35+ Hearty Saturday Low-Sodium Beef Stew Recipes for Busy Weekend

Beef stew is one of the most comforting dishes you can make, perfect for cozy weekends and family dinners.

However, when you’re watching your sodium intake, traditional beef stews can sometimes be too salty, especially with store-bought broth or seasoning mixes.

Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or heartiness when cooking a low-sodium version of this classic dish.

Whether you want a savory, spicy, or even slightly sweet take on beef stew, there are endless ways to make a delicious, healthy meal while keeping your sodium levels in check.

In this blog, we’ve compiled 35+ Saturday low-sodium beef stew recipes that are packed with fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and tender beef.

These recipes range from traditional to creative twists, offering something for every taste preference.

So, the next time you’re planning a weekend meal, skip the heavy sodium-laden options and try one of these flavorful and heart-healthy stews.

Your taste buds will thank you, and so will your health!

35+ Hearty Saturday Low-Sodium Beef Stew Recipes for Busy Weekend

Cooking a low-sodium beef stew doesn’t mean compromising on taste or texture.

With these 35+ recipes, you can explore a variety of flavor profiles and cooking methods, all while keeping your sodium intake under control.

Whether you’re craving the traditional hearty beef stew, a spicy version with bold flavors, or something more innovative, there’s a recipe here to suit your preferences.

Incorporating these stews into your weekend meal rotation can help you make healthier choices without sacrificing the delicious, comforting feel of a classic beef stew.

So, gather your ingredients, grab your slow cooker or pot, and enjoy a healthy, flavorful, low-sodium beef stew this Saturday.

Your family, friends, and taste buds will love every bite!

Rustic Garden Beef Stew

This wholesome stew brings together tender beef chunks, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a hearty meal that’s flavorful yet low in sodium. Perfect for cozy weekends, this recipe emphasizes natural flavors without compromising on taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, celery, and carrots for 5 minutes.
3. Return the beef to the pot. Add the low-sodium beef broth, water, potatoes, green beans, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove the bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

The Rustic Garden Beef Stew highlights the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. By relying on fresh vegetables and herbs, this dish is a delightful, guilt-free comfort food. Pair it with whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal.

Herb-Infused Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This slow cooker recipe offers a stress-free way to create a robust, low-sodium beef stew infused with herbs. With minimal prep time, it’s an ideal choice for busy Saturdays when you want to enjoy a flavorful dish without effort.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed
• 3 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
• 1 cup unsalted tomato sauce
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 parsnips, chopped
• 1 small turnip, diced
• 1 medium leek, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides.
2. Transfer beef to a slow cooker. Add carrots, parsnips, turnip, leek, and garlic.
3. In a bowl, combine vegetable stock, tomato sauce, rosemary, thyme, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar. Pour over the beef and vegetables.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Stir before serving, adjusting seasoning if necessary.

Herb-Infused Slow Cooker Beef Stew is a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Its tender meat and aromatic herbs will leave you and your family asking for seconds.

Tomato-Basil Beef Stew

This Mediterranean-inspired stew combines succulent beef with the bright flavors of tomatoes and fresh basil. The low-sodium preparation ensures that you enjoy a heart-healthy meal without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium beef stock
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Brown the beef and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
3. Add diced tomatoes, beef stock, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
4. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for 1 hour.
5. Add zucchini and squash; cook for an additional 20 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tomato-Basil Beef Stew is a vibrant, nutritious dish that brightens any weekend. The fresh vegetables and basil create a refreshing balance, making this recipe a standout option for a flavorful low-sodium meal.

Mushroom & Barley Beef Stew

This earthy stew blends the hearty textures of beef and barley with the rich flavors of mushrooms. It’s a satisfying, low-sodium dish that’s perfect for those who appreciate a rustic and hearty meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sear the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms in the same pot until softened.
3. Add beef, barley, beef broth, water, rosemary, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.

Mushroom & Barley Beef Stew is a wholesome meal that combines nutrient-rich barley with the umami of mushrooms. Its comforting flavor profile makes it a delightful addition to your low-sodium recipe collection.

Sweet Potato & Beef Stew

This unique beef stew pairs the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory beef and aromatic spices. It’s a healthy, low-sodium option that’s both hearty and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large sweet potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup butternut squash, diced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sear the beef until browned.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 3–4 minutes.
3. Add sweet potatoes, squash, chicken broth, cinnamon, cumin, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Sweet Potato & Beef Stew offers a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors. Its unique spice blend and nutrient-dense ingredients make it a must-try for those seeking a healthy yet indulgent meal.

Savory Herb & Veggie Beef Stew

This savory beef stew is a vegetable-packed delight, full of rich flavors and hearty textures. Infused with a medley of fresh herbs, it’s a low-sodium option that satisfies the taste buds while keeping your health in mind.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 cup green peas
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened.
3. Return the beef to the pot. Add the potatoes, carrots, green peas, corn, beef broth, and water. Stir in basil, oregano, and black pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Savory Herb & Veggie Beef Stew is a robust and satisfying dish that highlights the power of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. The combination of potatoes, carrots, peas, and corn adds a healthy balance of nutrients while delivering a comforting, low-sodium meal.

Spicy Beef & Pepper Stew

For those who like a little heat, this spicy beef stew brings bold flavors through a blend of chili peppers and aromatic spices. Despite its fiery kick, it remains low in sodium and full of nutrition, perfect for a weekend meal that packs a punch.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (no added salt)
• 2 red bell peppers, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 poblano peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 jalapeño, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and peppers (bell, poblano, and jalapeño, if using) for 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef back into the pot. Stir in tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and black pepper.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime, if desired.

Spicy Beef & Pepper Stew is the perfect balance of heat and hearty flavor. With the combination of various peppers and spices, it brings excitement to a low-sodium dish. Ideal for those looking to spice up their weekend meal routine.

Lemon-Dill Beef Stew

This bright and refreshing beef stew introduces a unique twist with the tang of lemon and the herbal freshness of dill. A perfect option for a lighter, low-sodium stew that still offers a rich depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 small parsnip, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and parsnip until softened.
3. Return the beef to the pot. Add potatoes, beef broth, lemon zest, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours.
5. Before serving, stir in fresh dill and lemon juice for a zesty finish.

Lemon-Dill Beef Stew is a refreshing and light take on traditional beef stew. The tangy lemon and bright dill elevate the flavor profile while maintaining a low-sodium approach. This stew is perfect for those who prefer a more vibrant, citrus-infused dish.

Sweet & Savory Apple-Infused Beef Stew

Combining the sweetness of apples with savory beef creates a surprising yet delicious twist in this low-sodium beef stew. The apples add depth and a slight sweetness, making this recipe a standout for those who enjoy a sweet-savory combo.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 apple, peeled and chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and carrots in the same pot for 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef back to the pot, followed by apples, potatoes, beef broth, sage, cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.
5. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh thyme or parsley.

Sweet & Savory Apple-Infused Beef Stew is a delicious exploration of contrasting flavors. The addition of apples introduces a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and spices. This stew is a comforting, low-sodium choice for any day.

Mediterranean-Inspired Beef Stew

Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this beef stew is light yet satisfying. A combination of tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs creates a dish that is rich in taste without the need for extra sodium, making it a great low-sodium choice.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Brown the beef stew meat, then remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until softened.
3. Add tomatoes, olives, beef broth, oregano, cumin, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the beef to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 hours.
5. Add red wine vinegar just before serving, stirring well.

Mediterranean-Inspired Beef Stew offers a lighter, herb-infused alternative to traditional stews. The combination of fresh tomatoes, kalamata olives, and oregano gives the dish a distinct Mediterranean flair, all while keeping it low in sodium and full of flavor.

Savory Roasted Garlic & Herb Beef Stew

This savory beef stew features the rich depth of roasted garlic paired with fragrant herbs. A low-sodium option, it relies on slow-cooked beef and aromatic vegetables to create a flavorful dish perfect for a weekend meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 head of garlic, roasted (see instructions)
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. To roast the garlic: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic bulb and drizzle with a bit of olive oil. Wrap in foil and roast for 30–35 minutes until soft and caramelized. Squeeze out the roasted garlic and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add the beef back to the pot, followed by potatoes, beef broth, roasted garlic, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.

Savory Roasted Garlic & Herb Beef Stew is a delightful comfort food with the rich, mellow flavors of roasted garlic. The combination of fresh herbs enhances the taste without adding extra sodium, making this stew a satisfying and healthy choice for your low-sodium diet.

Beef & Cabbage Stew with Caraway Seeds

This hearty and robust stew uses the natural sweetness of cabbage, complemented by the warm flavor of caraway seeds. A great low-sodium alternative, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a filling yet healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp caraway seeds
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground paprika

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the beef stew meat on all sides, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage, potatoes, beef broth, caraway seeds, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
4. Return the beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional caraway seeds if desired.

Beef & Cabbage Stew with Caraway Seeds is a wonderfully earthy, filling dish. The caraway seeds lend a distinct flavor that complements the sweetness of cabbage, making it a perfect low-sodium stew for a chilly weekend.

Butternut Squash & Beef Stew

This autumn-inspired beef stew blends the sweetness of butternut squash with tender beef and savory seasonings. Packed with nutrients and low in sodium, it’s an ideal comfort food that also delivers a burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

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. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add the butternut squash, potatoes, beef broth, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well.
4. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours until the squash and beef are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh parsley if desired.

Butternut Squash & Beef Stew is the perfect cozy dish for fall and winter. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the savory beef, while the gentle spices add warmth to the dish. Low in sodium, it’s a nutrient-packed, comforting stew that’s easy to prepare.

Moroccan-Spiced Beef Stew

This Moroccan-inspired beef stew features bold spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, along with tender beef and vegetables. With its rich and aromatic flavors, it’s a low-sodium option that transports your taste buds to a faraway land.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (no added salt)
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried apricots, 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. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and carrots until softened.
3. Add the tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, black pepper, and raisins (or apricots). Stir well.
4. Return the beef to the pot, add zucchini, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.
5. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt.

Moroccan-Spiced Beef Stew is a flavorful dish that combines savory and sweet elements. The spices add complexity to the stew while the raisins or apricots lend a touch of sweetness. This low-sodium recipe is a flavorful way to explore global cuisines while maintaining a healthy diet.

Low-Sodium Beef and Lentil Stew

This hearty beef stew combines the protein-packed goodness of lentils with the tender richness of beef. It’s a filling, low-sodium meal that’s full of fiber and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef stew meat, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, and carrots for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add lentils, beef broth, cumin, turmeric, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well.
4. Return the beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours until lentils are tender and beef is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Low-Sodium Beef and Lentil Stew is a nutrient-dense dish that combines the richness of beef with the heartiness of lentils. This stew is a perfect low-sodium option for a filling, healthy meal that can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!