Name: Gluten Free Gravy Made Easy: Flavor-Packed Comfort Without the Wheat
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; 2 cups gluten-free broth (chicken, beef, or veggie); 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder; 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry); 1 tablespoon tamari (gluten-free soy sauce); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Black pepper to taste; Optional: splash of unsweetened almond milk; Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Optional: 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms

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Nothing stirs up memories quite like homemade gravy. For me, it started on a rainy Thanksgiving in Georgia. My aunt, who had just learned she had Celiac disease, stood over the stove determined not to miss out. Armed with cornstarch and determination, she whipped up her first-ever gluten free gravy—and honestly, it was better than anything I’d ever tasted.

Today, I’m sharing not just a gluten free gravy recipe, but the soul behind it: comfort without compromise. Whether you’re on a gluten-free diet or simply curious about how to give your gravy a twist, this recipe celebrates bold taste and inclusive eating. We’ll cover ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful substitutions, time-saving tips, common FAQs, and more. Plus, I’ll point you toward some mouthwatering brown gravy recipes and more ways to upgrade your homemade gravy game.

Comfort in a Ladle: Why Gluten Free Gravy Is So Worth It

A Southern-Inspired Return to Tradition

Every Sunday, we’d gather around the table, steaming biscuits in hand, and pour dark, savory gravy over everything from mashed potatoes to tender roast beef. What made it special wasn’t the flour—it was the depth of flavor. It took me years to realize that no one missed anything when we left gluten behind. Gluten free gravy starts where stories do—in heartful kitchens, simmering with love.

Today’s options are far better than the boxed mixes of the past. By choosing naturally gluten-free ingredients and thickeners, you can recreate classic flavors while catering to all your guests’ dietary needs. And let’s be honest: who doesn’t want to dip a fluffy gluten-free biscuit into a rich, silky sauce that everyone can enjoy?

When adapting familiar dishes like biscuits and gravy, the gravy’s texture and depth become key. A good gluten free base elevates everything around it—and your guests will ask for second helpings before they realize it’s missing traditional flour.

Smart Swaps for a Rich, Saucy Upgrade

When I first started experimenting with gluten free gravy, I was determined not to lose flavor. After all, gravy should hug the dish, not just sit on it. Instead of traditional roux (made with wheat flour), I went with cornstarch—gluten-free and incredibly smooth. Other options like arrowroot powder and sweet rice flour also delivered great results.

If you love a deep stock-based sauce, you might enjoy this savory, classic turkey gravy recipe that works seamlessly with gluten-free substitutions. Whether poured over mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, gluten free gravy ensures you’re not skipping out on your favorite comfort foods.

How to Make Gluten Free Gravy That Actually Tastes Better

Ingredients List: Every Component Counts

Let’s talk ingredients. You only need a short list of pantry staples—most of which you may already have.

Ingredient	Details & Substitutions
Gluten-Free Broth (Beef, Chicken, or Veggie)	Make sure it’s labeled gluten-free; homemade is best!
Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder	For thickening—both are gluten-free.
Butter or Olive Oil	For richness; use ghee for paleo-friendly twist.
Tamari (Gluten-Free Soy Sauce)	Adds saltiness and umami.
Garlic, Onion Powder, Black Pepper	Seasoning to taste.

Want to make it creamy? Add a splash of unsweetened almond milk. Up the umami? Try mushrooms or miso paste.

Timing: Quick Comfort in Under 15 Minutes

Making gluten free gravy doesn’t need to take all afternoon. From start to finish, you’re looking at roughly 10–15 minutes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes flat

That’s nearly 30% faster than a classic roux-based sauce and with less babysitting at the stove.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Foolproof Gravy

In a medium saucepan, melt two tablespoons of butter (or heat two tablespoons of olive oil) over medium heat.
Whisk in two cups of gluten-free broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry.
Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering broth, whisking constantly. The mixture will begin to thicken in 1–2 minutes.
Add 1 tablespoon tamari, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and black pepper to taste.
Optional add-ins: a splash of almond milk, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, or 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms.
Cook while stirring for another 3–5 minutes until thick and glossy.
Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Microwaving leftovers? Just whisk and reheat—it thickens wonderfully again. For a twist on this method, see how we do it in our all-purpose gravy recipe right here.

Tips, Swaps & Nutrition Know-How

What to Substitute for Flour in Gravy

Flour-free gravy doesn’t mean flavor-free. Our top choices for thickening include:

Cornstarch: Classic, neutral flavor, works fast.
Arrowroot Flour: Slightly glossier finish, freezes well.
Sweet Rice Flour: Adds subtle sweetness, great for Asian dishes.

A fantastic resource breaking down gluten-free flour types comes from the National Celiac Association. They explain when and how to use gluten-free starches effectively.

Some adventurous cooks even try tapioca flour or chickpea flour, though the textures can vary. For savory, traditional flavor, I still swear by cornstarch.

Extra Flavor Boosts You Should Try

Once you nail the base, don’t be afraid to experiment. A pinch of smoked paprika brings warmth. Fresh rosemary and thyme lift the aroma. Grated parmesan gives the whole pot a subtle cheesy undertone.

One of my favorites? A ladle poured over turkey seasoned with this savory turkey rub marinated with herbs and butter the night before. The balance of umami and herbaceous flavor is unmatched.

You can even adapt the sausage gravy recipe using the gluten free base for a hearty breakfast option.

Serving It Up Right: Pairings & Storage

What to Serve with Gluten Free Gravy

Gluten free gravy pairs beautifully with holiday mains and weekday dinners. Here are just a few ideas:

Over mashed potatoes
Baked turkey with turkey marinade
Cauliflower mash for low-carb delight
Gluten-free stuffing
Roasted root vegetables

If you’re looking for even more ways to elevate your meal, learn how to make gravy from scratch like a professional without stretching your budget or pantry.

How to Store and Reheat Like a Pro

Gravy leftovers? You’re in luck. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.

Freezing? Use freezer-safe zip bags, pressed flat. Reheat over medium heat and stir constantly until smooth. Arrowroot-based gravies tend to freeze best, but cornstarch versions work well too if you stir gently.

Whether you’re prepping ahead for holiday dinner or want a quick addition to meatloaf night, gluten free gravy keeps beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which gravy is gluten-free?
Gravy made with gluten-free broth and thickeners like cornstarch or arrowroot is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check store-bought options or seasoning mixes.

How to make your own gluten-free gravy?
Start with a rich broth, thicken it with a gluten-free starch slurry, and season well. See our guide above for full steps to nail the taste and texture!

What can I substitute for flour in gravy?
Cornstarch, arrowroot powder, and sweet rice flour are excellent flour substitutes, depending on the flavor, consistency, and whether you plan to freeze it.

How do you thicken gravy without gluten?
Use a starch-based slurry made with cold water and your thickener of choice. Add it to hot broth and stir until it thickens. Easy, fast, and totally wheat-free.

Conclusion

Gravy is more than a condiment—it’s the rich, drizzly glue that brings a meal together. And going gluten-free? That shouldn’t change a thing. Whether you’re adapting an old family recipe or crafting something bold and new, gluten free gravy is easy to master, delicious, and wildly versatile. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours at the stove. Just a few swaps, some pantry staples, and perhaps a story or two to stir in with the sauce.

Ready to crank the flavor volume up with every ladle? Give this recipe a try, make it your own, and remember—the best dishes are the ones everyone can enjoy.

Gluten Free Gravy Made Easy: Flavor-Packed Comfort Without the Wheat