50+ Nutritious Holiday Low Sodium Slow Cooker Recipes for Every Occasion

The holiday season is a time for indulgence, but for those who are watching their sodium intake, traditional holiday meals can be a challenge.

Fortunately, with the help of a slow cooker, you can create flavorful, low-sodium dishes that still feel festive and indulgent.

From savory sides to sweet desserts, the slow cooker makes it easy to prepare healthy holiday meals without sacrificing taste.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing meals in advance, these 50+ holiday low-sodium slow cooker recipes will help you keep your celebrations both delicious and heart-healthy.

This article will offer you a variety of recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary needs.

Each recipe is designed to minimize sodium while maximizing flavor, using fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices to create vibrant dishes.

So, gather your ingredients, dust off your slow cooker, and get ready to explore a new way of preparing your holiday favorites!

50+ Nutritious Holiday Low Sodium Slow Cooker Recipes for Every Occasion

Enjoying the holiday season doesn’t have to mean overloading on sodium-rich dishes.

With these 50+ holiday low-sodium slow cooker recipes, you can create healthier versions of your favorite meals without compromising on flavor.

The slow cooker makes it easier than ever to prepare heart-healthy dishes that everyone can enjoy.

So, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for simple weeknight meals, these recipes provide the perfect balance of nutrition and taste.

Let this holiday season be filled with delicious, low-sodium meals that contribute to your overall well-being while still keeping the festive spirit alive!

Holiday Low Sodium Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a must-have on any holiday table, but they often come loaded with sodium. This low-sodium slow cooker version is creamy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. By using fresh herbs, garlic, and unsalted butter, you’ll create a dish that satisfies your guests without compromising their health. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthier twist.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 ½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth or unsalted vegetable broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Add diced potatoes, minced garlic, and broth to your slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and mash the potatoes directly in the slow cooker using a potato masher or handheld mixer.
3. Add butter, cream, black pepper, and parsley. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the texture by adding more cream if necessary.
4. Keep warm in the slow cooker until ready to serve.

These low-sodium mashed potatoes are creamy and delicious, proving you don’t need excessive salt to make a memorable dish. The slow cooker method ensures minimal effort, freeing you up for other holiday preparations. Serve these mashed potatoes alongside your holiday favorites for a satisfying, heart-healthy meal.

Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat, perfect for holiday gatherings. This slow cooker recipe uses a blend of aromatic herbs and a touch of natural sweetness to enhance the flavor without relying on sodium. The result is a succulent, juicy centerpiece that pairs wonderfully with seasonal sides like roasted vegetables or cranberry sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork tenderloin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (low sodium)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until lightly browned (about 2 minutes per side).
3. Transfer the seared pork to the slow cooker and pour chicken broth around it.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove the pork from the slow cooker, let it rest for 5 minutes, and slice before serving.

This herb-crusted pork tenderloin is a flavorful and festive option for your holiday table. The low-sodium preparation keeps it healthy without sacrificing taste, while the slow cooker ensures the meat stays moist and tender. Pair it with your favorite low-sodium sides for a meal everyone will love.

Slow Cooker Holiday Apple-Cranberry Crisp

No holiday meal is complete without dessert, and this apple-cranberry crisp is the perfect healthier alternative to traditional pies. Made with naturally sweet fruit, warm spices, and a crunchy oat topping, this dessert is low in sodium and big on holiday flavor. Plus, it’s made in the slow cooker, so it saves oven space during busy holiday cooking.

Ingredients:
For the Filling:

• 5 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ¼ cup honey or pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup almond flour or whole wheat flour
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine apples, cranberries, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix oats, almond flour, melted butter, honey, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the fruit.
3. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours, until the fruit is tender and the topping is golden and crisp.
4. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream (optional).

This slow cooker apple-cranberry crisp is the ultimate holiday dessert, combining the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples and a comforting oat topping. Its low-sodium content ensures you can enjoy a guilt-free treat while indulging in holiday festivities. Serve it as the grand finale to a festive meal!

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a holiday staple, but the traditional version can be high in sodium due to marshmallows, canned ingredients, and added salts. This low-sodium version swaps in natural sweeteners and spices for a wholesome and delicious side dish. The slow cooker method ensures the sweet potatoes are perfectly tender while freeing up oven space for other holiday favorites.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed unsalted pecans or walnuts (optional for topping)

Instructions:

1. Place cubed sweet potatoes into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours, until fork-tender.
2. Mash the sweet potatoes directly in the slow cooker using a potato masher. Stir in almond milk, butter, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Sprinkle the top with crushed nuts if desired.
4. Switch the slow cooker to “warm” until ready to serve.

This low-sodium sweet potato casserole is a healthier alternative to a holiday classic, delivering a comforting blend of natural sweetness and spices. The ease of preparation and rich flavors make it an excellent addition to any festive meal.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

Perfect for holiday gatherings or post-holiday meals, this turkey and wild rice soup is a comforting dish that’s light yet satisfying. Packed with tender turkey, nutrient-rich vegetables, and hearty wild rice, it’s low in sodium but full of flavor. This soup is an excellent way to use up leftover turkey, ensuring nothing goes to waste during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded (unsalted or low-sodium seasoning used)
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice, rinsed
• 4 cups unsalted chicken or turkey broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Add wild rice, broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the rice is tender.
3. In the last hour of cooking, stir in shredded turkey. Adjust seasoning to taste, keeping it low-sodium-friendly.
4. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

This turkey and wild rice soup is a cozy, low-sodium dish that’s perfect for cooler months and holiday celebrations. Its nutritious ingredients and hearty texture make it an instant crowd-pleaser, whether served as an appetizer or a light main course.

Slow Cooker Holiday Pear and Ginger Compote

This pear and ginger compote is a versatile holiday dish that can be served as a dessert, a topping for yogurt or pancakes, or even as a side for roasted meats. The natural sweetness of ripe pears combined with warm ginger and a hint of cinnamon makes this dish a festive delight. The slow cooker ensures a hands-free preparation, perfect for busy holiday cooking.

Ingredients:

• 6 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsweetened apple cider or water

Instructions:

1. Add the sliced pears, honey, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pears are soft and the mixture is syrupy.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature as a dessert, side, or topping.

This slow cooker pear and ginger compote is a flavorful, low-sodium dish that adds a touch of elegance to your holiday table. Its rich, spiced aroma will fill your home, creating a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere. Enjoy it as a healthy, versatile addition to your festive celebrations!

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a holiday classic, but it often contains sodium-packed canned soup and fried onions. This low-sodium version substitutes homemade mushroom sauce and crunchy toasted breadcrumbs for a fresher, healthier take. Cooked in the slow cooker, it’s a stress-free addition to your holiday meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup unsalted chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsalted almond milk or low-fat milk
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup whole-grain breadcrumbs, toasted

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and mushrooms, cooking until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
2. Gradually add broth and milk, whisking continuously until thickened. Stir in garlic powder and black pepper.
3. Place green beans in the slow cooker and pour the mushroom sauce over them. Stir to coat.
4. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 5 hours, until green beans are tender.
5. Before serving, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for crunch.

This low-sodium green bean casserole combines creamy mushroom sauce and fresh green beans for a healthier take on the traditional dish. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it delivers the nostalgic taste of the classic recipe without the excessive sodium.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest

Cranberry sauce is a holiday must-have, but store-bought versions can be loaded with sodium and sugar. This homemade slow cooker version features the natural tartness of cranberries balanced with honey and a hint of orange zest. It’s a vibrant and healthy condiment that will elevate your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup honey or maple syrup
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Add cranberries, honey, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, mash slightly with a fork for a chunkier texture or blend for a smoother consistency.
4. Allow to cool before serving.

This low-sodium cranberry sauce is a festive, tangy-sweet addition to any holiday meal. The fresh ingredients and citrusy twist make it a healthier alternative to traditional options, while the slow cooker ensures an effortless preparation.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Maple Glazed Carrots

These slow cooker maple glazed carrots are a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them an ideal holiday side dish. Using fresh carrots, natural sweeteners, and herbs, this recipe delivers rich flavor without the need for added salt. It’s an easy, hands-off dish that will complement any festive menu.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs baby carrots or sliced whole carrots
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Add carrots to the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the carrots and stir to coat.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until carrots are tender.
4. Stir before serving and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

These low sodium maple glazed carrots are a crowd-pleaser that combines holiday-worthy flavors with a healthier profile. The warm spices and natural sweetness make this dish irresistible, while the slow cooker saves you time and effort in the kitchen. Enjoy this vibrant side as part of your holiday feast!

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Butternut Squash Soup

This velvety, comforting butternut squash soup is the perfect addition to a holiday meal. With its natural sweetness and rich texture, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional cream-based soups. The slow cooker makes this dish effortless, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly, while keeping the sodium content in check.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups unsalted vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker along with the cubed butternut squash, broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the squash is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add additional broth until the desired texture is achieved.
5. Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

This low-sodium butternut squash soup is a soothing, creamy option for holiday meals, offering a healthy dose of vegetables and warm spices. It’s easy to prepare in the slow cooker, leaving you with more time to focus on other holiday dishes. This soup will surely become a favorite at your holiday table.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Baked Apples with Cinnamon

Baked apples are a cozy, naturally sweet dessert that’s perfect for the holidays. This low-sodium recipe keeps things simple by using whole ingredients like fresh apples, cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey, while the slow cooker ensures a perfect texture every time. These baked apples can be served as a dessert or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 6 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup unsweetened apple cider or water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Core and slice the apples, placing them in the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, apple cider, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the apples, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the apples are tender.
4. Stir gently before serving, and top with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of crushed nuts if desired.

These slow-cooked baked apples are a naturally sweet treat that fits into a low-sodium diet. Their rich flavor and tender texture make them a perfect end to any holiday meal. Easy to prepare, they offer a simple, healthy alternative to more indulgent holiday desserts.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuffed acorn squash is a beautiful, hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor to your holiday table. This version is made with a low-sodium filling of quinoa, cranberries, and nuts, offering a satisfying and colorful side or main dish. The slow cooker makes the squash perfectly tender, allowing the flavors to develop without the need for excess salt.

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• ½ cup unsweetened dried cranberries
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ cups unsalted vegetable broth
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, sautéed onion and garlic, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Stuff the acorn squash halves with the quinoa mixture, packing it tightly.
4. Place the stuffed squash in the slow cooker and pour vegetable broth around the squash halves.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with extra nuts or fresh herbs if desired.

This slow-cooked stuffed acorn squash is a nourishing, low-sodium holiday dish that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing. The quinoa and cranberry filling adds a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an excellent side dish or a hearty vegetarian main course for your holiday spread.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a staple side dish during holiday meals, but they can often be loaded with salt and butter. This low-sodium version incorporates roasted garlic, unsalted chicken broth, and a touch of olive oil for a creamy and flavorful alternative. Using the slow cooker makes the process easy, and the result is a silky-smooth mashed potato dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 bulb garlic, roasted (see instructions below)
• 1 cup unsalted chicken or vegetable broth
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. To roast the garlic, preheat the oven to 400°F. Slice the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with a little olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, until soft and fragrant. Let cool slightly, then squeeze out the cloves.
2. Add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the slow cooker. Pour the unsalted broth over the potatoes.
3. Squeeze the roasted garlic into the slow cooker and add black pepper and thyme (if using).
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
5. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for a smoother texture. Stir in olive oil to achieve your desired creaminess.
6. Taste and adjust with more black pepper if needed.

These roasted garlic mashed potatoes offer a creamy, rich flavor without the added sodium. Roasting the garlic brings out its natural sweetness, making this dish a delightful, healthy option for your holiday spread. The slow cooker ensures your potatoes cook perfectly while allowing you to focus on other dishes.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile and colorful holiday dish, and this low-sodium version uses quinoa, fresh vegetables, and lean ground turkey for a nutritious, hearty meal. The slow cooker infuses the peppers with flavors while keeping the sodium content minimal. They’re a perfect make-ahead option for a holiday feast.

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground turkey (or lean ground chicken)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (no added salt)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup unsalted vegetable broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, cumin, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture, pressing down to fill them completely.
4. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the slow cooker. Pour the vegetable broth around the peppers.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the peppers are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

These low-sodium stuffed bell peppers are a healthy and satisfying holiday dish, packed with lean protein and wholesome ingredients. The slow cooker ensures that the peppers are tender and full of flavor, making them an excellent addition to your holiday menu without the excess salt.

Slow Cooker Low Sodium Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a favorite holiday side, but it often comes loaded with sugar and salt. This low-sodium version uses natural sweetness from the sweet potatoes and a small amount of maple syrup for a healthier alternative. Topped with crunchy nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s a festive dish that everyone can enjoy guilt-free.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes to the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the sweet potatoes and stir to coat.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for a smoother texture.
5. Stir in the chopped nuts (if using) and serve warm.

This low-sodium sweet potato casserole brings a healthy twist to the classic holiday dish. With natural sweetness from the potatoes and a hint of maple syrup, it’s both comforting and nutritious. The addition of cinnamon and nuts makes it festive and flavorful, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!