’t match. They elevate the dish’s overall taste profile.

• Adjust seasoning at the end – Taste your beef bourguignon after cooking and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned to your preference.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Presenting your classic beef bourguignon can be just as enjoyable as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley – A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a fresh touch and visual appeal to your dish.
• Thyme sprigs – A couple of sprigs placed on top not only look beautiful but also enhance the herby aroma of your delicious creation.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The buttery, fluffy texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce of beef bourguignon, allowing you to savor every last drop.

• Crusty French Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all that flavorful sauce. It’s an essential side that adds a comforting touch.

• Garlic Roasted Green Beans – These bright green beans add a pop of color and a crunchy contrast to the tender beef, making for a balanced plate.

• Simple Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to this hearty dish while adding a nutritious element to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your classic beef bourguignon will not only taste fantastic but also impress everyone at the table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes even better the next day but also makes for a hearty dish to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef bourguignon to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What is a Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

A classic beef bourguignon recipe is a traditional French stew featuring tender beef simmered in a rich sauce made with apple vinegar, vegetables, and herbs. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe without wine?

Absolutely! This recipe uses bold apple vinegar instead of wine, making it a great alternative while still delivering rich flavor.

How long does it take to make Classic Beef Bourguignon?

The total time for this classic beef bourguignon recipe is approximately 240 minutes, including preparation and cooking. The slow cooking process helps develop deep flavors and tender meat.

What can I serve with Classic Beef Bourguignon?

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles. A side of steamed green beans or a simple salad complements it well too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this classic beef bourguignon recipe! It’s not just about the cooking process; it’s about gathering around the table with loved ones and relishing each bite of this comforting dish. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, I’m excited for you to try it out. Happy cooking!