Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Natural Meals

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew for dinner because it’s such a comforting and nourishing meal. It’s packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty sweet potatoes, making it both filling and nutritious. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, and I often prepare it on busy days. Coming home to the inviting aroma fills me with joy and warmth. Plus, I can easily adjust the spices to suit my family's taste, ensuring everyone enjoys this wholesome dish.

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:34:36.173Z

When I first made this stew, I was amazed at how simple and delicious it turned out. The combination of sweet potatoes with hearty beans and vibrant vegetables created a dish that was both rich and filling. I learned that using a crockpot allows the flavors to deepen and come together seamlessly over time, which is something you wouldn’t achieve in a hurry.

One of my favorite tips is to give the stew a quick stir before serving. This not only helps mix the flavors even more but also redistributes the ingredients, allowing everyone to enjoy a well-rounded bowl. It’s amazing how such a small step can enhance the overall experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and packed with vitamins from sweet potatoes and veggies.
Effortless cooking with minimal cleanup, thanks to the crockpot.
Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh produce not only contributes to the flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile of your stew. Sweet potatoes should have firm skin and should feel heavy for their size. When choosing bell peppers, go for ones that are taut and glossy; these will be sweeter and provide a nice crunch. By selecting vibrant vegetables, you’ll ensure that each bite is packed with vitamins and a variety of textures, making your stew even more delightful.

Don’t overlook the garlic and onion, as they create a savory base that deepens the overall flavors. Make sure to sauté these aromatic ingredients briefly before adding them to the crockpot. Even though they will cook slowly, a quick 2-3 minutes in a hot pan with a little olive oil can draw out their natural sweetness, adding a layer of complexity to the finished dish.

Cooking and Serving Tips

While this stew is designed to be cooked on low for 6 hours, you can also opt for a high setting if you're short on time. Cooking on high will typically take around 3-4 hours, but make sure to check the sweet potatoes for doneness. They should be tender and easily pierced with a fork; overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables, which can affect the stew's texture. If you're planning to serve this to guests, a low and slow method provides the best flavor amalgamation and aroma.

Serving the stew hot in deep bowls enhances its comforting nature. If you want to elevate the presentation, try topping each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese. This adds creaminess and a tangy flavor that compliments the sweetness of the potatoes. You can also provide a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the stew.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your stew:

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Your ingredients are ready! Let’s move on to the cooking process.

Instructions

Here’s how to create this comforting stew:

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, and then chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic.

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and bell pepper.

Season Your Stew

Add the cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to mix the ingredients well.

Cook on Low

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, stir the stew again and serve hot in bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your wholesome and delicious find! Perfect for any time of the year.

Pro Tips

Feel free to modify the vegetables based on what's in season, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to experiment with different legumes if you want to change up the flavors. Black beans or chickpeas can be excellent alternatives to kidney beans, each offering its own unique taste and texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half of the sweet potatoes with zucchini or butternut squash, which will still provide that comforting, hearty feel while adding new flavors.

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning. Alternatively, if your family prefers milder flavors, you can omit the paprika and cumin or reduce the amounts. Each herb or spice adjustment will influence the overall character of the stew while still keeping it healthy and hearty.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This stew stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve, making it perfect for meal prep. When reheating, add a splash more vegetable broth if the stew appears too thick; this will restore its desired consistency. Gently heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

If you want to make a larger batch for freezing, consider portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers. This way, you can thaw and reheat only what you need later. The stew can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can affect the texture when defrosted.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this stew, just adjust the cooking time if necessary.

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.