Go Back
+ servings
Save This Recipe Form

Don’t lose this recipe!

Put in your email, and we’ll deliver it straight to your inbox. You’ll also get weekly recipe suggestions based on what you love. Opt-out anytime – no strings attached!

A plate of mashed potatoes topped with beef stew, featuring chunks of beef, onion, and sauce, garnished with chopped chives.

Beef Bourguignon Recipe

Beef Bourguignon is the kind of dish that turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable. With tender beef, crispy bacon, and a rich wine sauce, it’s hearty enough for any occasion but still feels a little fancy. Inspired by Julia Child, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings and only gets better as leftovers. You can make it ahead, freeze it, and enjoy a cozy, flavor-packed meal whenever you’re ready.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe [btn-google-source]
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Course: Dinner Party, Main Course
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Beef Bourguignon
Servings: 10
Calories: 425kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds beef brisket or chuck steak cut in big chunks
  • Salt and pepper
  • 8 bacon strips chopped in big pieces
  • 1 carrot sliced thick
  • 1 celery stick sliced
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups pearl onions around 12
  • 3 cups red wine
  • 3 cups beef stock
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tablespoon parsley chopped
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cups button mushrooms halved

To serve:

  • Fresh herbs
  • Mashed potatoes

Instructions

  • Pat the beef chunks dry and season them generously with salt and pepper.
    3 pounds beef brisket or chuck steak, Salt and pepper
  • In a Dutch oven or heavy skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, approx. 3 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
    8 bacon strips
  • Using the same pot, sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even browning. Add a little olive oil if needed between batches. Once done, set the beef aside with the bacon.
  • Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking them for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    1 carrot, 1 celery stick, 5 garlic cloves
  • Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, letting it deepen in color. Return the beef and bacon to the pot, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and flour. Stir everything together to coat evenly, then cook for 4-5 minutes to build flavor.
    3 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Add the pearl onions, red wine, beef stock (just enough to cover), thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. Stir well and ensure the liquid covers the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the beef is tender.
    3 cups pearl onions, 3 cups red wine, 3 cups beef stock, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, 1 tablespoon parsley, 2 bay leaves
  • In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the halved mushrooms until golden, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir the mushrooms into the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
    2 tablespoons butter, 3 cups button mushrooms
  • Serve the Beef Bourguignon hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread garnished with fresh herbs. Enjoy!
    Mashed potatoes, Fresh herbs

Notes

  • Choosing the right beef: Use brisket or chuck steak for tender, flavorful results. These cuts hold up well during long cooking and become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
  • Best wine to use: A dry red wine like Burgundy or Pinot Noir adds depth to the dish. Avoid sweet wines, as they can overpower the savory flavors.
  • Searing is key: Take the time to brown the beef in small batches. This creates a flavorful crust and locks in the juices.
  • Thickening the sauce: If you prefer a thicker consistency, allow the liquid to reduce slightly by simmering uncovered in the final 15 minutes.
  • Pearl onion shortcut: Frozen pearl onions are a great alternative to fresh ones. They save time and are just as delicious.
  • Use fresh herbs: Adding a sprinkle of parsley or thyme before serving brightens the dish and enhances its presentation.
  • Invest in a good Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot ensures even cooking and retains heat well, making it ideal for this recipe.
  • Make it ahead: Beef Bourguignon tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Reheat it gently to enjoy leftovers.

Nutrition

Calories: 425kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 435mg | Potassium: 988mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1242IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 4mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!