What to Serve with Beef Bourguignon: 26+ Perfect Side Dishes
I’m so excited to explore what to serve with beef bourguignon. This classic French dish, also called boeuf bourguignon, pairs tender beef with red wine, thyme, and hearty flavors.
Each savory bite feels like comfort food, especially if you follow Julia Child’s approach.
You want sides that balance the rich red wine sauce. For me, that might mean simple side ideas or the best side dishes that suit a dinner party.
Let’s look at ways you can add the beef stew experience to your table with plenty of variety.
What is Beef Bourguignon?
Boeuf bourguignon is a slow-cooked meal from Burgundy that blends beef, broth, and red wine. I love how each bite feels hearty. Pearl onions, mushrooms, and parsley add fresh color. You can use a Dutch oven or instant pot, then simmer everything until the beef is very tender and delicious.
What to Serve with Beef Bourguignon?
I think it’s worth picking the best sides that highlight the beef cubes and gravy. You want a dish that pairs contrast with tender chunks of beef for a balanced meal.
Vegetable Side Dishes
Fresh greens bring color to your plate. I enjoy how they brighten a rich red wine sauce. You can find them served on the side.
- Green Beans Almondine: Toss your beans with toasted almonds after a quick blanch. I once made them for a dinner party, and guests loved that extra crunchy texture with a sophisticated side vibe.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Halve each sprout, olive oil, and roast until edges brown. I appreciate how the mild bitterness contrasts with the red wine sauce. You might add the carrots for a vibrant plate.
- Asparagus with Dijon Mustard: This delightful side dish combines the earthy sweetness of asparagus with the spiced umami of Dijon mustard. I tried this recipe during spring. You might drizzle a little broth if you want extra moisture for each bite.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steam florets until bright green. I enjoy them with a sprinkle of salt. You could serve the stew alongside for a quick and easy side dish that pairs well.
- Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips: Coat each stick with honey and butter. I used a slotted spoon to remove the beef once, then tossed the veggies in that same pan. They tasted sweet and buttery.
- Cheesy Garlic Broccoli: Sprinkle shredded cheese over lightly cooked stems. I remember making it for a cozy winter gathering. You might find it turns your table into a bright, comfort food spread.
Easy Salads
Crisp greens and tangy dressings brighten your plate. I find they cut through a rich gravy. You might discover they spark flavors in each bite.
- Simple Green Salad: Combine lettuce, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes and fresh green parsley. I enjoy that crisp texture next to a simmer of gravy. You can do it in minutes for a fresh side salad.
- French Bistro Salad: Toss mixed greens, very light vinaigrette, and maybe some goat cheese. I remember making this salad for a family dinner on Independence Day. Your guests might relish that bright note among heavier dishes.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: Dice both, then dress with olive oil and vinegar. I tossed in onions once for extra bite. You might love how everything feels light next to that bold beef dish.
- Caesar Salad: Tear romaine, add creamy dressing, and top with croutons. I prefer homemade ones for extra crunch. You might find it balances the red wine sauce with a tangy, savory finish.
- Lemon Arugula Salad: Toss peppery leaves with fresh lemon juice. I enjoy how that citrus spark hits my tongue. You can add the bacon and cook a crisp topping for more salty notes.
Bread Options
Crusty loaves make a perfect match for scooping up gravy. I’ve seen them at many dinners. You can enjoy them with each luscious serving suggestion.
- Garlic Bread: Rub slices with fresh garlic, then bake with butter and herbs. I think it pairs well with any French dish. You could even top it with cheese for extra fun.
- Crusty French Baguette: Slices soak up the burgundy flavors with ease. I once set out some butter, and it felt so very fancy. You can enjoy each bite with that hearty beef stew.
- Sourdough Bread: Slice thick and serve warm. I have tried it with a dab of garlic and tomato paste. You might see how tangy bread balances that deep red wine sauce.
- Homemade Dinner Rolls: Knead dough, shape, and bake until golden. I remember a dinner party where these disappeared fast. You might place them beside that best stew for a very cozy finishing touch.
- Herb Focaccia: Press dough flat and poke holes. I like tossing fresh rosemary on top. You could slice it into squares. Everyone can tear a piece to capture that rich savory gravy.
Starchy Side Dishes
Favorites help mop up the rich red wine sauce. I enjoy how these sides keep everything comforting. You might even serve them for a dinner party.
- Jasmine Rice: Steam a batch with beef stock instead of water if you want extra flavor. I once sprinkled fresh parsley on top, and that turned dinner into a simple side delight.
- Roasted Red Potatoes: Season chunks with thyme and olive oil. I like them browned on all sides for a crispy edge. You might find they pair well with boeuf bourguignon or other meats.
- Egg Noodles: Cook them until tender but not mushy. I love how the noodles soak up the red wine sauce. You can add the beef right on top for an easy meal.
- Couscous: Fluff it gently with a fork. I once added diced tomatoes and a dash of thyme. Your dinner party guests may love how this grain catches every drop of gravy.
- German Spätzle: Make these little noodles from scratch or buy them ready. I tried them under beef stew, and I couldn’t stop. You might see them in many best beef bourguignon suggestions.
Hearty and Creamy Sides
Warm and smooth options balance a broth-filled main dish. I have found these choices fill your plate with cozy vibes and highlight every savory note.
- Mashed Potatoes: Soften peeled spuds and mash them with butter. I recall a dinner party where people praised that creamy texture. You might even drizzle some leftover burgundy sauce for extra flavor.
- Mushroom Truffle Risotto: Simmer arborio rice in beef broth for extra depth. I once tried topping it with shaved truffle. You’ll adore how each spoonful pairs with tender chunks of savory beef cubes.
- Garlic Butter Mashed Cauliflower: Boil florets until soft and blend with garlic. I made this for a quick and easy side dish that felt lighter than potatoes. You might enjoy that smooth, creamy finish.
- Baked Mac and Cheese: Layer noodles, cheese, and milk, then bake until golden. I once added diced bacon to the pot for extra richness. You might do the same for a dinner party treat.
- Creamy Polenta: Stir cornmeal in warm beef broth. I like adding a pat of butter at the end. Your hearty beef stew can rest on top of polenta for a comforting match.
Desserts
Sweet treats wrap up your meal with a smile. I always welcome that contrast. You can pick from many favorites, including chocolate or fruit-based goodies.
- Classic French: Try a simple creme brulee or pot de creme. I love how these smooth desserts cap off a slow-cooker meal. You might discover they highlight every leftover tasty morsel.
- Chocolate Dessert: Pick a mousse or cake. I once served a rich chocolate treat after a hearty beef bourguignon recipe. You might see how deep sweet flavors balance a savory main meal.
- Fruit-Based Choices: Sliced apples or pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon taste fresh. I once had them after boeuf bourguignon. You can enjoy that nice light sweetness after a red wine simmer.
Final Thoughts
I’m glad we explored these side dishes for beef bourguignon. Each option, from starchy basics to sweet endings, can enhance your experience. I encourage you to try this recipe at home with simple steps.
Gather a large Dutch oven over medium heat or pick an instant pot if you prefer. Remember to reduce the heat to medium or medium-low heat when needed.
Return the beef and bacon together for maximum flavor. With thoughtful choices, everyone gets to share in a comforting, memorable meal. Savor each bite. It’s worth every effort.
