The inviting scent of simmering beef and rich red wine fills the air, taking me back to cozy evenings spent with family gathered around the table. One dish that effortlessly brings everyone together is Julia Child's timeless Beef Bourguignon. This isn't just comfort food; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to classic French cuisine. With tender, fall-apart chunks of beef bathed in a velvety gravy, it's the kind of meal that transforms even the simplest of ingredients into something extraordinary.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you choose to whip it up in a traditional oven, on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even an Instant Pot, each method yields a dish that’s sure to impress. Gather your loved ones, pour a glass of wine, and let’s dive into the deliciously rich world of Beef Bourguignon—a dish meant for sharing, reminiscing, and creating cherished memories around the table.
Why is Beef Bourguignon a Must-Try?
Unforgettable Flavor: This classic French recipe brings together fragrant herbs, savory beef, and luxurious red wine for an unparalleled taste experience.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the traditional oven, stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, each technique transforms the beef into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for any gathering, this dish is a guaranteed way to impress friends and family at the dinner table.
Simplicity of Ingredients: With just a handful of simple ingredients, each bite delivers complex and rich flavors without fuss.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare a day in advance for flavors to meld beautifully, making it a stress-free option for busy evenings or special occasions.
Comforting and Cozy: The aroma of Beef Bourguignon bubbling away captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food, inviting everyone to relish this delightful meal together.
Beef Bourguignon Ingredients
For the Stew
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Provides rich flavor and serves as the cooking fat.
- Bacon (6 ounces) – Adds smokiness and depth; can substitute with pancetta for a different flavor.
- Beef brisket, chuck steak, or stewing beef (3 pounds) – The main protein, cut into 2-inch chunks; brisket is preferred for tenderness.
- Carrot (1 large) – Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
- White onion (1 large) – Foundation for flavor; can substitute with yellow onion.
- Garlic (6 cloves, divided) – Provides aroma and depth; reserve some for later mushroom preparation.
- Coarse salt & ground pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings; adjust according to preference.
- Flour (2 tablespoons) – Thickens the sauce; gluten-free flour can be used if necessary.
- Pearl onions (12, optional) – Adds a gourmet touch; can omit if unavailable.
- Red wine (3 cups, Merlot, Pinot Noir, or Chianti) – Produces the rich sauce; for a milder taste, reduce to 2 cups and replace with beef stock.
- Beef stock (2-3 cups) – Adds moisture and flavor; adjust according to wine usage.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons) – Enhances umami flavor; consider doubling for extra richness.
- Beef bouillon cube (1, crushed) – Concentrates flavor; may increase for intensity.
- Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, finely chopped) – Adds aromatic herbaceousness; dried thyme can be a substitute.
- Bay leaves (2) – Introduces depth important for flavor.
For the Mushrooms
- Mushrooms (1 pound, quartered) – Complements meat and enhances the dish's earthiness; can use button or cremini mushrooms.
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – Used for sautéing mushrooms; olive oil can replace it for a dairy-free option.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, finely chopped) – Adds freshness and can be swapped with other herbs like chives.
Enjoy the delightful journey of creating Beef Bourguignon with these carefully selected ingredients, and remember that each step brings you closer to a cozy, sumptuous meal!
How to Make Beef Bourguignon
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for slow-cooking your beef to achieve that tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
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In a large Dutch oven, heat oil and sauté bacon until crisp. Once it’s nice and golden, remove it from the pot and set aside. This will infuse your dish with a delightful smoky flavor!
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Sear beef in batches in the remaining bacon fat until browned all over. This step is essential for locking in flavors. After searing, set the beef aside as you prepare the veggies.
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Sauté carrots and onions in the same pot until softened. Add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, releasing a beautiful aroma that fills your kitchen.
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Return bacon and beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with flour. Mix everything well and allow it to brown for that rich, savory base.
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Add pearl onions, red wine, and beef stock until the meat is barely covered. Stir in tomato paste, bouillon, and herbs, making sure to blend all the flavors together.
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Simmer on the stove, then cover and transfer to the oven. Cook for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender and invitingly aromatic. It's worth the wait!
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Prepare mushrooms: Sauté them in butter with garlic until they're beautifully browned. Set aside to mix with the beef later for an extra layer of flavor.
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Strain sauce from the meat mixture, returning beef to the pot and adding mushrooms back in. This way, you’ll have a smooth sauce and juicy beef chunks in every bite.
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Thicken sauce if necessary by simmering it gently. This is the moment to adjust seasonings before serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Garnish with parsley for a fresh touch!
Optional: Serve with a crusty bread to soak up that sumptuous gravy.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Beef Bourguignon
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Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality beef and wine for the best flavor. A better wine can elevate the richness of your sauce, making your Beef Bourguignon unforgettable.
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Sear for Success: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the beef and bacon enhances flavor and locks in juices, ensuring that your final dish is savory and delightful.
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Mind the Mushrooms: Add mushrooms towards the end of cooking. Overcooking them can lead to a mushy texture. You want them to retain a bit of bite in your Beef Bourguignon.
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Perfect Pairing: If you're unsure about wine, Merlot or Pinot Noir works wonderfully. Even a slightly less expensive bottle can provide great results without compromising the dish’s integrity.
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Make-Ahead Benefits: Prepare your Beef Bourguignon a day in advance. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when you reheat it for dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Bourguignon prepare-ahead options make meal prep a breeze for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables, sear the meat, and even cook the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. To ensure the best quality, refrigerate the stew after it cools completely. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it just as delicious and hearty when reheated. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the Beef Bourguignon on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef stock or wine if necessary to maintain the sauce's richness. This way, you can enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Beef Bourguignon?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful French dish with perfect accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice, they absorb the savory red wine gravy beautifully, creating a comforting bite with every forkful.
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Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, this bread adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft, tender beef.
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Butter-Braised Vegetables: Lightly sautéed green beans or glazed carrots provide a refreshing contrast, adding a pop of color and flavor to your plate.
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Ratatouille: This vegetable medley introduces bright, fresh flavors to the rich Beef Bourguignon, striking a harmonious balance on your palate.
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Garlic Butter Noodles: Serve alongside fettuccine coated in garlic butter, intertwining effortlessly with the robust beef sauce while adding a lovely texture.
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A Bold Red Wine: Pour yourself a glass of Merlot or Pinot Noir to deepen the experience; the wine’s character echoes the flavors in the dish.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, peppery arugula adds a crisp contrast that refreshes the palate between the hearty bites of beef.
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Dark Chocolate Mousse: Complete your meal with a rich and silky dessert; it mirrors the sophistication of the Beef Bourguignon while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Storage Tips for Beef Bourguignon
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Room Temperature: Allow the Beef Bourguignon to cool completely at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth before storing.
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as the stew rests, making it an even better choice for leftovers.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date to keep track of freshness!
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain the rich, velvety texture of the Beef Bourguignon.
Beef Bourguignon Variations & Substitutions
Embrace the joy of customizing your Beef Bourguignon to match your tastes and dietary needs!
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Lamb Swap: Substitute beef with lamb chunks for a tender twist that's rich with flavor.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use hearty mushrooms or eggplant instead of beef, along with vegetable stock for a delightful plant-based version.
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Root Veggie Additions: Add parsnips, potatoes, or turnips for a heartier stew that brings added sweetness and texture.
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Garlic Boost: Increase garlic to 8 or 10 cloves for a deeper aroma and flavor that satisfies garlic lovers.
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Whole Grain Variation: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition in the sauce.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a little heat in their stew.
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Non-Alcoholic Option: Omit red wine and replace it with beef stock and a splash of balsamic vinegar for that signature depth of flavor.
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Herb Infusions: Experiment with adding fresh rosemary or sage in addition to thyme for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish.
Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Beef Bourguignon?
The ideal cuts for Beef Bourguignon are brisket, chuck steak, or stewing beef, all of which should be cut into 2-inch chunks. Brisket is preferred for its tenderness, but chuck steak also works beautifully. Just ensure that the beef has a good marbling of fat to keep it juicy during the slow cooking process.
How should I store leftovers of Beef Bourguignon?
Allow the Beef Bourguignon to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Not only will the flavors meld and improve, but you’ll also be rewarded with delicious leftovers to enjoy!
Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let it cool completely. Pour the cooled Beef Bourguignon into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
What should I do if my Beef Bourguignon is too thick?
If you find that your Beef Bourguignon is thicker than you'd like, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of beef stock or red wine while gently simmering it to achieve your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually, and allow it to warm through until the sauce is velvety and smooth again.
Are there any dietary considerations for Beef Bourguignon?
Yes! If you have dietary restrictions, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting regular flour for gluten-free flour when thickening the sauce. Also, for those who prefer a dairy-free recipe, simply swap the butter for olive oil when sautéing the mushrooms. If you're serving guests with allergies, ensure to ask about specific ingredients, especially the bacon, if they have dietary restrictions.
How ripe should the vegetables be for the best Beef Bourguignon?
For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh, firm vegetables. The carrots should be vibrant and crunchy, while the onions should be unblemished without any dark spots. If you're using mushrooms, opt for firm, clean specimens. Avoid any vegetables that look wilted or have soft spots to ensure your Beef Bourguignon is as flavorful as possible!
Irresistibly Tender Beef Bourguignon: Julia Child's Classic Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large Dutch oven, heat oil and sauté bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Sear beef in batches in the remaining bacon fat until browned all over. Set aside.
- Sauté carrots and onions until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Return bacon and beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with flour. Mix well.
- Add pearl onions, red wine, and beef stock until the meat is barely covered. Stir in tomato paste and herbs.
- Simmer on the stove, then cover and transfer to the oven. Cook for 2-3 hours until beef is tender.
- Prepare mushrooms: Sauté in butter with garlic until browned. Set aside.
- Strain sauce from the meat mixture, returning beef to the pot and adding mushrooms back in.
- Thicken sauce if necessary. Adjust seasonings before serving. Garnish with parsley.
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