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, rinsed and drained; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew on busy days because it’s effortless and packed with flavor. As I let the ingredients simmer together, the aroma fills my kitchen, making it feel like home. The combination of sweet potatoes, beans, and spices not only warms me up but also provides a nutritious meal that's satisfying and delicious. Plus, the best part is that I can set it and forget it, allowing me to spend my time on other things while it cooks!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:10:13.986Z

When I first made this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew, I was amazed by how simple it was to prepare yet how complex the flavors turned out. The secret is letting the ingredients meld over a long cooking time. I added a generous amount of spices to elevate the taste, and it really made all the difference.

After experimenting with various vegetables, I found that the combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, and diced tomatoes provides a satisfying texture and balance in every bite. It’s a perfect dish for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge, making it a go-to for my busy weeks.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and fiber
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew plays a key role in both flavor and nutrition. Sweet potatoes, rich in beta-carotene and fiber, bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked. The black beans add protein and heartiness, making the dish more filling. Meanwhile, tomatoes with green chilies provide a tangy kick and additional moisture, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

The spices used, particularly cumin and paprika, not only elevate the taste but also bring warmth and depth. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to kick things up a notch. These spices work well together and complement the earthy sweetness of the potatoes, creating a comforting stew that's perfect for chilly days.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Results

When preparing this stew, the order in which you layer the ingredients in the crockpot matters. Start with the diced sweet potatoes at the bottom because they take the longest to cook, followed by the beans, tomatoes, and finally the broth and spices on top. This ensures even cooking and prevents the sweet potatoes from becoming mushy while the other ingredients cook.

For those wanting to enhance the depth of flavor even further, you can sauté the onion and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step is optional but can add a lovely caramelization that elevates the overall taste. Just be sure to allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to the crockpot to avoid temperature shock.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients for a delightful stew:

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew:

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, add the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and spices. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Cook on Low

Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The longer, the better; this allows the flavors to deepen and the sweet potatoes to become tender.

Serve & Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your healthy and hearty stew!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try tossing in some chopped bell peppers or carrots. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference for heat and flavor.

Storing and Freezing

This stew is great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth when reheating, as the stew may thicken in the fridge.

If you want to make a larger batch for future meals, this stew freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to enjoy a warm, nutritious meal without any fuss.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to mix it up with this stew based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, you could add kale or spinach towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients. If you're looking to add some grains, consider tossing in quinoa or cooked rice during the last hour of cooking to bulk it up and create an even more satisfying dish.

For a creamier texture, consider blending half of the stew once it's cooked. This can be done with an immersion blender directly in the crockpot. Blending adds a velvety consistency that contrasts beautifully with the whole beans and crunchy vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just let it cool completely and store it in airtight containers.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini would also work well.

→ How long does this stew last in the fridge?

It can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this stew is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure your vegetable broth is also vegan.