Heart Healthy Beef and Sweet Potato Stew

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 9/24/2025
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | Gluten Free | Diabetic
Heart Healthy Beef and Sweet Potato Stew
Photo Credit: iStock

This healthy sweet potato and beef stew is the epitome of comfort food and full of unique flavor. Tender beef, sweet potatoes and fresh ingredients come together in this low carb, yet hearty stew that is perfect for a diabetic diet. This tasty stew can be made ahead of time for meal prepping and is also freezer friendly!

Looking for more diabetes friendly options? Add these delicious diabetic recipes to your menu or meal plan!

Total Time
75 minutes
Servings
8
Calories
331

What Makes These Heart Healthy Beef and Sweet Potato Stew Healthy

This beef and sweet potato stew is designed for heart-healthy and diabetic-friendly diets by using nutrient-dense ingredients and a lean cut of beef. It is naturally gluten-free and can be easily prepped ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Key Health Highlights

  • Heart-Healthy Fats: This recipe uses lean sirloin tip roast and olive oil, which are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol.
  • Diabetes-Friendly: With complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes and a low sugar count, this stew is designed to help manage blood sugar levels.
  • Low-Sodium: Made with fresh vegetables and minimal added salt, this stew contains only 650mg of sodium per serving, making it a great option for a low-sodium diet.
  • High in Fiber: The sweet potatoes, carrots, and onions provide a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full.
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FAQs About Heart Healthy Beef and Sweet Potato Stew

The best cuts of beef for stew are typically leaner options that become tender when cooked slowly. Lean beef sirloin tip roast is a great choice as it's lower in fat while still providing great flavor.

This specific recipe is designed to be heart-healthy. By using lean beef, healthy fats from olive oil, and fiber-rich vegetables, it can be a part of a diet focused on managing cholesterol levels.

Yes, beef stew can be heart-healthy when prepared with low-sodium ingredients, lean cuts of meat, and a variety of vegetables. This recipe prioritizes these components to create a nutritious and flavorful meal.

More Heart-Healthy Beef & Stew Recipes

Heart-Healthy Beef Recipes

Heart Healthy Beef Tacos
Heart Healthy Top Round Roast Beef with Gravy
Heart Healthy Beef Brisket and Vegetables

Healthy Stews & Soups

Heart Healthy Beef Stew
Chicken Lentil Stew
Heart Healthy Minestrone Soup

Ingredients

Recipe yields 8 servings

Helpful How-To Video

Directions

  1. Step 1

    In a stockpot, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. With a slotted spoon, remove the beef. Add the remaining tablespoon olive oil and heat until hot. Add the onion and sweet potatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened.

  2. Step 2

    Meanwhile, in a blender or food processor, puree tomatoes and their juices.

  3. Step 3

    Return the beef to the pot. Add the tomatoes and the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the carrots. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until the meat and vegetables are tender, about 45 minutes.

  4. Step 4

    Add the chocolate and brewed coffee, stirring until well blended. Add the thyme and parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
About 1 cup

331
Calories
17
g
Fat
39
mg
Cholesterol
650
mg
Sodium
24
g
Carbs
6
g
Sat. Fat
4
g
Fiber
21
g
Protein
8
g
Sugars

Alternative Cooking Methods (Slow Cooker & Instant Pot)

This recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker or an Instant Pot for a hands-off approach.

  • Slow Cooker: After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables as instructed, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
  • Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to brown the beef and sauté the vegetables. Then add all ingredients and pressure cook on high for 25-30 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Serve: For a more complete meal, serve this stew with whole-grain bread or a side salad to boost fiber intake.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freeze: This stew is freezer-friendly! Cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Beef: For a different flavor profile, you can use other lean cuts of beef like bottom round or chuck roast.

  • Potatoes: While sweet potatoes are a key ingredient, you can substitute them with Yukon Gold potatoes or even parsnips for a similar hearty texture.

  • Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap other vegetables you have on hand, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, celery, or zucchini.

  • Coffee: The coffee in this recipe adds depth and richness. If you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a little more beef broth.

  • Low-Sodium: To further reduce the sodium content, use a salt-free beef broth and reduce the amount of salt you add while browning the beef.

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