23 Outstanding Beef Broth Substitutes And How To Use Them

If you are in need of a beef broth substitute, you can use chicken broth, mushroom broth, red wine, bullion and water, bullion and vegetable broth, or simply water and soy sauce!

So, even if you find out that you have no beef brother halfway through making your soup, there are alternatives.

As such, you will never have to go through the pain of not getting that heartwarming soup made. 

Beef broth, or any kind of broth really, is a stable in many houses. You need beef broth to make your favorite hearty soups, juicy roasts, and delicious gravy!

Whatever you want to make, you can almost always find a use for beef broth. Because of this, having some at hand is always a good thing. However, if you run out, it’s  not the end of the world. 

To find out more about beef broth substitutes, as well as how to use, freeze, and make some, just keep reading! We are going to be going through everything you need to know. 

Beef Stock VS Beef Broth – The Difference

There are often a lot of questions around beef stock and beef broth. To avoid any confusion, let’s take a quick look at the difference between beef broth and stock here. That way, moving forward, everyone should be on the same page. 

The big difference between beef broth and beef stock is that stock is typically less flavorful than broth. In a broth, the flavor will be super strong and pleasant.

Although stock is usually a thicker consistency, it is made using leftover bones. Broth, on the other hand, is usually made from meat and vegetables and is more watery than stock. 

It’s important to note that, while beef stock and broth and very different things, they can be substituted for one another in many recipes.

As such, if you don’t have any beef broth, you can use beef stock instead. However, since stock isn’t as flavorful as broth, additional seasonings might be needed.

On the off chance that you don’t have beef stock or broth, you’re in the right place. There are six great alternatives that you can use if you don’t have beef broth or stock in the house. Let’s start.

23 Beef Broth Substitutes To Try

The six options listed below are easy substitutes to use in the absence of beef broth.

These substitutes are pretty easy to make, while also being quick. As such, they are great options to keep in mind next time you run out of beef broth.

Nutritional Table

Substitutes	Calories (Per 100 Gm)
Chicken Broth	36
Mushroom Broth	53
Red Wine	85
Bullion And Water	16
Bullion And Vegetable Broth	5
Water And Soy Sauce	53
Beef Consume	17
Beef Stock	13
Vegetable Broth	7
Beer	43
Beef Base	167
Liquid Aminos	65
Beef Bouillon	125
Worcestershire Sauce	78
Water	0
Tomato Paste	82
Miso Paste	199
Soy Sauce	53
Bone Broth	27
Chicken Bullion Cubes	265
French Onion Soup	23
Fish Stock	17
Vegan Steak Sauce	88.2

1. Chicken Broth

Although chicken broth has a different flavor to beef broth, it can be used in most recipes. In truth, you won’t even be able to tell the difference between the use of beef and chicken broth in a lot of recipes.

This is especially the case if the recipes are full of flavor, which will mask the chicken flavor. When you use chicken broth, it can be at a 1:1 ratio, so it’s incredibly easy to use and understand.  

How To Substitute

Substitute chicken broth for beef broth at a 1:1 ratio. Just use the chicken broth in the exact same way you would the beef, and you will be on your way to a delicious meal.

2. Bullion And Water

You can use the simple combination of a bouillon cube and water to get over your beef broth shortage. Since bouillon cubes won’t have the exact flavor you are looking for, you will probably need to add some extra seasoning. 

How To Substitute

You can use this as a substitute, just as you would use your beef broth. Simply follow the instructions listed on your bullion, and add the correct amount of water. After that, add the mixture to your recipe and proceed as normal.

3. Red Wine

Using your red wine in cooking is super handy if you aren’t the biggest fan of drinking it. But wait – the alcohol! Don’t worry – as wine cooks, the alcohol evaporates, which makes it safe for everyone, inducing the kids!

Adding red wine to simmer in dishes adds some incredible flavor, and once you try it, you won’t want to go back.

How to substitute it: this is similar to the ones above – all you need to do is add about as much red wine as you would your beef broth.

However, to get even better results, you can use half wine and half broth or bullion. That will give you some extra flavor. 

How To Substitute

This is similar to the ones above – all you need to do is add about as much red wine as you would your beef broth. However, to get even better results, you can use half wine and half broth or bullion. That will give you some extra flavor.

4. Mushroom Broth

If you find that you have a load of mushrooms lying around that you probably won’t be able to get through, use them to make a broth.

To make a mushroom broth, just chop a big onion up, sauté it, add 11 cups of warm water, then add around one pound of mushrooms.

Add all your favorite seasonings to get it perfect for your preferences, and allow everything in the pot to simmer over a medium heat. After an hour, the broth should be ready to use in your next dish. 

How to substitute it: you can use this substitute mushroom broth exactly how you would a beef broth at a 1:1 ratio. The flavor will be incredible, and it is little to no extra work.

You might even prefer this flavor to beef, depending on what you are making!

How To Substitute

You can use this substitute mushroom broth exactly how you would a beef broth at a 1:1 ratio. The flavor will be incredible, and it is little to no extra work. You might even prefer this flavor to beef, depending on what you are making!

5. Water And Soy Sauce

Soy sauce (especially dark soy), has a very strong and salty flavor. This flavor can be confused with beef broth, so of course it would make the perfect substitute!

To do this, just get one cup of water and add one tablespoon of dark soy sauce. If you want something with a flavor that is a little more milk, use light soy sauce. 

This soy sauce and water combination can make a pretty convincing beef broth, but it will depend on what you’re making. You might find that some recipes don’t gel too well with the soy flavor.

As such, be careful when you use this. Generally, it should work well for whatever you would like to make.

How to substitute it: simply create the water and soy sauce blend and use it as you would beef broth. Add it to the dish you are creating and let it simmer away. 

How To Substitute

Simply create the water and soy sauce blend and use it as you would beef broth. Add it to the dish you are creating and let it simmer away.

RELATED: Our Favorite Chicken Broth Substitutes

6. Bullion And Vegetable Broth 

If you already have some vegetable broth myself around, why not use this? If you really want to get that beef broth flavor, you can add a beef bullion cube to get it tasting just right.

Depending on how much broth you need for the recipe, you might need to add more than one bullion cube.

Once you know how strong you want the beef flavor to be, you can use the vegetable broth and bullion mixture like you would any other broth. 

How to substitute it: you will use the vegetable broth and bullion cube mixture just like you would a regular beef broth.

Simply dissolve the number of bullion cubes you will need in the vegetable broth, then use it as you would. Depending on how strong you want the beef flavor to be, you might need to add more than one cube.

Just make sure that there’s enough liquid to dissolve each cube by reading the instructions on the back.  

How To Substitute

You may use the vegetable broth and bullion cube mixture just like you would a regular beef broth. Simply dissolve the number of bullion cubes you will need in the vegetable broth, then use it. Depending on how strong you want the beef flavor to be.

7. Beef Consume

Beef Consume is a tasty and hearty broth used as a base for various recipes. The product is made with vegetables, spices, herbs, and beef. It is a great option to replace beef consume.

The meaty flavor of the beef and vegetables creates a rich and savory broth that you can use for various dishes.

The beef consume is traditionally used in soup, sauces, stews, and sauces.

How To Substitute

Use 1 part of beef consume to swap out one portion of beef broth.

8. Beef Stock

While the beef broth and beef stock are both made from simmering beef bones, there are some key differences between the two.

Beef stock is made by simmering the bones for extended periods, resulting in a more intense flavor. Additionally, the beef stock typically contains more gelatin than beef broth, which gives it a thicker consistency.

Can you substitute beef broth for the beef stock? While the flavor will be slightly different, it is generally acceptable to substitute beef broth for beef stock in most recipes.

Remember that the final dish may not be as rich and flavorful as if you had used beef stock.

How To Substitute

You can substitute the beef broth with an equal amount of beef stock that your recipe calls for.

9. Vegetable Broth

If you want to make a healthier version of your favorite beef dish, you may wonder if you can substitute vegetable broth for beef broth. The answer is yes!

Vegetable broth is an excellent alternative to beef broth and can be used in any recipe that calls for beef broth.

Not only is vegetable broth healthier than beef broth, but it’s also more versatile. You can use it in any recipe for beef broth, whether it’s a soup, stew, or sauce.

And if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, vegetable broth is a great choice. So next time you’re in the kitchen, reach for the vegetable broth and try it!

How To Substitute

Swap out the beef broth for an equal amount of vegetable broth, and you’re good to go!

10. Beer

Some recipes call for beef broth, but beer is a perfect substitute for reducing your meat intake. Just heat the beer, add it to the recipe, and you are good to go.

The secret to perfect beef stroganoff is cooking the meat in beer. It will add a depth of flavor you won’t find with a traditional beef broth.

You may use beer in place of beef broth in a recipe, and in turn, you will be able to create a more complex, flavorful dish.

How To Substitute

Use 1 cup of beer to replace 1 cup of beef broth.

11. Beef Base

Beef Base is an excellent alternative to the beef broth in any recipe. Beef Base is a product that you can be found in the soup aisle of your local grocery store, made with natural ingredients and no preservatives.

The base is made with natural ingredients like sea salt, ground black pepper, onion powder, celery seed, and garlic powder.

You can use Beef Base to create your own healthy and flavorful recipes.

How To Substitute

For substituting beef broth with beef base, use it in a ratio of 1:1.

12. Liquid Aminos

Yes, you can substitute beef broth with Liquid Aminos. The two have very similar flavors.

However, keep in mind that Liquid Aminos is a concentrated seasoning, so you may need to adjust the amount you use depending on the recipe.

Liquid Aminos will add a slightly saltier flavor to your dish than beef broth, so keep that in mind when you use it.

Also, add a little extra water to your recipe to thin out the Liquid Aminos and prevent your dish from being too salty.

How To Substitute

Liquid Aminos can be used as a 1:1 replacement for beef broth in most recipes.

13. Beef Bouillon

If you are preparing your favorite beef recipe and run short of beef broth, then here is your perfect substitute. First, you will need to find a beef bouillon to use in place of beef broth in your recipes.

Beef bouillon is a concentrated stock made from roasted beef bones, and you may find it easily in grocery stores.

You can use it in soups, stews, sauces, gravies, and many other recipes.

How To Substitute

If you want to substitute 1 cup of beef broth, add one beef bouillon in 1 cup of water and replace the final product in a 1:1 ratio.

14. Worcestershire Sauce

You’re in luck if you’re out of the beef broth and need a Worcestershire sauce substitute in a pinch.

You can use a few options to get that same savory, umami flavor in your dish.

Worcestershire sauce is a sauce made from vinegar, water, and spices. It can be used as a condiment or a flavoring in various dishes.

The main ingredient in Worcestershire sauce is anchovies, a type of fish used to make the sauce. 

How To Substitute

One easy way to substitute beef broth for Worcestershire sauce is to mix two tablespoons of beef broth with two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.

15. Water

Water can be used as a beef broth substitute in many recipes. However, when substituting water for beef broth, it is essential to remember that water does not have the same flavor profile as beef broth.

It means that you will need to add additional seasonings to your recipe to make up for the lack of flavor in the water. Additionally, water will not provide the same level of richness and body as beef broth.

To compensate for this, consider using a bouillon cube or beef base to add flavor and body to your recipe.

How To Substitute

Substitute beef broth with water in a 1:1 ratio.

16. Tomato Paste

If you want a tangy addition to your recipe instead of beef broth, here is your choice.

Tomato Paste is a vegetable-based condiment made by cooking tomatoes and can be used as a beef broth substitute in various recipes.

Tomato paste contains an intense and tangy flavor with an umami flavor, bringing out the excellent taste in your recipe.

How To Substitute

Add one teaspoon of tomato paste in a cup of hot water and then substitute the final product with beef broth in a 1:1 ratio in your recipe.

17. Miso Paste

Many people enjoy the flavor of beef broth in their soup, but some individuals may not like it or may be allergic to beef. If you are looking for a substitute, try adding miso paste to your broth.

Miso paste is a traditional Japanese condiment made from fermented soybeans and rice. The fermentation process creates a salty, sweet, and savory flavor that pairs well with beef.

How To Substitute

Add one teaspoon of miso paste in 1 cup of hot water and substitute it with beef broth in equal amounts.

18. Soy Sauce

There are many beef broth substitutes, and Soy sauce is one of the great substitutes to fulfill the shortage of beef broth in your recipe.

It can be challenging to cook a meatless dish, but Soy Sauce is an ingredient that can take the place of beef broth in many dishes.

Soy sauce is prepared by fermenting soybeans with salt, water, and enzymes.

Soy sauce is typically used in Asian cooking and is an essential part of many dishes, including soups, stir-fries, sauces, and braises.

How To Substitute

For substituting soy sauce with beef broth, combine ½ cup of soy sauce with ½ cup of hot water and replace it with 1 cup of beef broth.

19. Bone Broth

Many people are familiar with the term “bone broth,” but they may not be aware of all the benefits and the fact that they can substitute it for beef broth.

Bone broth is water that has been simmered with bones and other ingredients for an extended period. This process extracts minerals and other nutrients from the bones, which are then transferred into the broth.

If you’re looking for beef broth substitutes to improve your health and deliciously, bone broth is a great place to start.

How To Substitute

Swap beef broth with bone broth in a 1:1 ratio.

20. Chicken Bullion Cubes

Chicken bullion cubes are a great option out of many beef broth substitutes with something else. They provide the same savory flavor and umami taste without beefiness.

You can use them in any recipe for beef broth, adding a delicious depth of flavor.

To use chicken bullion cubes, dissolve them in water according to the package directions.

Then, use the broth in your recipe as you would typically use beef broth. The cubes are a great way to add flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes without using beef broth.

How To Substitute

1 cup of hot water with one bouillon cube will replace 1 cup of beef broth.

21. French Onion Soup

French onion soup is an easy and one of the best beef broth substitutes, and it will bring out a delicious and great outcome.

However, there are a few things to remember when substituting beef broth with a french onion soup.

First, make sure that the onion soup is completely cooled before using it as a replacement. You don’t want to end up with a beefy-tasting soup!

Second, french onion soup is usually saltier than beef broth, so you’ll want to adjust the seasoning of your soup accordingly.

Finally, the onion soup will add a bit of sweetness to the overall flavor of the soup, so you may want to add a touch of acidity (such as lemon juice or vinegar) to balance it out.

How To Substitute

Use 1 cup of beef broth to substitute 1 cup of french onion soup to get the desired results in your recipe.

22. Fish Stock

Out of many beef broth substitutes, fish stock is a mixture of fish bones, water, and aromatics used to make fish soup. It is also known as the fish stock cube.

Fish stock is a delicious and nutritious alternative to beef broth and is also a great way to give your recipes a unique twist. You can use this recipe to make Beef Stock.

If you are comfortable with the change of taste, then the fish stock is your perfect choice to replace the beef broth with fish stock.

How To Substitute

Use 1 cup of fish stock to replace 1 cup of beef broth.

23. Vegan Steak Sauce

If you don’t have beef broth in hand, then you must try vegan steak sauce in your recipe from the popular beef broth substitutes.

You may use Vegan steak sauce to substitute beef broth in recipes for soups, sauces, and gravies.

It makes it easy to make recipes that use beef broth, like beef stew or beef and bean soup, vegan and still keep their original taste.

How To Substitute

If you want to substitute 1 cup of beef broth, then take one teaspoon of soy sauce and 1 cup of vegan steak sauce and combine it with one cup of hot water, and your substitute is ready.

Five Ways To Use Beef Broth

If you have made a lot of beef broth, and you aren’t sure how to use it all, check out our suggestions below

• Create A Marinade: add a couple of ingredients like onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and brown sugar to your broth, and use it to marinate all your favorite meats for 24 hours. 
• Use It For Gravy: make a roux with butter and flour, then add beef broth to make a 15-minute gravy you won’t forget.
• Make Ramen: use your beef broth as your ramen broth! Get some cheap ramen noodles, and add all your favorite ingredients.
• Flavorsome Rice: cook your next rice meal in the beef broth instead of water to make it super delicious.
• Make A Spaghetti Sauce: create a delicious spaghetti sauce by combining your beef broth with a little tomato paste and your other favorite seasonings. 

RELATED: 12 Tasty Vegetable Broth Substitutes You Can Use For Any Dish

What You Need To Know About Freezing Beef Broth?

Now, you might be wondering – is it possible to freeze beef broth if you have made too much? Thankfully, the answer is a resounding yes!

In fact, it’s probably a good idea to have some beef broth in the freezer for a rainy day when you need it. It makes cooking a little easier, and you don’t have to stress about remaking that perfect flavor. 

There are a couple of super handy ways you can freeze beef broth that makes it easy to use at a later date.

We are going to take a look at some of these options so that you can pick your favorite. Let’s take a look at some ways to freeze beef broth so that you can use it again. 

Use An Ice Cube Tray

Yes, you read that right! You can easily freeze your leftover beef broth in an ice cube tray to make it super easy to use the next time you need it.

All you need to do is wait until your beef broth has cooled down before adding it to each ice cube section in the tray. Once they are full, stick them in the freezer until they are frozen solid. 

As soon as the beef broth cubes are solid, pack them into an airtight plastic bag to store in the freezer for when you need them.

Then, when a meal requires some beef broth, you can just head over to the freezer and take out a cube or two. 

Of course, it would be handy to know how big the ice cubes are. By knowing the size of each cube, you can more easily figure out how many cubes you should add to the recipe you’re making.

It’s a very convenient way of using leftover beef broth, and it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Freeze It In Mason Jars

Using mason jars to freeze your beef broth is another smart idea. Simply allow the beef broth to reach room temperature, then add it to your glass mason jars.

Leave about an inch at the top, because the liquid will expand as it freezes. If you fill the jar to the top, it might crack or even explode. 

Once the glass mason jar has been filled, add a label with the name and date, and leave it in the freezer to become solid.

Storing your beef broth like this should allow it to freeze for around a year. That means you have plenty of time to use it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Beef Broth?

The beef broth is a liquid mixture made from meat and vegetables. It is very flavorful and is often used in things like soups.

Are Beef Broth And Beef Stock Different?

Been stock is made from bones, whereas broth is made from meat and vegetables. Stock is typically less flavorful than broth.

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make Beef Broth?

The basic ingredients for a beef broth are meat, vegetables, water, and your preferred seasoning. Recipes can vary greatly depending on preferences or where you are in the world. 

How Long Can You Freeze Beef Broth For?

Beef broth can usually be kept frozen for around one year. It isn’t recommended to use it after that as the mixture will have degraded, though still technically safe to consume. 

Can Beef Broth Go Bad?

Yes, beef broth can go bad. This can happen relatively quickly if it is stored incorrectly.

How To Tell When Beef Broth Has Gone Bad?

You will know that beef broth has gone bad when it smells off, has mold, or is discolored. If you notice any of these things, the broth should not be used and be discarded instead.