Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both your heart and your home, this Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe is just the ticket! Picture tender chunks of beef simmering in a rich, flavorful sauce, perfect for gathering family around the dinner table. It’s a dish that brings a touch of French elegance to any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a festive holiday gathering. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your favorites!

What makes this classic beef bourguignon so special? It’s all about the depth of flavor and the comforting texture. The marriage of tender beef and vibrant vegetables in a sumptuous apple vinegar sauce is simply unforgettable. Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking when dinner is served!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you won’t need to be a culinary expert to whip this up.
• Family-Friendly: This hearty dish is sure to please everyone at the table—kids and adults alike will love it!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time! The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of beef bourguignon on a chilly evening to soothe the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple yet wholesome. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that beloved flavor profile we all adore in classic beef bourguignon.

For the Main 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these delightful variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not keen on beef, try using chicken thighs for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some diced potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness.
• Make it vegetarian: Use mushrooms as the main ingredient and substitute vegetable broth for beef stock.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different 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 is important as it prepares your cooking environment for slow-cooking magic.

Step 2: Render the Bacon

In your 5 qt Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon over medium-low heat. Cook until browned and crispy, which not only adds flavor but also releases its fat—perfect for sautéing later. Once done, remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Now it’s time for that beautiful sear! Season your cubes of beef with salt and pepper, then increase the heat to medium-high. Searing locks in juices and creates that delicious crust we all love. If your pot isn’t big enough, do this in batches so each piece gets proper attention.

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat again to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss in onions and carrots; sauté them until they start softening—about 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic next; cooking until fragrant makes all those flavors dance together! Then comes tomato paste and flour; cooking them helps deepen their flavors before we add liquids.

Step 5: Add Vinegar, Stock, and Herbs

Pour in that tangy apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom—this is where flavor lives! Stir in beef stock along with bouillon before adding back your seared meat along with bacon, thyme, and bay leaves. Cover it up tightly and let it cook slowly in the oven—that’s where all those magical flavors meld together.

Step 6: Add Mushrooms and Pearl Onions

After about 2½ hours, melt remaining butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook mushrooms until browned; they’ll add such an earthy richness! Toss in pearl onions for another five minutes until golden—season them with salt and pepper too!

Step 7: Final Touches

Gently mix those lovely mushrooms and onions into your pot after removing it from the oven. Return everything until the beef is incredibly tender—another 45-60 minutes should do it! Once done cooking, let it rest covered for at least half an hour before serving; patience rewards you with intensified flavors!

Now you’re ready to serve this comforting classic to friends or family—I guarantee they’ll feel loved with every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Cooking can feel overwhelming, but with a few simple tips, you can elevate your beef bourguignon to restaurant-quality perfection!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using chuck roast ensures that the meat is tender and flavorful after slow cooking. This cut has the right balance of fat and connective tissue, which breaks down beautifully during the long cooking process.

• Don’t rush the searing step: Searing the beef is crucial for developing rich flavors. Take your time with this step; it adds depth to the dish by creating those lovely caramelized bits at the bottom of the pot that will enhance the sauce.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves impart a wonderful aroma and taste to your dish. They elevate the overall flavor profile, making your bourguignon more fragrant and delicious.

• Allow for resting time: After removing your beef bourguignon from the oven, let it sit covered for 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together even further and makes for a more cohesive dish.

• Feel free to customize: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings! This recipe is versatile; you can throw in some parsnips or turnips if you like, or even experiment with different types of mushrooms.

How to Serve Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Presenting your classic beef bourguignon beautifully can transform a comforting meal into a memorable dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that brightens up the rich sauce.
• Crusty bread: Serve slices of warm crusty bread alongside for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a velvety base that complements the hearty beef bourguignon perfectly, balancing out its richness.
• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds a lovely caramelized sweetness and texture contrast that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans add freshness to your plate. Their bright color and crunch offer a nice contrast to the tender meat.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the beef bourguignon.

Enjoy crafting this classic dish! With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Bon appétit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This classic beef bourguignon recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully while saving you time on busy weeknights or festive occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s properly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from affecting the dish.

Freezing

• Portion the beef bourguignon into freezer-safe containers for easy thawing.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated evenly.
• Always ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

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 dish made with tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in a rich sauce made from apple vinegar and herbs. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings.

Can I use a different vinegar in my Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe?

While Burgundy apple vinegar enhances the flavor profile beautifully, you can substitute it with any bold apple vinegar or even red wine vinegar if needed. Just be mindful of the taste adjustments!

How long does Classic Beef Bourguignon last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, classic beef bourguignon can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. It also freezes well for up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope this classic beef bourguignon recipe finds a special place at your dining table! The tenderness of the beef combined with that rich apple vinegar sauce makes it a comforting dish that warms both heart and soul. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations. Happy cooking!