30+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Beef Stew Recipes for a Healthier Season

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, indulgent meals.

However, for those managing diabetes, enjoying the festive food spread can present a challenge.

Finding recipes that are both delicious and diabetic-friendly can be tough, especially when it comes to comforting dishes like beef stew.

But fear not—this collection of 30+ holiday diabetic beef stew recipes is here to provide you with a wide range of hearty, flavorful, and nutritious options.

These recipes are designed to keep your blood sugar in check without sacrificing taste, making them perfect for your holiday menu.

Whether you’re looking for something spicy, savory, or sweet, there’s a diabetic-friendly beef stew recipe to suit every palate this season.

In this blog, you’ll discover a variety of beef stew recipes that incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients, lean cuts of beef, and clever substitutions to keep the carbs low while maintaining rich, satisfying flavors.

So, if you’re ready to make this holiday season flavorful and health-conscious, dive into these recipes that bring comfort and joy without compromising on taste.

30+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Beef Stew Recipes for a Healthier Season

This holiday season, don’t let diabetes stop you from enjoying delicious, warming meals.

With these 30+ diabetic-friendly beef stew recipes, you can indulge in comforting flavors while keeping your blood sugar levels in check.

From classic beef stews with seasonal vegetables to more unique combinations, these recipes offer something for every taste and dietary preference.

They not only allow you to enjoy traditional holiday meals but also introduce exciting new twists to classic dishes, making them healthier and more festive than ever before.

So, grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and start cooking—these beef stew recipes are sure to become your new holiday favorites!

Hearty Holiday Beef Stew with Root Vegetables

A warm and comforting stew perfect for chilly holiday evenings, this recipe combines lean beef, low-carb root vegetables, and a medley of herbs. It’s designed to be both delicious and diabetic-friendly, with no added sugar and a focus on balanced nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 medium turnip, cubed
• 1 cup diced rutabaga
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, sliced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add beef and brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Return beef to the pot and add beef broth, water, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add turnips, rutabaga, carrots, and celery. Cover and cook on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, or until beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

This stew offers the perfect balance of flavors while keeping carbohydrates in check. The root vegetables add natural sweetness, and the herbs provide depth, making it an ideal choice for a festive, health-conscious meal.

Savory Beef and Mushroom Stew

This earthy, savory beef and mushroom stew is a holiday favorite, combining the richness of tender beef with the umami flavors of mushrooms. This low-carb dish is perfect for anyone managing blood sugar levels while still wanting a hearty holiday meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional) or additional beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (no sugar added)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Brown the beef, then set aside.
2. Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook until softened.
3. Return beef to the pot and stir in tomato paste. Add broth, wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, and pepper.
4. Simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
5. Garnish with parsley before serving.

This savory stew brings out the deep, rich flavors of mushrooms and beef, making it an irresistible choice for any holiday table. Its simple preparation belies its gourmet taste, ensuring it will become a family favorite.

Festive Low-Carb Beef Stew with Spaghetti Squash

For a lighter take on traditional beef stew, this recipe pairs tender beef with spaghetti squash for a satisfying yet diabetic-friendly holiday dish. Packed with flavor, it’s a fresh and festive way to celebrate the season.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
• 1 medium spaghetti squash, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat coconut oil in a pot over medium heat. Brown the beef, then set aside.
2. Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until translucent.
3. Add broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Bring to a simmer, then return beef to the pot.
4. Add zucchini and bell peppers. Cook on low heat for 1–2 hours, until beef is tender.
5. Serve stew over a bed of cooked spaghetti squash and garnish with fresh basil.

This dish is a unique twist on the classic beef stew, with the spaghetti squash adding texture and reducing the overall carb content. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a standout on any holiday menu.

Winter Beef Stew with Brussels Sprouts and Bacon

A rich, hearty stew featuring tender beef, crispy bacon, and roasted Brussels sprouts, this dish is packed with flavor and offers a festive twist on the classic. The addition of Brussels sprouts adds a touch of seasonal greenery, while the bacon enhances the stew with a smoky depth, perfect for those watching their blood sugar during the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some rendered fat in the pot.
2. Add olive oil to the pot, then brown the beef stew meat on all sides.
3. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in the Brussels sprouts, beef broth, water, dried thyme, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then top with fresh thyme and the reserved crispy bacon before serving.

This stew offers a delicious balance of savory beef, smoky bacon, and slightly bitter Brussels sprouts, creating a comforting meal perfect for a holiday dinner. It’s full of rich, layered flavors that will delight any guest while keeping the carbs low.

Holiday Beef and Butternut Squash Stew

This festive stew combines lean beef with the natural sweetness of butternut squash. It’s an ideal holiday meal for those managing diabetes, offering a balance of proteins, fiber, and vitamins while still delivering a rich, comforting taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the butternut squash, celery, beef broth, water, and spices. Bring to a boil.
4. Return beef to the pot, reduce the heat, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender and the squash is soft.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh sage before serving.

This stew brings together the warmth of winter spices with the natural sweetness of squash, offering a light yet hearty dish that’s perfect for any holiday table. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season without the guilt.

Garlic and Herb Beef Stew with Kale

Packed with protein and fiber, this hearty and flavorful beef stew features tender beef, a medley of herbs, and nutrient-rich kale. It’s perfect for those looking for a low-carb, high-protein meal to enjoy during the holiday season without worrying about blood sugar spikes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 3 cups kale, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat and remove.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until fragrant.
3. Return beef to the pot, then add beef broth, water, oregano, basil, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the kale and cook on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This stew is full of rich, hearty flavors and nutrient-dense kale, making it a perfect choice for those who want a comforting holiday meal that’s also healthy. The garlic and herb combination adds an extra layer of richness that is both satisfying and festive.

Beef Stew with Roasted Red Peppers and Olives

This Mediterranean-inspired beef stew brings bold flavors to your holiday table. The combination of roasted red peppers and briny olives enhances the richness of the beef, while providing a low-carb, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and diabetic-friendly.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat, then remove and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in roasted red peppers, olives, beef broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return beef to the pot and add oregano and paprika. Simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This stew brings a fresh, vibrant twist to the traditional holiday beef stew, with the roasted red peppers and olives providing a Mediterranean flair. It’s a perfect dish for those who love bold, complex flavors while keeping their meals diabetic-friendly and festive.

Spicy Holiday Beef Stew with Jalapeños and Cilantro

This bold and flavorful beef stew offers a spicy kick from fresh jalapeños, balanced by the freshness of cilantro. It’s the perfect dish for those who enjoy a little heat in their holiday meals while still keeping things diabetic-friendly and full of wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the sliced jalapeños, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Return beef to the pot, then add beef broth, water, and bring to a simmer.
5. Cook on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well blended.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and top with fresh cilantro just before serving.

This spicy beef stew offers a bold and exciting twist on traditional holiday stews. The heat from the jalapeños adds an unexpected kick, while the cilantro brings a refreshing contrast, making it a great choice for those who enjoy lively flavors during the holidays.

Beef Stew with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Cranberries

This hearty stew combines the richness of beef with the sweet and tart flavors of roasted sweet potatoes and cranberries. It’s a perfect choice for a festive, diabetic-friendly holiday meal that celebrates the season’s flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat, then remove and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened.
4. Add the beef broth, water, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pot and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the roasted sweet potatoes and fresh cranberries. Continue to simmer for 1–1.5 hours, until beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.

The combination of sweet potatoes and cranberries brings a seasonal, festive touch to this beef stew. The natural sweetness of the potatoes and the tart cranberries balance perfectly with the richness of the beef, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that is ideal for holiday gatherings.

Mushroom and Red Wine Beef Stew

This luxurious beef stew is enhanced with the depth of flavor from mushrooms and a splash of red wine. It’s a perfect option for a cozy holiday dinner that’s diabetic-friendly while offering rich, savory flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (or extra beef broth)
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, until they release their moisture and soften.
4. Add red wine to the pot, stirring to deglaze the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce for 2–3 minutes.
5. Add beef broth, thyme, and rosemary, then return the beef to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cook on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well developed.
7. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This rich, savory stew offers the depth and warmth perfect for a holiday meal. The addition of red wine and mushrooms elevates the dish, making it a luxurious yet diabetic-friendly option that feels indulgent without the added sugar or carbs.

Beef and Spinach Stew with Parmesan

A fresh and healthy holiday stew, this recipe combines lean beef with nutrient-packed spinach and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness. It’s a light yet satisfying option that is ideal for those looking for a lower-carb meal during the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
3. Pour in beef broth and water, then bring to a simmer.
4. Return beef to the pot, then stir in dried oregano and basil. Simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until beef is tender.
5. Add chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

This beef and spinach stew is a delightful holiday meal that’s light on carbs but big on flavor. The Parmesan adds a savory richness, making it feel like a luxurious dish while keeping things health-conscious and festive.

Beef Stew with Parsnips and Leeks

This elegant and flavorful beef stew features the sweetness of parsnips and the delicate, savory taste of leeks. Perfect for a holiday gathering, it offers a comforting yet low-carb option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
• 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the parsnips and leeks, cooking for about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the beef broth and water, then add thyme and white pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the beef to the pot and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
6. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This beef stew with parsnips and leeks is a perfect holiday dish for those seeking something unique and flavorful. The natural sweetness of the parsnips and the mild, onion-like flavor of the leeks make for a lovely pairing with the beef, creating a satisfying and health-conscious meal.

Beef Stew with Cauliflower and Green Beans

This low-carb beef stew is a perfect option for holiday meals. The cauliflower and green beans provide a colorful, nutrient-dense contrast to the rich beef, making it a filling yet healthy dish for those managing blood sugar.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat avocado oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in cauliflower florets and green beans, cooking for about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth, water, oregano, and turmeric, then return the beef to the pot.
5. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

This beef stew offers a hearty yet health-conscious meal with a great balance of fiber, protein, and nutrients. The cauliflower acts as a great low-carb substitute for potatoes, while the green beans add a crisp, fresh element to the dish. It’s a perfect choice for a diabetes-friendly holiday meal.

Cabbage and Beef Stew with Mustard Seeds

This unique beef stew brings a touch of tangy and aromatic flavor with the addition of mustard seeds and cabbage. It’s a perfect meal to serve at holiday dinners, offering a savory, satisfying option that’s low in carbohydrates and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
• 4 cups cabbage, shredded
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened.
3. Add mustard seeds, cooking for 1–2 minutes until they begin to pop.
4. Stir in shredded cabbage, turmeric, and coriander, cooking for another 5 minutes.
5. Pour in beef broth and water, then return the beef to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender and the cabbage is soft.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This stew features the unique combination of cabbage and mustard seeds, bringing a mild tanginess to balance the richness of the beef. The turmeric and coriander add warmth and depth, making this a flavorful and low-carb holiday dish.

Beef Stew with Pomegranate and Mint

This festive and vibrant beef stew combines the sweetness of pomegranate and the freshness of mint, creating a unique and flavorful dish. It’s an ideal holiday meal for those who want to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent dish during the season.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat, then remove and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Pour in the beef broth, water, cinnamon, and cumin, then return the beef to the pot.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until the beef is tender.
5. Stir in pomegranate seeds and fresh mint during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

This beef stew is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with the pomegranate adding a burst of flavor and the mint providing a refreshing contrast. It’s a festive and healthy choice for holiday dinners, offering a creative twist on the traditional beef stew.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!