Never-Fail Beef Bourguignon

Prep: 20 min Cook: 150 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: French

A rich and hearty beef bourguignon with tender beef, mushrooms, and onions simmered in red wine, perfect for comforting dinners and special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. lean beef, cubed
  • 2 medium onions, sliced
  • 2 Tbsp. flour
  • 6 Tbsp. butter
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 20 small onions, peeled
  • 3 to 4 (12 oz.) bottles red cooking wine
  • 1 tsp. thyme
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Roll beef cubes in flour.
  2. Brown beef, sliced onions, and crushed garlic in butter.
  3. Transfer all to a large Dutch oven.
  4. Add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour enough red wine over the meat to cover.
  6. Simmer for 2 1/2 hours.
  7. Add small peeled onions and cook until tender.
  8. Add sliced mushrooms in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  9. If the sauce needs thickening, add flour mixed with water and stir into the mixture.
  10. Serve over rice or noodles.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon. If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme is a great substitute, just use half the amount. Ensure to brown the beef well for added depth of flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with water instead of flour. This Never-Fail Beef Bourguignon is sure to impress.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Beef Bourguignon over rice or noodles for a comforting meal. Pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of the dish. For a complete experience, enjoy with a glass of the same red wine used for cooking. This dish pairs beautifully with Beef Stroganoff.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months, making it a convenient meal option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Never-Fail Beef Bourguignon contains roughly 1517 calories, with 127g protein, 240g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (710% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (498% of the Daily Value), and protein (254% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1868mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).

1517 kcal 76% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 126.9g 100% DV
Total Fat 41.5g 53% DV
Carbs 240.1g 87% DV
Fiber 139.5g 100% DV
Sugar 1.4g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1868.3mg 81% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 38mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 398.6mcg 44% DV
Vitamin C 638.7mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 1508.1mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket, which will also yield a tender result after long cooking. Just ensure the beef is well-marbled for the best flavor and texture. Cutting it into uniform cubes will help it cook evenly.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the Beef Bourguignon a day in advance. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate. The flavors will deepen overnight. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little wine or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

What can I serve alongside Beef Bourguignon?

Consider serving with buttery mashed potatoes or egg noodles, which are perfect for soaking up the sauce. A side of steamed green beans or glazed carrots adds a lovely contrast. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of Stuffed Cabbage Head or a simple green salad.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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