Keto beef stew is the ultimate mash-up of childhood nostalgia and grown-up keto savviness. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor, minus the carb overload. Made with tender beef, hearty veggies, and a savory broth, it’s the perfect meal for any chilly day. Plus, it’s easy to make and stores well for quick and easy leftovers!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 90 minutes | Total Time: 100 minutes | Servings: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Why This Keto Beef Stew Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

There’s nothing better than a hearty bowl of beef stew on a chilly evening, right? But if you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, those traditional recipes loaded with starchy veggies and flour thickeners are a no-go. That’s where this keto beef stew saves the day!

By swapping out the high-carb stuff for keto-friendly ingredients, you get all the rich, comforting flavors you love without messing up your low-carb game. This recipe transforms classic beef stew into a keto powerhouse that satisfies your cravings while keeping you in ketosis.

Want to know how to thicken beef stew without flour? Or maybe you’re craving beef stew with dumplings but need to keep it keto? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This recipe is packed with bold flavors and easy tips to keep things low-carb and totally delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Keto Beef Stew

This keto beef stew isn’t just another low-carb recipe. It’s pure comfort in a bowl. It’s hearty, flavorful, and super easy to make. Here’s why it’s a total winner:

• Big on Flavor: Garlic, thyme, rosemary, and parsley come together to give every bite a seriously delicious kick. The aromatic herbs infuse the broth with deep, savory notes that make this stew taste like it’s been simmering for hours.
• Full of Good Stuff: With protein-packed beef and fiber from radishes and celery, it’s as nourishing as it is filling. Each serving delivers substantial nutrients to keep you satisfied and energized.
• Keto-Friendly Thickener: Forget the carbs! Xanthan gum gives it that creamy, thick texture you love without adding any carbohydrates. It creates the perfect consistency that clings to your spoon.
• Easy on the Wallet: Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients. You don’t need expensive specialty items to create this restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch, and you’re set for the week. The flavors actually improve after a day or two in the refrigerator.

If making keto stews at home feels intimidating, don’t worry. Follow this easy guide, and you’ll whip up a bowl of guilt-free comfort food in no time. Even kitchen beginners can master this recipe with confidence.

Ingredients for the Perfect Keto Beef Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this easy beef stew. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating that perfect stew consistency:

• Beef Stew Meat: Choose well-marbled cuts like chuck roast or brisket for tender, juicy bites. The marbling breaks down during cooking, creating melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Beef Stock: Adds depth of flavor without additional carbs. Use unsalted or low-sodium stock to control the saltiness of your final dish.
• Tomato Paste: Adds a touch of tanginess and helps thicken the stew. Just two tablespoons provide rich umami flavor without excess carbs.
• Seasonings: Thyme, rosemary, and oregano bring savory, aromatic flavor. You’ll need one teaspoon of each! These dried herbs pack concentrated flavor.
• Parsley: Brightens the flavor and adds color. This herb balances the richness of the beef with a fresh, herbaceous note.
• Minced Garlic: Adds a flavorful kick. Use fresh garlic if you can for the most robust flavor and aromatic appeal.
• Radishes: Swap out high-carb potatoes for low-carb radishes to mimic their firm texture. When cooked, radishes lose their peppery bite and become wonderfully mild.
• Carrot: Adds a touch of sweetness without exceeding keto limits. One small carrot provides flavor and color while keeping carbs minimal.
• Celery: The perfect crisp, aromatic addition. Celery adds both texture and a subtle vegetal flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
• Onion: Provides aromatic base flavor. One small onion adds sweetness and depth without overwhelming the dish with carbs.
• Xanthan Gum: A keto-friendly thickener that gives the stew its hearty consistency. Just one teaspoon transforms thin broth into luxurious gravy.

Pro Tip: Want to add more variety? Try turnips in place of radishes or sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also add mushrooms for extra umami depth!

Ingredient Breakdown

How to Make Keto Beef Stew

Making this keto beef stew is surprisingly simple. The key is taking your time to brown the meat properly and letting everything simmer together to develop those deep, rich flavors. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meat on all sides for about 8 to 10 minutes total. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor through the Maillard reaction. Remove the browned beef and set aside.

Pro Tip: Pat the beef dry with paper towels before browning to ensure a good sear. Moisture is the enemy of browning!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot with the remaining oil and beef drippings, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent. The residual fond on the bottom of the pot will add extra flavor to your aromatics.

Step 3: Build the Base

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, allowing it to caramelize slightly. This deepens the tomato flavor and removes any raw taste. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, and parsley. Stir everything together for about 30 seconds to toast the herbs and release their essential oils.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Meat

Pour in the beef stock and water, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. These caramelized bits are packed with flavor! Return the browned beef to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Add the salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the stew simmer gently for 60 minutes. This slow cooking breaks down the connective tissue in the beef, making it incredibly tender. Check occasionally and give it a stir to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

After 60 minutes, add the radishes, carrot, and celery to the pot. Stir to combine everything evenly. Cover and continue simmering for another 20 to 30 minutes until the vegetables are fork-tender but still hold their shape.

Step 7: Thicken the Stew

In a small bowl, mix the xanthan gum with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. This prevents clumping when you add it to the hot stew. Slowly drizzle the slurry into the simmering stew while stirring constantly. The stew will thicken within 1 to 2 minutes. If you want it thicker, add a little more xanthan gum mixed with water.

Pro Tip: Start with less xanthan gum than you think you need. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!

Step 8: Taste and Adjust

Taste your stew and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for brightness. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tips for the Best Keto Beef Stew

• Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal because it has enough fat to stay juicy during long cooking. Avoid lean cuts that dry out easily.
• Don’t Skip the Browning: This step creates complex flavors through caramelization. It’s worth the extra time and effort for superior taste.
• Low and Slow is Key: Resist the urge to crank up the heat. Gentle simmering keeps the meat tender and allows flavors to develop properly.
• Use Quality Stock: Homemade or high-quality store-bought beef stock makes a noticeable difference. The stock is the foundation of your stew’s flavor.
• Add Vegetables at the Right Time: Adding them too early turns them to mush. The last 30 minutes is perfect for tender but intact vegetables.

Can You Make Beef Stew and Dumplings on Keto?

Yes! If you’re craving beef stew with dumplings, you can whip up a keto-friendly version using almond flour or coconut flour instead of regular flour. These low-carb alternatives create fluffy, delicious dumplings that soak up all that savory broth.

Add your dumpling batter toward the end of the simmering process and cover until cooked through. Usually 15 to 20 minutes is enough. Your keto beef stew goes from hearty to indulgent with this simple addition!

Storage, Serving, and FAQs

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keto beef stew stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. The flavors actually deepen and improve after a day or two in the refrigerator. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

Refrigerator Storage

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. The stew will thicken as it cools, which is perfectly normal. Simply add a splash of water or broth when reheating if needed.

Freezer Storage

This stew freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label with the date so you remember when you made it. To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes from refrigerated. You can also microwave individual portions for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a little water or broth if the stew seems too thick after reheating.

Pro Tip: Portion the stew into individual servings before freezing for quick grab-and-go lunches during busy weeks!

Serving Suggestions

This keto beef stew is delicious on its own, but here are some fantastic ways to elevate your meal:

• With Keto Bread: Serve alongside crusty keto bread or almond flour biscuits for dipping in the rich broth.
• Over Cauliflower Rice: Spoon the stew over cauliflower rice for an extra filling meal that soaks up every drop of gravy.
• With a Side Salad: Balance the richness with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for freshness.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or thyme just before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
• Add Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and tang that complements the savory beef perfectly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Based on 6 servings:

• Calories: 385
• Total Fat: 22g
• Protein: 35g
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 6g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the radishes for something else?

Absolutely! Turnips work wonderfully as a potato substitute and have a similar texture when cooked. You can also try daikon radish for a milder flavor. If you prefer, cauliflower florets add bulk and absorb flavors beautifully. Just remember that different vegetables have different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.

How do I thicken beef stew without flour on keto?

Xanthan gum is the easiest keto-friendly thickener and only requires a tiny amount. Alternatively, you can use glucomannan powder following similar instructions. Another option is to simply simmer the stew uncovered for an extra 15 to 20 minutes to reduce the liquid naturally. You can also blend a portion of the vegetables and stir them back in for natural thickening.

Can I make this in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! For a slow cooker, brown the beef first in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the beef, then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with natural release. Add the xanthan gum after cooking using the sauté function.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! This keto beef stew is completely dairy-free as written. If you want to add dairy elements, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top makes a delicious addition. But the base recipe contains no dairy products, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

How can I add more vegetables without increasing carbs?

Great low-carb vegetable additions include mushrooms, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and spinach. Mushrooms particularly add wonderful umami depth and meaty texture. Add heartier vegetables like zucchini during the last 20 minutes of cooking. Delicate greens like spinach should be stirred in during the final 5 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This keto beef stew proves that comfort food and healthy eating aren’t mutually exclusive. With tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it satisfies your cravings while keeping you on track with your keto goals. The best part is how versatile and forgiving this recipe is.

Whether you’re batch cooking for the week ahead or making a cozy dinner for tonight, this stew delivers every time. The leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to recipe for cold weather comfort.

So grab your Dutch oven and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds and your waistline will thank you. Once you taste how delicious keto cooking can be, you’ll never feel deprived again. Enjoy every warming, satisfying spoonful!

Keto Beef Stew

A hearty, low-carb beef stew made with tender beef, radishes, and aromatic herbs. Perfect comfort food with only 6g net carbs per serving!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds beef stew meat cubed chuck roast or brisket preferred
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef stock unsalted or low sodium
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons salt adjust to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups radishes tops and bottoms removed
• 1 small carrot roughly chopped
• 1 small onion roughly diced
• 4 stalks celery cut into large bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon xanthan gum

Instructions

 

• Brown the Beef
• Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add cubed beef in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
• Brown meat on all sides for 8-10 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
• Pro Tip: Pat beef dry with paper towels before browning for a better sear.
• Sauté the Aromatics
• In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic to the remaining oil and beef drippings.
• Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and onion becomes translucent.
• Build the Base
• Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
• Add dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, and parsley.
• Stir for 30 seconds to toast herbs and release essential oils.
• Add Liquids and Meat
• Pour in beef stock and water, scraping the bottom to release browned bits.
• Return browned beef to pot with any accumulated juices.
• Add salt and black pepper. Stir and bring to a boil.
• Simmer Until Tender
• Reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
• Simmer gently for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the Vegetables
• Add radishes, carrot, and celery to the pot.
• Stir to combine. Cover and simmer for another 20-30 minutes until vegetables are fork-tender.
• Thicken the Stew
• Mix xanthan gum with 2 tablespoons cold water to create a slurry.
• Slowly drizzle into simmering stew while stirring constantly.
• Stew will thicken within 1-2 minutes.
• Taste and Adjust
• Adjust seasoning if needed with more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar.
• Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Storage: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Substitutions: Replace radishes with turnips or daikon radish. Add mushrooms, zucchini, or green beans for variety.
Slow Cooker: Brown beef first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Instant Pot: Use sauté function to brown beef, then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with natural release.
Nutrition per serving: 385 calories | 22g fat | 35g protein | 8g total carbs | 2g fiber | 6g net carbs

Keyword keto beef stew