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Cream Cheese Beef Gravy (No-Carb)

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Cream Cheese Beef Gravy (No-Carb): A Rich, Velvety Low-Carb Sauce

Craving a rich, creamy gravy that pairs perfectly with your favorite meats or veggies without the carbs? This Cream Cheese Beef Gravy is your go-to solution! Made with just a handful of ingredients, this no-carb sauce combines the savory depth of beef broth with the silky smoothness of cream cheese for a luxurious, keto-friendly topping. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s ideal for drizzling over steak, roast beef, meatballs, or even steamed vegetables. Simple, versatile, and bursting with flavor, this gravy elevates any low-carb meal to gourmet status. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Beef Gravy

This Cream Cheese Beef Gravy is a game-changer for low-carb diets and beyond:

  • No-Carb Delight: Perfect for keto, low-carb, or diabetic-friendly meals.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in 10-15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
  • Versatile: Complements meats, vegetables, or even low-carb noodles.
  • Rich and Creamy: Cream cheese creates a velvety texture without flour or starch.

Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just love a good gravy, this recipe is a must-have for your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

To make this Cream Cheese Beef Gravy, you’ll need:

  • 2 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
    Provides a savory, meaty base; low-sodium allows better seasoning control.
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into chunks
    Creates a creamy, rich texture without carbs.
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional)
    Adds extra richness and depth.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
    Enhances savory flavor.
  • ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
    Adds a subtle, aromatic kick.
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
    Seasons the gravy perfectly.
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (optional)
    Adds a fresh, colorful garnish.

Yield: Serves 4-6 (about 2 cups of gravy)
Calories per serving: ~150 kcal (based on 6 servings, varies with butter)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Cream Cheese Beef Gravy:

  1. Warm the Broth
    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring 2 cups beef broth to a gentle simmer (about 2-3 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
  2. Add the Cream Cheese
    Reduce heat to low. Add 4 oz softened cream cheese in small chunks, whisking continuously until fully melted and smooth (about 2-3 minutes). If the cream cheese clumps, use a whisk or immersion blender to smooth it out.
  3. Season the Gravy
    Whisk in 2 tbsp butter (if using), 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed for your preference.
  4. Simmer to Thicken
    Let the gravy simmer on low for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until it reaches your desired thickness. It will thicken slightly as it cools.
  5. Serve
    Pour the gravy over steak, roast beef, meatballs, chicken, or steamed vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color (optional).

Serving Suggestions

  • Meats: Drizzle over grilled steak, roasted pork, meatballs, or pan-seared chicken for a rich, savory finish.
  • Vegetables: Pair with low-carb veggies like roasted zucchini, cauliflower mash, or steamed asparagus.
  • Keto Dishes: Serve over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or keto meatloaf for a complete low-carb meal.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flair.

Pro Tips for Perfect Gravy

  1. Soften Cream Cheese
    Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 1 hour or microwave in 10-second bursts until soft (not melted) to prevent clumping. Cut into small chunks for faster melting.
  2. Avoid Milk Skin
    As noted in your earlier milk article, if you add milk (not in this recipe), stir constantly and keep below 176°F (80°C) to prevent casein film. This recipe’s broth avoids this issue.
  3. Smooth Texture
    Use an immersion blender or whisk vigorously for a silky-smooth gravy. If lumps form, blend briefly or strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
  4. Flavor Variations
    • Mushroom Gravy: Sauté ½ cup sliced mushrooms in 1 tbsp butter before adding broth.
    • Herb-Infused: Add 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary during simmering.
    • Spicy Kick: Mix in ¼ tsp cayenne or 1 tsp hot sauce for heat.
  5. Thicker Gravy
    Simmer longer (5-7 minutes) or add an extra 1 oz cream cheese for a thicker consistency without carbs.
  6. Thin It Out
    If too thick, add 1-2 tbsp more broth or water and whisk until smooth.
  7. Use Quality Broth
    Homemade beef broth or high-quality low-sodium store-bought (e.g., Kettle & Fire) enhances flavor. Avoid overly salty brands.
  8. Storage and Reheating
    • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on low heat, stirring to prevent separation.
    • Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly, whisking to restore texture.
  9. Make It Dairy-Free
    Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative (e.g., Kite Hill) and use vegan butter or olive oil. Ensure broth is dairy-free.
  10. Batch Size Adjustment
    Double the recipe (4 cups broth, 8 oz cream cheese, etc.) for larger meals. Simmer slightly longer to thicken.
See also  Old Fashioned Goulash

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Yes! Chicken broth creates a lighter gravy, perfect for poultry or veggies. Use low-sodium to control saltiness.

2. Why is my gravy lumpy?
Lumps form if the cream cheese is too cold or not whisked thoroughly. Soften cream cheese first and use an immersion blender for smoothness.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 3 days in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat, stirring to maintain texture.

4. Is this gravy truly no-carb?
Yes, it’s virtually carb-free (cream cheese and broth have negligible carbs). Check labels for store-bought broth, as some may contain trace carbs.

5. Can I add other flavors?
Yes! Try 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce for umami, ½ tsp smoked paprika for depth, or 1 tbsp sautéed onions for sweetness.

6. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
Substitute with 4 oz mascarpone or heavy cream (simmer longer to thicken). Avoid sour cream, as it may curdle.

7. Can I use this gravy for non-keto dishes?
Absolutely! It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for non-low-carb diets, though this adds carbs.

8. How do I prevent the gravy from separating?
Keep heat low when reheating and whisk constantly. If it separates, blend with an immersion blender to emulsify.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

  • Calories: ~150 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: ~1g (negligible)
  • Protein: ~3g (from broth and cream cheese)
  • Fat: ~14g (from cream cheese and butter)
  • Note: Values are approximate and depend on portion size and optional ingredients.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Cream Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
  • Beef Broth: Adds minerals like potassium and magnesium.
  • Low-Carb: Ideal for keto, diabetic, or low-carb diets.

Dietary Information:

  • No-carb, keto-friendly, gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan cream cheese and butter.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Beef Gravy (No-Carb) is a rich, velvety sauce that transforms any low-carb meal into a comforting, gourmet experience. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and quick preparation, it’s perfect for keto dieters, meat lovers, or anyone craving a versatile gravy. Our tips and FAQs ensure you’ll make a smooth, delicious gravy every time. Grab your ingredients, simmer away, and elevate your next meal with this decadent, no-carb delight!