You know those classic French dishes Julia Child made look easy, but are actually really complicated and high-maintenance? You feel like you should know how to make them, but let’s be honest: It’s way easier to just order beef bourguignon from your favorite restaurant. But you don’t need Julia levels of patience and skill to pull off these easier, “cheater’s” versions (and they’re très delicious).
7 Cheater’s Recipes for Classic, Fancy French Dinners
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Published Feb 5, 2018
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
Cheater’s Slow-cooker Beef Bourguignon
You’re too busy to stand over the stove. Instead, throw everything into your Crock-Pot for magically tender, flavorful results.
30-minute One-pot Cheater’s Bouillabaisse
Easy to whip up at the last minute, this rich, warming broth calls for just a few types of seafood (instead of seven).
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
Cheater’s Confit
Ready to try the fanciest French recipe at home? This version is almost completely hands-off and can be made with duck or chicken legs.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
Slow-cooker French Onion Soup
Your Crock-Pot helps you get deep, rich, caramelized broth, then pop it in the broiler at the end for maximum cheesiness.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
Cheater’s White Wine Coq Au Vin
It’s ready in under an hour and totally foolproof. Plus, it’s made with dry white wine instead of red for an elegant twist.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
Moules-frites
Whip up this showstopper in just 30 minutes. (We won’t tell if you use frozen fries, promise.)
Erin McDowell
Ratatouille
It’s not just the name of a cartoon mouse. Made with tons of veggies, our favorite hearty side dish comes together in less than an hour and will make everyone say, “oh la-la.”
