Classic French Beef Stew with Mushrooms (Boeuf Bourguignon Style)
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Classic French Beef Stew with Mushrooms is a must-try. Inspired by Boeuf Bourguignon, this dish features tender beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory broth with bacon, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth beef stew bursting with deep, delicious flavors.
This traditional French beef stew is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for cozy dinners, whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal. The best part? It tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish.
Why You’ll Love This Classic French Beef Stew
✅ Rich & Hearty – Slow cooking results in tender beef and deeply developed flavors.
✅ Authentic French Flavor – Inspired by Boeuf Bourguignon, a classic dish from Burgundy.
✅ Great for Make-Ahead & Freezing – The flavors improve overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.
✅ One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in one pot, meaning less cleanup!
✅ Perfect for Cold Weather – A warm, comforting dish for chilly evenings.
Ingredients for French Beef Stew
This beef stew recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
For the Stew:
• 3 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces – Choose well-marbled beef for tenderness.
• 6 slices bacon, chopped – Adds a rich, smoky depth of flavor.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped – The base of the aromatic flavor.
• 3 carrots, sliced – Provides natural sweetness.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances the savory taste.
• 2 cups beef broth – Use high-quality or homemade broth for the best results.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Adds depth and umami to the stew.
• 1 lb mushrooms, quartered – Adds a hearty, earthy flavor.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the stew.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil – For browning the beef and sautéing vegetables.
• 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaves, parsley) – A traditional French seasoning bundle.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To enhance the flavors.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Depth:
• 1 cup red wine (such as Burgundy or Pinot Noir) – For a more authentic Boeuf Bourguignon flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds warmth and depth.
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce – Enhances umami flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Classic French Beef Stew
Step 1: Brown the Bacon
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
1. Pat the beef dry with paper towels (this helps it brown better).
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
3. In the same pot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and brown the beef in batches, ensuring a deep golden-brown crust on all sides.
4. Remove the beef and set aside with the bacon.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are softened.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat everything evenly, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Build the Stew
1. Return the beef and bacon to the pot.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, coating the meat and vegetables.
3. Add the beef broth (and red wine if using). Stir well.
4. Toss in the bouquet garni (or tie the herbs together with kitchen twine for easy removal).
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover and let cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Cook the Mushrooms Separately
1. While the stew simmers, heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the quartered mushrooms and sauté until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir the mushrooms into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Final Touches & Serving
1. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed).
2. Remove the bouquet garni before serving.
3. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
What to Serve with French Beef Stew
This rich, savory stew pairs perfectly with:
🥖 Crusty French Bread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
🥔 Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes complement the hearty stew.
🚠Rice or Buttered Egg Noodles – A simple but satisfying side.
🥗 A Light Green Salad – Balances the richness of the stew.
🷠A Glass of Red Wine – Try a Burgundy, Pinot Noir, or Cabernet Sauvignon for the perfect pairing.
Tips for the Best French Beef Stew
✔ Use the Right Cut of Beef – Beef chuck is best because it becomes tender when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become dry.
✔ Brown the Beef Properly – A good sear adds deep flavor to the stew. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
✔ Cook Low & Slow – Letting the stew simmer for 2+ hours ensures the beef is tender and the flavors are well-developed.
✔ Sauté Mushrooms Separately – This keeps them from becoming soggy.
✔ Make It Ahead – This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
How to Store Leftover Beef Stew
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
How to Freeze Beef Stew
• Let the stew cool completely.
• Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Follow the same steps for browning the meat and veggies, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
2. Can I Make This in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the bacon, beef, and vegetables using the Sauté function. Add the liquids and herbs, then pressure cook on HIGH for 45 minutes, followed by a natural release.
3. What Can I Use Instead of Red Wine?
You can substitute the red wine with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Final Thoughts
This Classic French Beef Stew with Mushrooms is a dish that warms the soul with every bite. The rich, flavorful broth, tender beef, and hearty vegetables make it the perfect meal for a cozy night in.
Make it once, and it will become a staple in your kitchen! If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with family and friends and let us know how it turned out in the comments.