Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes, with juice; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth; Fresh cilantro, for garnishing

Highlighted under: Simple Meals

I absolutely love the simplicity and heartiness of this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew. It has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on chilly days when comfort food can lift my spirits. The blend of sweet potatoes, beans, and a variety of spices creates a flavor profile that's both nourishing and delightful. With just a few minutes of prep and a slow cooker doing the work, I can focus on my day while knowing a delicious meal is simmering. It’s an easy way to incorporate more vegetables into my diet.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:21:34.653Z

When I first made this stew, I was surprised at how vibrant and flavorful it turned out, considering the mix of ingredients. The key to a successful stew is layering the flavors, and I found that sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot made a huge difference. It allowed the base to develop a depth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

I also enjoy experimenting with different spices. Recently, I added a pinch of smoked paprika, which brought a unique depth to the stew. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving for an extra kick. It's these small tweaks that keep the recipe exciting and versatile.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients packed with nutrients
One-pot meal that saves time on cleanup
Ideal for meal prep and leftovers

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The sweet potatoes in this stew serve as a natural sweetener as well as a hearty base. Their creamy texture when cooked perfectly complements the beans and vibrant vegetables. Choose firm sweet potatoes that are free of blemishes to ensure the best flavor and texture. Additionally, they can be easily substituted with butternut squash if you're looking for a slight change in flavor while keeping the dish healthy and filling.

Black beans not only add protein but also contribute to the stew’s overall creaminess. They help to thicken the stew as they cook down, binding the flavors together. If you wish to make this dish vegetarian, ensure you are using vegetable broth as mentioned in the recipe. For a different legume alternative, you might consider using chickpeas, which can also add texture and a nutty flavor to the stew.

Perfecting Cooking Techniques

When preparing this stew, the order of adding the ingredients to the crockpot plays a crucial role in achieving the best flavor. Start layering with the harder vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots on the bottom, as they take longer to cook. The softer ingredients, such as tomatoes and black beans, should go on top to avoid overcooking and to maintain their texture. This method helps ensure that each ingredient reaches its optimal doneness without turning mushy.

Cooking time is another essential factor; if you have the flexibility, I recommend going the low-and-slow route for around 8 hours. Cooking on high for about 4 hours is a time-saver, but the flavors might not meld as deeply. A good visual cue to check for doneness is when sweet potatoes easily break apart with a fork and the broth has thickened slightly, indicating it's ready to be served.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a comforting and healthy stew.

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes, with juice
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
Fresh cilantro, for garnishing

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your stew for the crockpot.

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, then chop the onion, bell pepper, carrots, and garlic. This will ensure everything cooks evenly and flavors develop well.

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, add the diced sweet potatoes, chopped vegetables, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices. Stir everything together to mix the ingredients evenly.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, depending on your schedule. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

This stew can be enjoyed on its own or served with crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a dollop of coconut milk right before serving, which adds a delightful creaminess and richness.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by pairing it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or over a bed of quinoa for added protein and texture. If you're serving guests or want to make a special occasion of it, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices on top just before serving, which adds creaminess and balances the spices beautifully.

To enhance the stew’s flavor profile, try adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a dash of hot sauce at serving time. These additions can brighten the dish and add an exciting layer of flavor, making it even more enjoyable.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

One of the great things about this stew is its versatility for meal prep. Store leftover portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays, allowing the flavors to develop even further as it sits. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.

For longer storage, this stew freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat, adding water or broth to loosen if needed. This method ensures that you always have a nutritious and fulfilling meal ready to go.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?

You can use regular potatoes or butternut squash as a substitute if you prefer.

→ How spicy is this stew?

The level of spice is mild due to the chili powder, but you can add more or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked chicken or turkey for an additional protein boost.