After a long day filled with endless to-do lists, few things soothe the soul quite like the deep, rich aroma of a simmering stew. Imagine coming home to the comforting scent of savory beef and aromatic herbs enveloping your kitchen—a true culinary embrace that invites you to unwind. This Weeknight Beef Bourguignon might sound fancy, but it’s a delightful dish that you can easily whip up without any fuss.
I discovered this recipe during a cozy Saturday afternoon in the kitchen, a moment fueled by my search for something hearty yet uncomplicated. The combination of tender beef, crispy bacon, and a splash of red wine transforms into a soul-warming meal that’s perfect for both solo dinners and gatherings with family and friends.
With just a handful of ingredients and a few hours of patience, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this dish fits into your weeknight routine, bringing a taste of France to your home. Let’s dive into the robust flavors and create a satisfying meal that promises to impress!
Why is Weeknight Beef Bourguignon a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma: The rich scent of simmering beef and herbs fills your kitchen with warmth, instantly elevating your evening.
Simple ingredients: With just a few basic staples, creating this hearty dish is easier than you’d expect.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings, this stew is a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
Nutritious comfort: Savor the goodness of tender beef and wholesome veggies that not only satisfy but nourish.
Time-saver: Let this flavorful stew simmer while you unwind—it’s the ultimate home-cooked meal without the fuss!
Embrace the joy of cooking by exploring our other weeknight recipes for more hassle-free meal ideas!
Weeknight Beef Bourguignon Ingredients
For the Stew
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon to heat up the flavors and encourage browning.
• Bacon – 8 slices (thick cut, chopped) for that irresistible smoky richness.
• Stewing beef – 3 pounds (lean, cut into 1-inch pieces) is the star of this hearty dish.
• Onion – 1 large (chopped) to add depth and sweetness to the stew.
• Carrot – 1 large (peeled and roughly chopped) for a touch of earthiness.
• Pearl onions – 1 pound (peeled) for added sweetness and texture in every bite.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances every flavor in this comfort dish.
• Pepper – ½ teaspoon (ground) to add a hint of warmth.
• Garlic – 4 cloves (minced) for a fragrant base that brings everything together.
• Mushrooms – 1 pound (chopped) to enrich the stew with umami goodness.
• All-purpose flour – 2 tablespoons acts as a thickening agent for that luscious sauce.
• Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon brings acidity that balances the stew’s richness.
• Bay leaf – 1 for a subtle layer of flavor that simmers throughout.
• Thyme – 1 tablespoon (fresh) offers a fragrant herbiness to round out the dish.
• Beef broth – 2 cups (low sodium or no sodium added) for a full-bodied broth.
• Red wine – 3 cups adds depth, making this Weeknight Beef Bourguignon truly special.
Take a moment to gather these ingredients, and prepare for a cooking experience that will take your weeknight dinners to delightful new heights!
How to Make Weeknight Beef Bourguignon
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Heat Oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma. Remove the bacon and set it aside.
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Brown Beef: In the same pot, add the stewing beef in batches, browning all sides until a lovely golden crust forms. This step is key to deepening the flavors. Remove the beef and set it aside too.
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Sauté Veggies: Toss in the chopped onion, roughly chopped carrot, and peeled pearl onions. Sauté until softened, stirring occasionally—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for about 2 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Thicken: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture, stirring to combine. This will help create that thick, delicious sauce we all love in a stew.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, fresh thyme, beef broth, and red wine to the pot. Stir well, then return the reserved bacon and beef to join the mix.
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Simmer: Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, until the beef is incredibly tender and the flavors are harmoniously blended.
Optional: Serve with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Weeknight Beef Bourguignon Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these delightful twists and substitutions that elevate our beef bourguignon into something uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the red wine with additional beef broth and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth without dairy.
- Vegetarian: Replace the beef with hearty mushrooms and add chickpeas for a protein boost, creating a delightful meatless alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a few red pepper flakes during cooking to introduce a mild heat that pairs beautifully with the stew’s rich flavors.
- Herb Medley: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano; they each bring a unique aromatic profile to the stew.
- Root Veggie Delight: Mix in diced potatoes or turnips alongside the carrots; they soak up the flavors and add texture and heartiness to every bite.
- Smoked Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for an intriguing smoky nuance that complements the richness of the beef.
- Umami Boost: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari during simmering to enhance the umami notes and deepen the overall flavor profile.
- Wine Variety: Swap out the red wine for a robust Port or any full-bodied white wine to create a different flavor landscape that’s just as comforting.
With these variations, you can customize your stew to fit your family’s preferences and create new flavor experiences that keep everyone coming back for more!
Make Ahead Options
These Weeknight Beef Bourguignon preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and even brown the bacon and beef up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them separately and combine them when you’re ready to cook. To maintain that rich flavor, store the ingredients in airtight containers and keep them away from any moisture. On the day you plan to serve, just sauté the veggies, add the prepared meat, and continue with the simmering process for 2-3 hours until tender. This will ensure a delightful and hearty stew that’s just as delicious as if made fresh, allowing you to enjoy more family time during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Weeknight Beef Bourguignon
Fridge: Store leftover Weeknight Beef Bourguignon in an airtight container for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld even more.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Enjoy the comforting richness of this delicious dish!
Chilling: If you’re storing it warm from the stove, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain quality and safety.
What to Serve with Weeknight Beef Bourguignon?
Looking to complete your comforting meal with the perfect sides and accompaniments?
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Crusty French Baguette: The chewy texture and crispy crust are perfect for soaking up that rich sauce, making every bite memorable.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a silky contrast to the hearty stew, enhancing the overall experience.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: With their nutty flavor and crispy edges, they add a delightful crunch that balances the stew’s tenderness.
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Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a bright vinaigrette offers freshness and a contrast to the rich stew, awakening the palate.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs acts as a wonderful base, soaking up flavors from the beef bourguignon.
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Red Wine: A glass of the same red wine you used in cooking elevates the meal, bringing the flavors full circle.
Consider adding a dessert like Chocolate Mousse for a sweet ending to your cozy meal; its rich flavor complements the heartiness of the stew without overwhelming it.
Expert Tips for Weeknight Beef Bourguignon
• Quality Ingredients: Use the best quality beef and wine you can afford; it truly makes a difference in flavor and tenderness for your Weeknight Beef Bourguignon.
• Browning Matters: Don’t rush the browning of the beef and bacon; this step adds an essential depth of flavor that can elevate your stew.
• Herb Timing: Add fresh herbs near the end of cooking if using substitutes like dried thyme, to avoid bitterness and maintain their aromatic qualities.
• Thickening Trick: If your stew is too thin after simmering, whisk in a bit of flour mixed with cold water to thicken it up without lumps.
• Flavor Enhancer: For an extra umami kick, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few anchovies with the garlic and mushrooms.
• Make Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors develop overnight for an easy weeknight dinner.
Weeknight Beef Bourguignon Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting stewing beef?
When choosing stewing beef, look for lean cuts like chuck or round that have good marbling, which helps keep the meat tender during long cooking. The pieces should be cut into roughly 1-inch cubes, with no dark spots or discoloration.
How long can I store leftover Weeknight Beef Bourguignon in the fridge?
Leftover Weeknight Beef Bourguignon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s a good idea to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain its quality.
Can I freeze Weeknight Beef Bourguignon? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your stew, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing excess air before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, label the bags with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
How can I reheat the stew while retaining its original flavor?
To reheat, thaw the frozen stew overnight in the fridge. Then, place it in a pot on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This gentle reheating helps keep the flavors intact and ensures the beef remains tender.
What if my stew is too thin after simmering?
If your Weeknight Beef Bourguignon turns out thinner than desired, don’t worry! Simply whisk 1-2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour with a small amount of cold water until smooth, then stir it into the stew. Continue cooking until it thickens to your liking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This stew contains beef and bacon, allergens for some individuals. If you’re serving guests or family with dietary restrictions, consider alternatives like using mushrooms as a substitute for meat or ensuring your broth and bacon are gluten-free. Always check labels for potential allergens.
Hearty Weeknight Beef Bourguignon for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the stewing beef in batches, browning all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and pearl onions. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, beef broth, and red wine to the pot. Stir well, and return the reserved bacon and beef.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours until beef is tender.