Imagine savoring a rich, savory beef stew with tender meat, hearty vegetables, and deep wine-infused flavors – all in one pot!
Beef Bourguignon is the ultimate comfort food, blending French tradition with easy, modern cooking.
Originally made famous by Julia Child, this dish traditionally requires multiple pots and lots of prep.
But with our streamlined approach, you can create this cozy, restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
Let’s dive into how to make Beef Bourguignon in one pot – ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself!
Key Ingredients for One Pot Beef Bourguignon
Using high-quality ingredients is essential to creating a flavorful Beef Bourguignon. Here’s a closer look at the key components:
- Beef: For tender results, choose cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or stewing beef. These cuts have more marbling, which adds flavor and richness.
- Vegetables: Classic additions include carrots, onions, and mushrooms, adding a hearty texture and balanced flavor profile to the dish.
- Red Wine: Burgundy wine is traditionally used, but any full-bodied red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir will work well.
- Aromatics & Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, garlic, and bay leaves infuse the stew with earthy flavors.
Each ingredient brings unique qualities to the dish, making it essential to follow the recipe closely for the best results.
How to Make Beef Bourguignon in One Pot
Ready to get cooking? Here’s a step-by-step guide for making Beef Bourguignon in a single pot.
- Prep the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the carrots, onions, and mushrooms into bite-sized pieces. Cut the beef into chunks and pat them dry—this helps create a better sear.
- Sear the Beef: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Searing locks in flavor and adds depth.
- Add Aromatics: Add garlic, onion, and herbs to the pot. Stir for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom of the pot—this is where tons of flavor come from!
- Simmer: Add the beef back in, along with broth, carrots, and mushrooms. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
Cooking low and slow allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender, resulting in a stew that’s both hearty and luxurious.

Tips for Perfect One Pot Beef Bourguignon
To make sure your Beef Bourguignon is restaurant-quality, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the Right Beef: Choose a cut like chuck roast that can stand up to long cooking.
- Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Add vegetables after the beef has simmered a while so they don’t become mushy.
- Substitutions: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with beef broth and a touch of balsamic vinegar for depth.
- Slow Cooker Option: You can also make this recipe in a slow cooker. Sear the meat and aromatics on the stove first, then transfer to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
With these simple tips, your Beef Bourguignon will come out just right every time.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Bourguignon pairs beautifully with classic side dishes. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the richness of the stew.
- Crusty Bread: Use it to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Buttered Noodles: For a traditional French touch, serve over egg noodles.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with the same red wine used in the recipe, or opt for a light Burgundy.
Adding these simple sides will elevate the dining experience and bring a touch of French flair to your table.
Variations on One Pot Beef Bourguignon
While the traditional recipe is fantastic, here are some creative twists if you’d like to try something different:
- Quick Weeknight Version: Use ground beef or a faster-cooking cut of meat for a simplified version.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute mushrooms for the beef and use vegetable broth for a rich, meat-free meal.
- Different Spirits: Substitute wine with stout or dark beer for a deeper, heartier flavor.
These variations keep the essence of Beef Bourguignon but offer options for different tastes and dietary preferences.