How to Serve Beef Bourguignon: Easy Tips & Delicious Pairings

How to Serve Beef Bourguignon: Friendly Guide to Sides, Garnishes, and More

Beef Bourguignon is a classic French stew that’s rich, hearty, and absolutely comforting. If you’re planning to make this dish or have already prepared it, you might wonder: what’s the best way to serve Beef Bourguignon? Let’s walk through everything you need to know—from the perfect side dishes and garnishes to serving tips that will make your meal unforgettable.

What Is Beef Bourguignon?

Beef Bourguignon (pronounced “boor-gee-nyon”) is a beloved French dish made by slow-cooking beef in red wine, usually Burgundy, along with onions, carrots, garlic, mushrooms, and bacon. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth stew with deep, savory flavors. Traditionally, it’s a dish that brings people together—perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

What to Serve with Beef Bourguignon

The beauty of Beef Bourguignon is how well it pairs with a variety of sides. Here are some classic and creative options to round out your meal:

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This is the most popular side for Beef Bourguignon. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes soaks up the rich wine sauce perfectly. For extra flavor, try adding roasted garlic or a bit of cream cheese to your mash.

2. Buttery Egg Noodles

Egg noodles offer a simple, satisfying base for the stew. Their slightly chewy texture complements the tender beef and helps mop up all that delicious sauce. Just toss cooked egg noodles with a little butter and fresh parsley before serving.

3. Crusty French Bread

No need for anything fancy here—a loaf of rustic French bread is all you need. Slice it up and let your guests use it to scoop up every last drop of sauce. You can even toast the bread lightly for added crunch.

4. Fluffy Rice

Steamed white or brown rice is another great option, especially if you want something lighter than potatoes or noodles. The grains absorb the sauce beautifully and add a subtle texture contrast.

5. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Balance out the richness of Beef Bourguignon with some fresh veggies. Roasted carrots, green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts all work well. For extra color and flavor, toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

6. Polenta

Creamy polenta is an underrated but delicious side for Beef Bourguignon. Its mild flavor and smooth texture are perfect for soaking up the stew’s sauce. Stir in a bit of Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

7. Potato Gratin or Dauphinoise

If you want to impress your guests, try serving a cheesy potato gratin alongside your beef stew. The crispy top and creamy layers pair wonderfully with the savory meat and sauce.

Garnishes and Toppings

The right garnish can add both flavor and visual appeal to your Beef Bourguignon. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, thyme, or chives over the top just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Pearl onions: These are traditional in Beef Bourguignon and add sweetness and texture. If you haven’t already included them in your stew, sauté some in butter and add them as a topping.
Crispy bacon: A few pieces of crumbled crispy bacon can enhance the smoky flavor of the dish.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy note and look beautiful as a garnish.

Wine Pairings for Beef Bourguignon

This dish is all about the wine! Since Beef Bourguignon is cooked in red wine, serving it with a glass of the same type makes perfect sense. Here are some pairing tips:

Burgundy (Pinot Noir): The classic choice—light enough not to overpower but rich enough to complement the flavors.
Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon: These reds are bold and pair nicely with the savory beef.
Zinfandel: If you prefer something fruitier, Zinfandel works well too.

If you’d rather skip wine, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a non-alcoholic red grape juice can be refreshing alternatives.

Serving Tips for Beef Bourguignon

Serve hot: Beef Bourguignon tastes best when piping hot. Keep it on low heat until ready to serve.
Use wide bowls: Stews like this are easier to eat from shallow, wide bowls that allow plenty of room for sides and garnishes.
Let it rest: If you have time, let your stew rest for an hour or two after cooking—the flavors will deepen even more!
Make ahead: This dish actually tastes better the next day. Prepare it in advance and gently reheat before serving.

How to Plate Beef Bourguignon

Presentation matters! Here’s how to make your Beef Bourguignon look as good as it tastes:

Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes (or your chosen side) onto each plate or bowl.
Ladle the stew over the top—be sure to get plenty of sauce!
Add your garnishes: sprinkle fresh herbs, scatter sautéed mushrooms or pearl onions, and top with crispy bacon if desired.
Serve immediately with warm bread on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Beef Bourguignon Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! In fact, Beef Bourguignon often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together overnight. Simply reheat gently on the stove before serving—add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

What’s the Best Cut of Beef for Beef Bourguignon?

Tougher cuts like chuck roast or brisket are ideal because they become incredibly tender during slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts—they can dry out and become tough.

Can I Freeze Leftover Beef Bourguignon?

Yes! Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Are There Vegetarian Alternatives?

If you’re looking for a meat-free version, try substituting mushrooms, carrots, potatoes, and lentils for the beef. Use vegetable broth and red wine for the base—it’ll still be hearty and delicious!

Final Thoughts: Enjoying Your Beef Bourguignon

No matter how you choose to serve it, Beef Bourguignon is sure to impress. Whether you go classic with mashed potatoes or try something new like creamy polenta, don’t forget those finishing touches—fresh herbs, crusty bread, and a great glass of wine make all the difference.

This dish is all about comfort and sharing good food with people you love. So set the table, pour yourself a glass of wine (or two!), and savor every bite of this French favorite. Bon appétit!