Is Gravy Gluten-Free?
Quick Answer
No, most gravy is made with wheat flour as a thickener. Make GF gravy using cornstarch, arrowroot, or GF flour instead.
The Bottom Line: Gravy contains gluten and is not safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Look for certified gluten-free alternatives instead. Source: Check Gluten, reviewed by Sarah Mitchell, B.S. Nutrition Science. Last updated June 2026.
π Regional Safety Checker
Most US gravy contains wheat flour. Make your own using cornstarch or buy certified GF brands.
In the US, gravy (especially turkey, beef, or country-style white gravy) is thickened with a wheat flour roux. Canned gravies and packet mixes from brands like McCormick contain wheat. Look for Pacific Foods or Pioneer GF mixes.
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The Full Answer
Traditional gravy is made with a roux β butter and wheat flour cooked together β then mixed with pan drippings or stock. This means virtually all restaurant gravy, canned gravy, and packet gravy mixes contain wheat and are NOT safe for celiacs.
Making gluten-free gravy at home is easy. Simply substitute cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or a GF flour blend for wheat flour. The technique is slightly different (mix cornstarch with cold water first to create a slurry), but the results are excellent.
Some brands make GF gravy mixes β Trader Joe's and Pacific Foods both offer options. But the vast majority of commercial and restaurant gravies are wheat-based. At Thanksgiving and holiday meals, gravy is the #1 hidden gluten trap.
Hidden Gluten Risks in Gravy
- β Nearly all traditional gravy uses wheat flour
- β Packet/canned gravy mixes contain wheat
- β Restaurant gravy is almost always wheat-based
- β Holiday gravy is the #1 hidden gluten trap
- β Gravy on other dishes (biscuits, mashed potatoes, turkey)
Safe Brands
- β Pacific Foods GF Gravy
- β Trader Joe's Savory GF Gravy
- β Road's End Organics GF Gravy Mix
Avoid These
- π« Most canned gravy
- π« All restaurant gravy
- π« McCormick gravy packets
- π« Heinz gravy
π Shop Safe Brands
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Pacific Foods Organic Butternut Squash Soup, 32 Oz
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Gluten-Free Alternatives
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Related: Is This Gluten-Free?
About the Author
Sarah Mitchell
Lead Content Writer & Nutritionist, B.S. Nutrition Science
Sarah was diagnosed with celiac disease in 2018 and writes evidence-based guides combining clinical nutrition knowledge with 6+ years of personal gluten-free living experience.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or a registered dietitian before making dietary changes related to celiac disease. Read full disclaimer.