Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a cozy stew simmering on the stove, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. This Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is pure comfort food with all the hearty, classic flavors you crave, yet fully safe for anyone avoiding gluten. Succulent chunks of beef, tender root vegetables, and a savory, rich broth come together in a one-pot wonder that warms you from the inside out—perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings around the table!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this stew comes from a handful of honest ingredients, each playing a specific role. They provide a wonderful depth of flavor, robust texture, and a beautiful medley of colors—proof that simple basics can lead to something truly special.

• Beef chuck (2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes): The star of the show, boasting plenty of marbling for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness after a slow simmer.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps brown the meat and brings a subtle, fruity richness.
• Yellow onion (1 large, chopped): Adds a sweet and savory base flavor that underpins the whole stew.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): An aromatic punch that deepens the overall taste.
• Gluten-free beef broth (4 cups): Provides a savory, meaty foundation—be sure it’s labeled gluten-free!
• Dry red wine (1 cup, optional): Adds wonderful depth and acidity; use more broth if you prefer to skip alcohol.
• Carrots (4 large, peeled and sliced): For natural sweetness and cheerful color.
• Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced): Bring creaminess and body to the finished stew.
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Lends an earthy flavor and rustic crunch.
• Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Infuses the stew with a subtle tang and deep color.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): A must for its gentle herbal flavor and aroma.
• Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Offers a piney, woodsy note that complements the beef beautifully.
• Bay leaves (2): Classic stew ingredient for a hint of aromatic background complexity (remove before serving!)
• Cornstarch (2 tablespoons, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water): Ensures a thick, glossy finish without any gluten.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors into balance.
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): A pop of green freshness that finishes the dish beautifully.

How to Make Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating some olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches, making sure each piece develops a golden-brown crust. This is where big flavors begin to develop, so take your time and avoid overcrowding the pot. Once browned, set the beef aside and get ready for the aromatic base.

Step 2: Saute the Aromatics

In the same pot—don’t waste that glorious fond!—add your chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and fragrant, about five minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute more, making sure it doesn’t burn. This duo lays down a savory-sweet flavor that forms the backbone of your stew.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Now it’s time to add the tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Let the tomato paste cook out a bit so it loses any hint of rawness, and stir everything together. This is also when you return the browned beef (and any tasty juices) to the pot—there’s no flavor left behind in a proper Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe!

Step 4: Simmer the Stew

Pour in the gluten-free beef broth and, if you’re using it, the red wine. Scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom (that’s where flavor lives!). Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 hours. The beef will start to tenderize beautifully during this time.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Uncover the pot and stir in your carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cover again and continue simmering for another 45 minutes. By now, the meat will be wonderfully tender, and the vegetables will be perfectly soft but not falling apart—just right for a satisfying bite.

Step 6: Thicken and Finish

Mix up the cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water), then stir it into the simmering stew. Let it cook for another 5–10 minutes, and watch as the broth transforms into a luscious, thick consistency. Season with a generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper, remove the bay leaves, and sprinkle with parsley if desired. Your Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is ready to earn rave reviews!

How to Serve Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe

Garnishes

Just before serving, I love to add a flourish of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You could also try thinly sliced chives, a crumble of crispy bacon, or even a dollop of dairy-free yogurt for extra creaminess. Feel free to have fun with it—your Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe deserves a finishing touch that makes it shine!

Side Dishes

This stew really is a meal in a bowl, but if you’d like something on the side, I recommend crusty gluten-free bread for soaking up every last drop, a simple mixed green salad to lighten things up, or classic roasted green beans. Mashed potatoes or gluten-free polenta are also delicious choices for extra comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

You don’t have to stick to bowls! Try ladling the stew into hollowed-out baked potatoes, over creamy grits, or even tucked into little ramekins with a gluten-free biscuit top (think mini pot pies). Presenting your Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe this way not only impresses guests, but adds some playful excitement to weeknight dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stew is one of life’s greatest joys—something about the flavors just gets better overnight. Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It makes a fabulous lunch or quick dinner the next day!

Freezing

Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe is a perfect make-ahead freezer hero. Simply cool the stew completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and reheats beautifully, so you always have comfort food on hand.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the consistency. You can also microwave individual portions for quick, cozy meals in minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While beef chuck gives you the best tenderness and flavor for a Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe, cuts like brisket or stewing beef also work nicely—just make sure to give them enough time to become meltingly tender.

What makes this stew gluten-free?

The recipe uses gluten-free beef broth and cornstarch instead of flour for thickening. Double-check ingredient labels, especially on the broth and tomato paste, to make sure everything is certified gluten-free and safe for everyone at the table.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown your beef and sautée the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the rest of the ingredients (except for the cornstarch slurry and garnishes), and cook on low for 7-8 hours. Stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes to thicken.

What can I use instead of potatoes?

If you’d prefer something different or lower in carbs, swap the potatoes for parsnips, turnips, or diced sweet potatoes. Each will add its own unique twist to this classic Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe!

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, peas, or hearty greens during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, adjusting the timing so they stay tender yet vibrant.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for something truly satisfying and nourishing, give this Gluten-Free Beef Stew Recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and couldn’t be easier to whip up, whether you’re making dinner just for yourself or for a table full of family and friends. Grab your biggest pot, let those rich aromas fill your kitchen, and enjoy every spoonful!

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