There's nothing quite like the rich, savory aroma of Classic Beef Bourguignon simmering gently on your stovetop. Tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a deeply flavorful sauce come together to create a dish that's as comforting as it is elegant. Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
The first time I made this dish, I was struck by its ability to turn simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. With a little patience and the right technique, you can create a dish that feels like it came straight from a fine dining restaurant. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.
Why You'll Love This Classic Beef Bourguignon
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this timeless recipe. Classic Beef Bourguignon is a dish that celebrates bold, satisfying flavors while remaining surprisingly easy to prepare.
First, the depth of flavor in the sauce is absolutely unmatched. A combination of slow-cooked vegetables, savory broth, and aromatic seasonings creates a robust base that perfectly complements the tender chunks of beef.
This dish is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttery noodles, or even a simple crusty bread—each option highlights the rich sauce in a unique way.
It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. Perfect for busy weeks or hosting guests without the last-minute scramble.
Lastly, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. The hearty ingredients and cozy, rustic presentation make it appealing to diners of all ages, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Classic Beef Bourguignon lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each playing a vital role in building its signature flavor.
The star of the dish is, of course, the beef. Look for well-marbled cuts like chuck roast or beef stew meat. These cuts become wonderfully tender after slow cooking and soak up all the flavors of the sauce.
Next, we have the vegetables—carrots, onions, and celery. These add sweetness and texture while enhancing the sauce with their natural flavors. Make sure to chop them evenly for consistent cooking.
For the liquid base, a blend of broth and seasonings ensures a rich and hearty sauce. Using beef or chicken broth adds depth, while herbs like bay leaves and thyme provide earthy undertones.
Tomato paste is the unsung hero of the sauce. It adds a subtle tanginess and helps thicken the liquid for that luxurious, velvety texture.
Finally, don’t forget the mushrooms. Sautéed to golden perfection, they bring an earthy richness to the dish and balance the meatiness of the beef.
You'll need a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for this recipe to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor development.
How To Make This Classic Beef Bourguignon

Creating this masterpiece of a meal is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to bring this dish to life in your kitchen.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the beef into large chunks, pat them dry with paper towels, and season generously with salt and pepper. Chop the vegetables into uniform pieces, and have all your ingredients ready to go.
In a large Dutch oven, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing each piece until browned on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve that beautiful crust. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Next, add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Sauté them in the residual oil and browned bits from the beef, letting them soften and release their flavors. Stir in the tomato paste, coating the vegetables evenly.
Return the beef to the pot and add your broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Toss in a bay leaf, a few sprigs of thyme, and a pinch of black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and let the beef bourguignon simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. During this time, the beef will become tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
About 30 minutes before the dish is done, sauté your mushrooms in a separate pan with a bit of oil or butter until golden brown. Add them to the pot, giving the dish an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Taste the sauce before serving, adjusting the seasoning as needed. Serve hot over your choice of accompaniment, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, lucky you! This dish stores exceptionally well and can be easily reheated for another meal.
To refrigerate, let the beef bourguignon cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Be sure to label and date them for easy reference. When stored properly, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Warm the dish gently in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much during storage.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and pantry.
For a lighter protein option, try swapping the beef for chicken thighs or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat remains tender and juicy.
Not a fan of mushrooms? Feel free to omit them or substitute with another vegetable, like parsnips or pearl onions, for a different texture and taste.
You can also play with the herbs. Rosemary or parsley stems can be added during cooking for a slightly different aromatic profile.
Want a thicker sauce? Mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Let it simmer until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Lastly, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Experiment with mashed sweet potatoes, wild rice, or even polenta to keep things fresh and exciting.
There you have it—your ultimate guide to making Classic Beef Bourguignon. With its deep flavors, hearty ingredients, and undeniable charm, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it earns a permanent spot in your family’s recipe collection!
PrintClassic Beef Bourguignon Recipe
This classic beef bourguignon recipe features tender beef simmered to perfection with wholesome vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a savory sauce. Ideal for a comforting dinner, this recipe delivers incredible flavors in every bite while remaining simple to prepare.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium onions, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 cup grape juice or pomegranate juice
- 1 cup water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pot, then pour in beef stock, grape juice, and water. Add bay leaves and thyme.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add the baby potatoes and cook for another 30 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, you can roast the beef cubes before adding them to the pot.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or steamed rice.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
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