Name: Irresistible French Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 3 carrots, sliced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon flour; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 8 oz mushrooms, halved; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Irresistible French Beef is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender beef with a savory French-inspired sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish features a deep, caramelized flavor from slow-cooked beef paired with aromatic herbs, onions, creating a truly comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French beef recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant, restaurant-quality dish. The beef becomes incredibly tender, infused with the rich flavors of onions, garlic, and herbs, while the sauce adds a luxurious touch. It’s perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Irresistible French Beef

Ingredients

2 pounds (900 g) beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped, or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional: sliced mushrooms for added depth of flavor

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the beef:
Season the beef cubes generously with salt and black pepper.
Brown the beef:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics:
In the same pan, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another 1–2 minutes.
Create the sauce:
Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to form a roux. Gradually add beef broth stirring constantly until smooth.
Add seasonings:
Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer the beef:
Return the beef to the pan, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until beef is tender. If using mushrooms, add them during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Finish with butter:
Stir in unsalted butter for a glossy, rich sauce before serving.
Serve:
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Mushroom French Beef: Add sliced mushrooms during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking for added depth.
Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef and sauté onions, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Spicy French Beef: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the sauce.
Herb Variation: Use a mix of thyme, rosemary, and parsley for a fresh herb flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, beef stew meat or short ribs work well for this dish.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and sauté onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, carrots, potatoes, and celery can be added during simmering.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Mix 1–2 teaspoons of cornstarch with water and stir into the sauce during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount of dried herbs as fresh since they are more concentrated.

How do I prevent the beef from drying out?

Simmer on low heat and keep the pan covered to retain moisture.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving.

What should I serve with French beef?

Mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, or crusty bread are excellent accompaniments.

Conclusion

Irresistible French Beef is a tender, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings the elegance of French cooking to your kitchen. With a rich, aromatic sauce and melt-in-your-mouth beef, it’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you want a hearty, satisfying meal.

Chef MARTHA