Gluten Free Homestyle Beef and Noodles

 Gluten-Free Homestyle Beef and Noodles is a comforting and hearty dish made with tender beef, a savory broth, and gluten-free noodles. This version takes the classic homestyle beef and noodles to a gluten-free level, so everyone can enjoy it. It's perfect for a cozy dinner, filled with delicious, simple flavors. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

For the Beef:

1 lb stew beef or beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups beef broth (ensure it's gluten-free)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)

1 bay leaf

For the Noodles:

8 oz gluten-free egg noodles (or your preferred gluten-free pasta)

Salt, for pasta water

For the Gravy Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free flour blend)

1 cup beef broth (from the cooked beef)

1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Brown the Beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot in batches (to avoid overcrowding) and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

1. Cook Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

3. Add the Broth and Seasoning:

1. Deglaze the Pot: Add a splash of beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

2. Simmer the Beef: Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the 4 cups of beef broth. Add the dried thyme, rosemary (if using), and bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

3. Cook the Beef: Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

4. Cook the Noodles:

1. Boil the Noodles: While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten-free noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

5. Make the Gravy Sauce:

1. Melt Butter: In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

2. Add Flour: Sprinkle in the gluten-free flour and whisk it continuously to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s lightly golden.

3. Add Broth: Slowly whisk in 1 cup of beef broth (reserved from the beef pot) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it thicken for a few minutes.

4. Add Cream (Optional): If you want a creamier gravy, add the heavy cream at this stage and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine and Serve:

1. Mix Everything Together: Once the beef is tender, add the cooked gluten-free noodles to the beef mixture. Stir in the gravy sauce and cook everything together for a few minutes until heated through.

2. Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the beef and noodles hot, garnished with fresh herbs or extra cracked pepper if desired.

Tips:

Beef Variations: You can use other cuts of beef, such as flank steak or brisket, as long as they are cooked until tender.

Make-Ahead: The beef and noodles can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

Vegetables: Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms to the pot for extra flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free Homestyle Beef and Noodles is a satisfying and comforting meal that brings together tender beef, savory gravy, and gluten-free noodles, making it perfect for family dinners or any time you're craving classic homestyle comfort food. Enjoy!