Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender pieces of beef simmering in a rich, flavorful apple vinegar sauce, filling your home with the wonderful aroma of French cuisine. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for cozy family dinners or festive celebrations.

This dish holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lovely Sunday gathering, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of apple vinegar, fresh herbs, and tender beef creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Comforting Dish: It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out—perfect for chilly nights!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance, making it an excellent choice for entertaining guests.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love it! The hearty flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find this recipe enjoyable to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! They come together beautifully to create a dish that feels fancy yet homey. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Finish

• 10 oz frozen pearl onions, defrosted and drained
• 16 oz cremini mushrooms, quartered
• kosher salt
• freshly cracked pepper

Variations

This Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs instead of beef for a lighter version while keeping those rich flavors intact.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced potatoes or turnips for added texture and nutrition.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to give your dish a unique twist.
• Spice it up: A dash of red pepper flakes can add just the right amount of heat if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 F. This step ensures that your beef bourguignon cooks evenly throughout its long simmering time.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

In your trusty 5 qt Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon over medium-low heat. Cook until it’s nicely browned and has released its fat. This adds incredible flavor to your base. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Now it’s time for flavor! Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper before increasing the heat to medium-high. Sear them on all sides until they’re beautifully browned. Browning adds depth to your dish’s flavor profile, so don’t skip this step! After searing, remove them from the pot.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat back down to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pot. Add in your chopped onions and carrots, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they start softening. Next comes garlic; adding it now allows its sweetness to bloom before mixing in tomato paste—cook until it’s darkened slightly. Finally, sprinkle flour over everything and stir well; cooking this mixture helps thicken your sauce later.

Step 5: Add the Apple Vinegar and Stock

Pour in that delicious apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits—this is where tons of flavor lies! Then add beef stock and bouillon, bringing everything to a gentle simmer before returning both beef and bacon back into the pot along with thyme and bay leaves. Cover and transfer to your preheated oven for about 2 ½ hours so all those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

Around two hours into cooking, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown those mushrooms until they’re golden, then toss in pearl onions—cook until they too are nicely browned and season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Final Touches

Once your bourguignon has cooked through, gently mix in those sautéed mushrooms and onion mixture back into your pot. Return it all to the oven for another 45-60 minutes until everything is incredibly tender. Once done, let it rest covered for about half an hour—it helps develop even more flavor!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Classic Beef Bourguignon ready to be enjoyed! Serve with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Making a classic beef bourguignon is a wonderful culinary adventure, and following these tips will ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose Quality Meat: Opting for high-quality beef chuck makes a significant difference in texture and flavor. Well-marbled meat will become tender and flavorful as it slowly cooks.

• Don’t Rush the Searing: Searing the beef properly creates a beautiful crust that adds depth to the dish. Take your time and ensure each piece is browned, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves can elevate the dish’s aroma and taste. Dried herbs work, but fresh ones bring a vibrant flavor that can significantly improve your bourguignon.

• Let it Rest: After cooking, allowing the beef bourguignon to rest covered for 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully. This step also ensures a more tender bite when served.

• Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Tasting just before serving allows you to adjust the seasoning. A pinch more salt or pepper can make all the difference in achieving that perfect balance of flavors.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

This hearty dish deserves to be presented beautifully, reflecting its rich French heritage. Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve your classic beef bourguignon!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Zest of Lemon: A light sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving gives a bright note that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that soaks up all the delicious sauce from your bourguignon.
• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the savory sauce, adding a satisfying crunch alongside each tender bite.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans offer a fresh contrast to the rich stew, balancing out your meal with their vibrant color and crunch.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and potatoes brings sweetness and earthiness to your plate, perfectly complementing the deep flavors of beef bourguignon.

Enjoy this classic dish with friends or family, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty and flavorful dish throughout the week. With its rich flavors developing over time, it only gets better after a day in the fridge!

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

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out the beef bourguignon into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this classic beef bourguignon recipe that might help you.

Can I use other types of vinegar instead of apple vinegar in this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

While apple vinegar adds a nice flavor profile, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or a mild white vinegar if necessary. Just keep in mind that it may alter the taste slightly.

How can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe more nutritious?

You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for added nutrition. Also, consider using low-sodium beef stock to reduce sodium content while maintaining flavor.

Can I make this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe without using bacon?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based alternative for added flavor without using animal products.

How long does it take to prepare this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 240 minutes, including both preparation and cooking time. It is well worth the wait!

Final Thoughts

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. The tender beef and rich flavors will surely impress your family and friends. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your own twist on this timeless recipe—happy cooking!