As I stirred the bubbling pot of Beef Bourguignon, the rich aroma of red wine and herbs filled my kitchen, transporting me straight to the heart of France. This classic French dish combines tender beef, smoky bacon, and earthy mushrooms, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for cozy weekends and impressive enough for dinner guests. With its simplified approach, this Beef Bourguignon not only delivers gourmet flavors effortlessly but also gives you the flexibility to prepare it in a slow cooker or pressure cooker. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just on a mission to escape fast food, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and warm your heart. Ready to elevate your cooking game and impress your loved ones with a soul-soothing stew? Let’s dive in!

Why is Beef Bourguignon so beloved?

Comforting, Homestyle Flavor: This Beef Bourguignon is a hug in a bowl, with every bite offering deep, rich flavors that feel like a warm embrace.
Simplified Preparation: The recipe is stripped down for ease, ensuring that even beginner cooks can create a masterpiece without stress.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy the option of preparing it in a slow cooker or pressure cooker, fitting seamlessly into any schedule. For a classic approach, check out my tips on Crockpot Beef Short.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress family and friends, leaving everyone craving more.
Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers! This dish freezes beautifully, ensuring a hearty meal is always within reach.
Indulge in culinary delight with this dish, and don’t forget to explore other comforting options like Wine Braised Beef for even more flavor explorations!

Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

For the Base
• Olive Oil – Enhances browning; it’s optional but boosts flavor when searing.
• Bacon (8 slices, thick cut, chopped) – Adds a smoky richness; pancetta makes a great substitute.
• Stewing Beef (3 pounds, cut into 1-inch pieces) – Essential protein; chuck roast provides the best texture.

For the Aromatics
• Onion (1 large, chopped) – Sweetness and depth; shallots can substitute for a milder flavor.
• Carrot (1 large, peeled and roughly chopped) – Adds both sweetness and vibrant color.
• Pearl Onions (1 pound, peeled) – Offers tender bites; chopped regular onion works in a pinch.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with a delightful aroma.

For Flavoring
• Salt (½ teaspoon, or to taste) – Brings out all other flavors beautifully.
• Pepper (½ teaspoon, ground, or to taste) – Adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
• Bay Leaf (1) – Enhances aromatic depth; remember to remove it before serving.
• Thyme (1 tablespoon, fresh) – Fresh herb that elevates the dish; dried thyme can be used (1 teaspoon).

For the Sauce
• Mushrooms (1 pound, chopped) – Brings umami and texture; button or cremini mushrooms work best.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons) – Thickens the sauce; can be replaced with cornstarch for gluten-free diets.
• Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness; it’s optional but recommended.
• Beef Broth (2 cups, low sodium or no added sodium) – Forms the sauce base; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
• Red Wine (3 cups) – A key ingredient for depth of flavor; choose a Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon you enjoy.

Dive into your cooking adventure with this Beef Bourguignon, and remember, the joy is in every simmering moment!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Bourguignon

Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large Dutch oven, heat the pot over medium heat and add the chopped bacon. Sauté the bacon for about 5–7 minutes until it’s crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing it to drain while retaining the bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Brown Beef
In batches, add the stewing beef to the pot, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Sear the beef pieces on all sides for around 5–8 minutes, until they develop a rich brown crust. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside; repeat until all beef is seared to perfection.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onion, carrot, pearl onions, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing their natural sweetness to infuse into the pot, enhancing your Beef Bourguignon’s flavor.

Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Flour
Stir in the chopped mushrooms, letting them cook down for about 3 minutes until they’re tender and reduced in size. Next, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and continue to cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring consistently. This step will create a flavorful base for the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the crisped bacon and browned beef to the pot. Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, red wine, and beef broth. Stir everything until well combined and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, letting the flavors meld together before moving on to the next step.

Step 6: Braise
Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven set at 325°F. Let it braise for 2½ hours, occasionally stirring every hour for even cooking. In the last 30 minutes, remove the lid to allow the sauce to thicken, enriching your Beef Bourguignon with deep, hearty flavors.

Step 7: Serve
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the pot from the oven and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the Beef Bourguignon over creamy mashed potatoes or noodles, allowing the rich sauce to envelop each bite. Revel in the delightful aroma as you serve this comforting dish to friends and family.

Beef Bourguignon Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Beef Bourguignon; there’s a world of delicious possibilities waiting to be explored!

Turkey Bacon: Swap in turkey bacon for a leaner option that still brings smoky flavor.
Shallots: Use shallots instead of onion for a more delicate, sweet taste in your dish.
Cornstarch: For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch to thicken your sauce.
Vegetable Broth: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly twist that’s still packed with flavor.
Pressure Cooker: To save time, prepare your Beef Bourguignon in a pressure cooker by following the same steps but cooking for just 35 minutes.
Add Peas: Brighten up the presentation and flavor by adding green peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and sweetness.
Button Mushrooms: Use button mushrooms for a milder flavor, or experiment with shiitake mushrooms for an umami boost.
Additional Herbs: Throw in fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for an aromatic twist alongside oregano or marjoram in place of thyme.

No matter which variation you choose, your meal is sure to be mouthwateringly delicious. For more heartwarming classics, you might enjoy preparing Ghostly Beef Stew or a comforting batch of Crockpot Beef Short. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Storage Tips for Beef Bourguignon

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Beef Bourguignon freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Make-Ahead: Consider making this dish a day in advance; the flavors continue to develop, creating an even richer Beef Bourguignon experience the next day.

Make Ahead Options

These Beef Bourguignon are absolutely perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and even sear the beef up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepped ingredients separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the entire dish and allow it to cool completely before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the stew gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if necessary to ensure the sauce remains luscious. This way, you’ll enjoy the same rich flavors with minimal effort on those busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Beef Bourguignon

• Pat the Beef Dry: Ensure you pat the stewing beef dry before browning to achieve a deep, flavorful sear without steaming the meat.

• Don’t Rush Browning: Take your time when browning the beef and bacon; this step is crucial for developing rich flavors in your Beef Bourguignon.

• Simmer for Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered on the stovetop for a few minutes after baking.

• Slow Cooker Option: For busy days, brown the beef and bacon first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours.

• Use Quality Wine: Choose a red wine that you enjoy drinking, as this will significantly enhance the flavor of your Beef Bourguignon.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed; every palate is different, and seasoning can elevate your dish!

What to Serve with Simplified Beef Bourguignon

Experience a culinary journey that combines heartwarming dishes to create a full-flavored meal your loved ones will cherish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes soaks up the rich sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight.
Crusty French Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping, fully embracing the comforting flavors of the Beef Bourguignon.
Buttery Green Beans: Freshly steamed green beans add a crisp, vibrant touch, enhancing the meal’s overall presentation and providing a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and nutty flavor perfectly complement the savory richness of the stew, elevating your dining experience.
Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread pairs excellently, allowing you to savor every drop of that luscious sauce while providing a delightful crunch.
Red Wine: Enjoy a glass of the same Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon used in the dish for a beautiful pairing that deepens the flavors.
Chocolate Mousse: Finish off the meal with a luxurious chocolate mousse, offering a velvety texture and a sweet contrast to the savory stew.

Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right beef for Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! The best choice for your Beef Bourguignon is chuck roast, which has the right balance of fat and meat, allowing it to become wonderfully tender during the long cooking process. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin as they can dry out. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even mix in some brisket or short ribs for added flavor.

How should I store leftovers from Beef Bourguignon?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just let it cool before sealing, and ensure it’s stored promptly to keep it fresh. I often recommend leaving some sauce in the container, as it helps maintain moisture and flavor when reheating.

Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon, and if so, how?
Yes, Beef Bourguignon freezes beautifully! To do this, allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. I suggest portioning it out, as this makes reheating easier. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

What if my sauce is too thin after baking?
No worries! If your sauce doesn’t thicken up nicely after the baking time, simply transfer the pot back to the stovetop. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat while stirring. You can thicken it more by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, whisking until smooth, then adding it to the sauce until you reach your desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for Beef Bourguignon?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out the bacon with turkey bacon to reduce fat, or even omit it completely. If anyone has gluten allergies, replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch for thickening. Don’t hesitate to adjust and personalize the recipe to suit your guests’ needs!

Can I adapt this recipe for a slow cooker?
Very! For a slow cooker, first brown the beef and bacon in a skillet to create deeper flavors. Then transfer everything into the slow cooker, along with the sautéed veggies and remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 7-8 hours for a perfectly tender Beef Bourguignon. Just remember to stir it at least once for even cooking!