Name: Beef Bourguignon Soup: Cozy Comfort for Your Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 4 strips Applewood Smoked Bacon (Adds richness and depth; can substitute with any smoked bacon.); 2 lb Diced Stew Beef (Best from chuck roast or bottom round.); 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (Helps in browning the beef and thickening the soup.); 1.5 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor; adjust based on taste preference.); 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground is preferred.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Diced, provides sweetness.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced, gives a robust aroma.); 6 tbsp Tomato Paste (Contributes to umami flavor.); 2 cups Dry Red Wine (Forms the broth base; substitute with beef broth for non-alcoholic version.); 6 cups Beef Broth (Add body; low-sodium version can be used.); 4 sprigs Fresh Thyme (Imbues a fresh herbal note.); 1 large Bay Leaf (Adds aromatic flavor; remove before serving.); 4 tbsp Pesto (Brightens the dish; homemade is preferred.); 2 tsp Brown Sugar (Balances the acidity of the wine.); 2 stalks Celery (Diced, adds crunch and flavor depth.); 8 medium Carrots (Diced, contributes sweetness.); 2 medium Russet Potatoes (Diced, adds heartiness.); 8 oz Sliced Mushrooms (Cremini or white, enhances texture.); 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Used for sautéing mushrooms.); 0.5 tsp Kosher Salt (Seasoning for mushrooms.)

As I stirred the pot, the intoxicating aroma of red wine and savory herbs wafted through the air, instantly whisking me away to a cozy Parisian bistro. This Hearty Beef Bourguignon Soup encapsulates the rich, indulgent flavors of the classic French stew, all in a warm and welcoming bowl. It’s the perfect antidote for chilly evenings, blending tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant vegetables, offering a comfort food experience that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Besides being utterly satisfying, this soup is also a fantastic way to nourish your family with wholesome ingredients that warm your heart and soul. Curious about how this delightful dish comes together? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Beef Bourguignon Soup So Special?

Comforting, each spoonful is a warm embrace that wraps you in cozy flavors reminiscent of a Parisian café. Elevated taste, the rich combination of red wine and aromatic herbs transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Simplicity meets elegance; this dish requires minimal effort yet delivers gourmet results. Whether paired with a crusty baguette or a fresh salad, the warm, hearty goodness makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. If you love cozy soups, you might also enjoy my Kielbasa Potato Soup or the Hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup.

Beef Bourguignon Soup Ingredients

• Discover what makes this comforting soup come alive!

For the Base

Applewood Smoked Bacon – Adds richness and depth to the flavor; can substitute with any smoked bacon.
Diced Stew Beef (2 lb) – Provides the main protein, best from chuck roast or bottom round; choose fresh cuts with good marbling.
All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp) – Helps in browning the beef and thickening the soup; gluten-free flour can be used if required.
Salt (1 ½ tsp) – Enhances flavor throughout the dish; adjust based on taste preference.
Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds spice; freshly ground is preferred for best flavor.
Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced) – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be used as a substitute.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Gives a robust aroma; garlic powder can do in a pinch.
Tomato Paste (6 tbsp) – Contributes to the umami flavor; can be omitted, but enhances overall taste.
Dry Red Wine (2 cups) – Forms the broth base; must be a wine you would drink; substitute with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Beef Broth (6 cups) – Adds body; low-sodium version can be used for a healthier option.

For Flavoring

Fresh Thyme (4 sprigs) – Imbues a fresh herbal note; dried thyme can be a substitute.
Bay Leaf (1 large) – Adds aromatic flavor; remember to remove before serving.
Pesto (4 tbsp) – Brightens the dish; homemade is preferred, but store-bought works fine.
Brown Sugar (2 tsp) – Balances the acidity of the wine; honey can be an alternative.

For the Veggies

Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Adds crunch and flavor depth; can be omitted if desired.
Carrots (8 medium, diced) – Contributes sweetness; parsnips are a good alternative.
Russet Potatoes (2 medium, diced) – Adds heartiness; can substitute with sweet potatoes.
Sliced Mushrooms (8 oz, cremini or white) – Enhances texture and flavor; other varieties can be swapped as desired.
Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp) – Used for sautéing mushrooms; can replace with olive oil.
Kosher Salt (½ tsp) – Seasoning for mushrooms; regular salt can also be used as per taste.

Embrace the warmth of this Beef Bourguignon Soup as the rich blend of ingredients creates a delightful bowl of comfort that’s perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Bourguignon Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large Dutch oven, cook 4 strips of applewood smoked bacon over medium-low heat for about 8–10 minutes until crispy and golden. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the fat to drain. Keep half of the bacon fat in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef
Using 2 pounds of diced stew beef, toss it in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper until well-coated. Heat the reserved bacon fat in the same Dutch oven over medium heat. Sear the beef in batches for about 5–7 minutes, turning frequently, until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same pot, add 1 medium diced yellow onion and sauté over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic. This step builds a flavorful base for your hearty Beef Bourguignon Soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Wine
Add 6 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pot and stir for about 1 minute, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Pour in 1 cup of dry red wine, stirring to incorporate and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let this mixture simmer for about 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened, enhancing the dish’s depth of flavor.

Step 5: Build the Broth
Next, return the seared beef to the pot along with the remaining 1 cup of red wine. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes, reducing the wine’s sharpness. Then, pour in 6 cups of beef broth, tossing in 4 sprigs of fresh thyme, and 1 large bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 1 hour until the beef is tender.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables
After an hour, add 2 stalks of diced celery, 8 diced carrots, and 2 medium diced russet potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine, cover, and cook for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. This stage will add wonderful flavors and texture to your Beef Bourguignon Soup.

Step 7: Sauté the Mushrooms
In a separate skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and tender. Their earthy flavor enhances the overall profile of your hearty soup. Once sautéed, stir the mushrooms into the pot, combining them with the soup.

Step 8: Final Adjustments
Check the consistency of your Beef Bourguignon Soup, adjusting its thickness by adding more broth if necessary. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Let the soup simmer for an extra 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together before serving, allowing you to enjoy both the aromas and the comforting taste.

Tips for the Best Beef Bourguignon Soup

Searing the Beef: Ensure the beef is well-browned for deeper flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pot; brown in batches to achieve better results.
Quality Wine Matters: Use a wine you enjoy drinking as it influences the soup’s taste. Cooking wine can alter the flavor negatively, so choose wisely.
Simmer Gently: A slow simmer brings out the best in your Beef Bourguignon Soup. Aim for at least 1.5-2 hours to tenderize the meat perfectly.
Introduce Veggies Gradually: Add vegetables based on their cooking times. For example, add potatoes and carrots after the beef is tender to maintain their texture.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving; adjusting with salt, pepper, or even a splash more wine can elevate your soup’s final flavor profile.

What to Serve with Hearty Beef Bourguignon Soup

The warmth of this soul-soothing soup invites you to create a memorable meal experience.

Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread complements the broth and enhances the comforting nature of the soup.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette brightens the richness of the soup, adding a fresh balance to your meal.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: These chewy, flavorful breadsticks pair wonderfully with the savory broth, adding an irresistible crunch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy, charred edges of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delightful texture contrast while complementing the hearty flavors.
Red Wine: A glass of the same dry red wine used in the soup ties the meal together, enhancing the overall experience.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this indulgent treat adds a sweet finale to your comforting meal, leaving everyone wanting more!

How to Store and Freeze Beef Bourguignon Soup

Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. As the flavors deepen over time, it becomes even more delicious!
Freezer: Freeze individual servings in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop over medium heat. Alternatively, use a microwave at medium power until heated through.
Freezing Tip: Consider portioning the soup into small containers or freezer bags, making it easy to defrost just what you need for a cozy, comforting meal!

Make Ahead Options

Prepare your Beef Bourguignon Soup in advance to save time during your busy week! You can chop the vegetables (celery, carrots, and potatoes) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can sauté the bacon and brown the beef ahead of time; cool them completely, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat the bacon and beef in the Dutch oven, add in the remaining ingredients, and follow the original cooking steps from there. This approach ensures you maintain the soup’s rich flavors without compromising on quality or comfort, allowing you to serve a delightful meal with minimal morning or evening effort!

Beef Bourguignon Soup Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tailor this soup to your taste and dietary preferences!

Lamb Swap: Replace stew beef with diced lamb for a rich, gamey flavor profile. It brings a whole new dimension to your soup!
Herb Adventure: Experiment with rosemary or oregano to introduce unexpected herbal notes. This twist can elevate your soup to new flavor heights.
Veggie Delight: Toss in seasonal vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a unique taste and texture. They add heartiness and a subtle sweetness to the blend.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. This will transform your cozy soup into a fiery delight!
Creamy Luxury: Stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a luxuriously creamy texture that complements the rich broth beautifully.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Wine-less Version: If you prefer to skip the alcohol, double the beef broth. Enhancing with a splash of balsamic vinegar can still give that depth.
Italian Twist: Swap classic pesto for a sun-dried tomato pesto to transform the flavor profile of your soup with a Mediterranean flair.

If you’re looking for more cozy soup inspiration, try my Meatball Soup Cozy or a comforting bowl of Sausage Potato Soup. Embrace the warmth and let this dish bring everyone to the table!

Beef Bourguignon Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for this soup?
Absolutely! The best cuts for Beef Bourguignon Soup are chuck roast or bottom round. Look for cuts with good marbling for extra tenderness. Freshness is key, so choose well-trimmed pieces from your butcher. This choice yields a melt-in-your-mouth experience as it simmers and absorbs all the rich flavors.

How long can I store leftover Beef Bourguignon Soup in the fridge?
You can store this delightful soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s actually a favorite of mine because the flavors deepen and become even more delectable after a day or two. Just give it a gentle stir when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I freeze Beef Bourguignon Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, remember to label the containers with the date. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What if the soup is too thick after cooking?
No worries! If you find your Beef Bourguignon Soup is thicker than desired, simply add some beef broth or even a splash of water to achieve your preferred consistency. Stir it in over medium heat until it’s warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—it’s all about that comforting balance!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Good question! If you’re serving this soup to someone with gluten sensitivities, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, be mindful of the red wine; for a non-alcoholic option, simply replace it with extra beef broth. This way, everyone at your table can enjoy the comforting flavors without worry.

How can I enhance the flavors of my Beef Bourguignon Soup?
To elevate the dish, use a quality dry red wine that you would happily drink on its own. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for brightness. Remember, always taste and adjust as you go—because cooking is all about making it your own!