Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this classic beef bourguignon recipe is just the ticket! Imagine tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich apple vinegar sauce, infused with the flavors of garlic, thyme, and earthy mushrooms. It’s one of those recipes that transforms an ordinary day into something special, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.

This dish is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone just starting out, you’ll find joy in creating this comforting meal. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights when you want to impress without stress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of apple vinegar and fresh herbs creates a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for Gathering: This hearty dish serves six, making it ideal for family meals or dinner parties with friends.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight—it’s even better the next day!
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to play around with ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this classic beef bourguignon recipe, you’ll need some simple yet wholesome ingredients that combine beautifully to create comfort food magic.

For the 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 according to your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter version that’s equally delicious.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped potatoes or parsnips for added texture and nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken your sauce.
• Experiment with herbs: If you don’t have thyme on hand, rosemary can also add a lovely flavor twist.

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for slow cooking and allows all those wonderful flavors to develop beautifully as they meld together.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

Add your chopped bacon to a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Cook until it’s browned and crispy, stirring occasionally. This step not only adds flavor but also gives you some delicious bacon fat that will enrich your stew. Once done, set the bacon aside in a small bowl.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Season your cubes of beef with kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and sear them in batches until browned on all sides. This browning process locks in juices and enhances the overall flavor profile of your bourguignon.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium. In the same pot, add two tablespoons of butter followed by your chopped onions and carrots. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they start softening—this brings out their natural sweetness! Add minced garlic next, cooking for another minute before stirring in tomato paste followed by flour. Cooking these ingredients together helps build a rich base for your sauce.

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in your bold apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—it’s where all that flavor lives! Then add your beef stock along with bouillon; bring it all to a gentle simmer. Return both beef and bacon back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover it up tight and pop it into your preheated oven for about 2½ hours.

Step 6: Incorporate Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

When there’s about half an hour left on cooking time, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add quartered mushrooms first until they brown nicely before tossing in pearl onions. Season these with salt and pepper as they sauté for about five minutes—this step elevates their taste even further!

Step 7: Final Touches

Take out your dutch oven from the oven after two-and-a-half hours (it should smell heavenly!). Add those sautéed mushrooms and pearl onions before returning everything back into the oven for another 45-60 minutes until everything is super tender. Let it rest covered for at least half an hour before serving; this waiting period lets flavors deepen even more!

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful classic beef bourguignon recipe—a true showstopper that brings everyone together around the table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Creating the perfect beef bourguignon can be a delightful culinary adventure! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out spectacularly.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using beef chuck is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful during the long cooking process. Avoid lean cuts, as they may dry out.

• Don’t rush the browning: Searing the beef and vegetables properly enhances the depth of flavor in your dish. Take your time and let them develop a rich, golden color.

• Use high-quality vinegar: The apple vinegar is key to achieving that signature tangy flavor. Opt for a bold, flavorful apple vinegar that complements the richness of the beef.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your beef bourguignon to sit covered for 30 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully. It also helps with serving as it thickens slightly.

• Make it ahead of time: Beef bourguignon tastes even better the next day! Prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently to let all those wonderful flavors develop further.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Serving your classic beef bourguignon in an appealing way can make your meal feel even more special. Here are some ideas to present this hearty dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Sprigs of thyme: A small sprig of fresh thyme on top not only looks elegant but also reinforces the herbaceous notes from the recipe.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes makes them a perfect canvas for soaking up the delicious sauce from your beef bourguignon.
• Crusty French bread: Serve slices of warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich sauce. It’s an irresistible addition!
• Roasted root vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, parsnips, and turnips brings a sweet earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the savory meat.
• Green salad with vinaigrette: A light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the main dish, offering a refreshing contrast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your classic beef bourguignon will not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on any dining table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the rich flavors to meld together beautifully. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious dish in the days to come.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef bourguignon to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• For best results, try to separate the liquid from the solids if possible.

Freezing

• Portion the beef bourguignon into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To maximize freshness, remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of beef stock or water if necessary.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this classic dish!

Can I use other types of vinegar for this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

Absolutely! While apple vinegar gives this recipe a unique flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different twist.

How do I know when my Classic Beef Bourguignon is done?

Your beef bourguignon is ready when the meat is fork-tender and has absorbed all those lovely flavors. This usually takes about 3-4 hours of cooking time total.

Can I add vegetables other than mushrooms and pearl onions?

Definitely! Feel free to add more root vegetables like potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness. Just be sure to add them at the right time to ensure they cook perfectly.

What should I serve with my Beef Bourguignon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The sauce is rich and flavorful, making it delightful with any side!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this classic beef bourguignon recipe as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort into your home, especially during cozy evenings or festive celebrations. Don’t hesitate to share your experience after making it—I would love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!