Let me introduce you to my all-time favorite comfort dish: this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe. It’s rich, hearty, and brimming with flavor in every spoonful, thanks to deeply browned beef, sweet carrots, fluffy potatoes, and a fragrant mix of herbs all simmered together in a savory, gluten-free broth. Whether you serve it on a chilly weeknight or as the soul-warming centerpiece of a family Sunday dinner, this stew will have everyone dipping back in for seconds—no one will ever guess it’s gluten-free!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s most magical about this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is how it transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal. Each element brings its own special something—richness, sweetness, heartiness, or color—so don’t skip a thing if you can help it!
- Beef chuck (2 pounds, cubed): The essential building block for a stew that’s melt-in-your-mouth tender and full of rich flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing the beef and unlocking all those golden brown bits that become the foundation of savory depth.
- Onion (1 large, chopped): Provides subtle sweetness and aromatic backbone to every bite.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Just a few cloves introduce a wonderful garlicky zip throughout the stew.
- Gluten-free beef broth (4 cups): This is the liquid gold that ensures every spoonful is 100% gluten-free and outrageously delicious.
- Dry red wine (1 cup, optional): A splash, if you use it, adds depth and complexity, but you can sub extra broth too.
- Carrots (3 large, sliced): Their sweetness balances the savory richness and brings cheerful color.
- Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced): For creamy bites that soak up all the broth—try Yukon Gold for extra buttery notes.
- Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Adds a subtle earthy and herbaceous crunch to the stew’s base.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Brings a gentle tang and thick, luscious texture to the broth.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon, gluten-free): Delivers a savory, umami punch—check labels to confirm it’s gluten-free!
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Essential for those classic stew flavors and unmistakable aroma.
- Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Just enough for a beautifully fragrant, herbal background.
- Bay leaves (2): Infuse a delicate layer of flavor throughout the simmer.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Don’t be shy—these bring out every bit of flavor from the ingredients.
- Cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water, optional): Stir in at the end for a thicker, glossy stew if you like.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): The finishing pop of green to make every bowl feel special.
How to Make Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by heating your olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the beef cubes and sear them until they’re browned on all sides. Don’t rush this part; let each side caramelize—that’s where so much of the stew’s deep, savory flavor takes shape. Set the seared beef aside when done.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot (don’t clean it, that’s where all those tasty bits are!), toss in the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, just until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic next, stirring constantly for about a minute—this is when your kitchen will start to smell irresistible.
Step 3: Build the Foundation
Return all the browned beef (and any juices collected) back into the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, coating everything well so the beef and onion pick up its vibrant, zingy flavor. This step adds that classic stew thickness and the faintest sweetness from the tomato paste, setting your Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe up for greatness.
Step 4: Deglaze and Add Liquids
Pour in your red wine if using (or more broth if not), and gently scrape up all those golden brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—this is flavor central! Add the gluten-free beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, and give everything a thorough mix to combine the layers of flavors.
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Simmer
To finish your stew’s masterpiece base, stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer away for about 2 hours. Slow simmering makes the beef fork-tender, the veggies soft but never mushy, and the broth ultra-rich. Take a moment to breathe in the aroma—your patience will be well rewarded.
Step 6: Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you like your stew extra thick and luscious, stir in the cornstarch and water mixture during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Leave the lid off and let it bubble gently until it thickens up, embracing all the vegetables and beef in a velvety sauce.
Step 7: Finish and Adjust Seasoning
Once everything is fork-tender and thick, fish out the bay leaves and taste as you go—add more salt and pepper if you’d like. Sprinkle a generous handful of chopped parsley over the top, and your Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is ready for its grand debut.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes time to serve, think fresh and vibrant. A generous shower of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of green and balances out the deep, rich flavors. For a rustic touch, try a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or even a little lemon zest for contrast. The finishing touch makes every bowl feel like it belongs on a bistro table!
Side Dishes
This Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is so hearty it can stand on its own, but it loves a companion. Serve it with a loaf of your favorite gluten-free bread for sopping up the flavorful broth, or a side of fluffy white or brown rice. Roasted broccolini, simple steamed green beans, or a crisp green salad will round out the meal beautifully, and add a touch of freshness to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party idea, serve your stew in small bowls or mugs with a mini spoon for cozy, casual gatherings. If you’re making a big batch, try presenting it “family style” in a big Dutch oven straight at the table. Or, ladle the stew over creamy mashed potatoes or parsnip puree for a truly decadent twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the absolute best qualities of this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is how the flavors continue to deepen overnight. Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. You’ll find the stew tastes even richer and more complex the next day!
Freezing
Want to prep ahead? This recipe freezes beautifully! Portion cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (leave a little room for expansion), and store for up to three months. Just label and date your containers so you’re always ready for a quick, comforting meal on demand.
Reheating
When hunger strikes, reheat your stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until it’s piping hot, stirring occasionally. If the stew seems a bit too thick after chilling or freezing, simply add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to your desired consistency. Microwave reheating works in a pinch—cover the bowl loosely and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each, until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing your aromatics, transfer everything into your slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours (or on high for about 4 to 5 hours) until the beef is tender and the veggies are soft. Add the cornstarch slurry during the last hour if a thicker stew is your style.
What are the best cuts of beef for stew?
Beef chuck is the classic choice for its perfect blend of lean meat and marbling, which becomes fall-apart tender during a long simmer. You could also use bottom round or brisket in a pinch, but steer clear of leaner cuts so your stew stays juicy and flavorful.
Are all brands of Worcestershire sauce gluten-free?
No, not all are created equal—many traditional Worcestershire sauces contain barley malt vinegar or other gluten-containing ingredients. Always read the label carefully and seek out certified gluten-free brands to keep your stew safe for everyone at the table.
Can I substitute the potatoes in this recipe?
Definitely! For a twist, replace potatoes with diced sweet potatoes or turnips for a slightly different flavor profile and texture. Both are wonderful if you’re aiming for a Paleo or lower-carb version without sacrificing that hearty feel.
How can I make this stew alcohol-free?
Simply omit the red wine and use an extra cup of gluten-free beef broth instead. You’ll still end up with a deeply savory, beautiful stew—no wine required!
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of anything more satisfying than a bubbling pot of this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe on the stove, filling the house with comforting aromas. Whether you’re new to gluten-free cooking or simply craving something cozy and classic, this is one recipe that always delivers. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request in your kitchen!
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Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Gluten-Free Beef Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for chilly nights. Tender beef simmered with vegetables in a rich, savory broth, this stew is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups gluten-free beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine (optional, or substitute with more broth)
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (ensure gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Beef: Add beef cubes in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Set aside.
- Cook Aromatics: In the same pot, cook the onion until softened, then add garlic and cook briefly.
- Add Ingredients: Return beef to the pot, add tomato paste, wine, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, vegetables, and seasonings.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2 hours until beef is tender.
- Thicken (Optional): For a thicker stew, add cornstarch slurry during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust and Serve: Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, marinate the beef in red wine and herbs before cooking.
- To make it Paleo, substitute turnips or sweet potatoes for regular potatoes.
- Always verify Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
