How To Make Beef Bourguignon

What is beef bourguignon, anyway? This rustic beef stew with bacon, vegetables, and red wine starts on the stovetop, then usually braises in the oven for almost 3 hours. We think our version of the classic is the best beef bourguignon recipe for home cooks who want authentic flavors with less hassle. Refer to the full recipe for the details, but find our how to make beef bourguignon using our easier method here:

Cook the Bacon

Spraying your Dutch oven or stockpot instead of using oil to cook the bacon lets you use the bacon fat for searing the beef.

Sear the Beef

First, you’ll be cutting the beef into smaller portions, this allows the stew to cook faster. Plus, searing the seasoned beef in batches creates a flavorful browned crust on each piece.

Cook the Vegetables

After removing the beef with a slotted spoon, add your onion, carrots, and mushrooms to cook in the bacon and beef pan drippings until the mushrooms are browned. Cooking all vegetables together reduces stirring time. 

Add the Flour Mixture, Then the Wine

Briefly cook the flour, garlic, and tomato paste. Cooking all at once skips a couple of steps seen in more traditional beef burgundy recipes. Then add the wine. Adding the wine by itself, instead of with the broth, provides all the flavor of the wine without cooking for hours to reduce the liquid.

Add the Broth and Simmer

Place the beef and bacon back in the pot and add the broth and thyme. All that’s left is about an hour of simmering to tender beefy perfection!

What To Serve with Beef Bourguignon

Wondering how to serve beef bourguignon? While this stew is hearty and filling, you will probably still want to know what to eat with beef bourguignon. Whether you want something starchy to soak up the delicious braising liquid or green veggies to add a fresh element, we’ve got you covered!

Starches: Appropriate and simple starchy sides to compliment an authentic beef bourguignon recipe include boiled or mashed potatoes, warm French bread, white rice, and buttered noodles.

Green Vegetables: While our easy beef bourguignon recipe is filled with meltingly tender veggies, you might still want a pop of bright green for freshness and variety. If so, try a simple side salad, buttered peas, or parmesan garlic green beans.

If you’re looking for inspiration on hearty sides to serve with beef bourguignon try a gluten free risotto or au gratin potatoes.

How To Reheat Beef Bourguignon Leftovers

Our Classic Beef Bourguignon Recipe reheats beautifully, and can even strengthen in flavor after being stored. Here are some tips on how to reheat beef bourguignon.

Thaw if Frozen: Thaw the frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator.

Store in Individual Servings: For best results, and to prevent overcooking or drying out the beef when reheating, store leftovers in individual servings in separate containers.

Reheat Gently: On the stovetop, reheat the stew over medium heat until steaming hot. In the microwave, place stew in microwave-safe bowl, loosely covered and heat on medium (50%) power in 1-minute intervals, stirring after each interval, until steaming hot.

Thin if Needed: Beef bourguignon can thicken with storage. While reheating, you can choose to add a little broth or water to thin out until it has returned to original consistency.