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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 carrots, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew! It combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with hearty vegetables, creating a delightful meal that warms my soul. The best part is that I can throw everything into my slow cooker in the morning and let it do the work for me. Coming home to this fragrant dish is always a highlight of my day. Plus, it's packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free comfort food option that my whole family enjoys.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:55:14.258Z

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and with this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew, I found the perfect balance between ease and flavor. I experimented with various combinations of spices and vegetables, ultimately settling on a blend that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully. Letting it slow cook allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a tasty and nourishing stew.

What I love about this recipe is the versatility it offers. You can easily add beans for a protein boost or change up the spices based on what you have on hand. It’s not only a hit at the dinner table but also makes for great leftovers that taste even better the next day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly days.
Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients.
Set it and forget it—easy preparation and cleanup!

      

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

When selecting sweet potatoes for this stew, look for firm, smooth ones without any blemishes or soft spots. Their natural sweetness is crucial for balancing flavors with the other vegetables. I recommend using medium-sized sweet potatoes, as they provide just the right amount of creaminess when cooked. If you prefer a slightly healthier option, try using purple-fleshed sweet potatoes, which add a unique flavor and vibrant color to your dish.

A common mistake is cutting the sweet potatoes unevenly. To ensure uniform cooking, aim for about 1-inch cubes. This size allows them to soften perfectly within the six-hour cooking time without becoming mushy or falling apart. Remember, the key to a great stew is consistency in size, as this helps all the ingredients cook evenly and develop their flavors.

Flavor Enhancements

While the base of this stew is delicious, you can boost its flavor profile even further. Consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat, or a tablespoon of maple syrup to enhance the sweetness if desired. I often include a splash of lime juice right before serving, which brightens the dish and adds a fresh contrast to the sweet potatoes.

Don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices! For instance, fresh thyme or rosemary can infuse your stew with aromatic depth. If you have some on hand, adding a bay leaf during the cooking process can enhance the savory notes. Just remember to remove it before serving, as it's not meant to be eaten whole.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the flavorful stew.

Main Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 carrots, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure all vegetables are diced evenly for consistent cooking. Enjoy the fresh flavors!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stew.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, carrots, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Toss them gently to mix.

Add to Crockpot

Transfer the vegetable mixture to the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Slow Cook

Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and flavors have melded beautifully.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, give the stew a good stir. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this stew by adding your favorite veggies or herbs for extra flavor. It’s a great canvas for creativity.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is excellent for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to five days. Just make sure it's cooled completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up, as it may thicken in the fridge. Consider portioning it out for easy lunches during the week, or serve it as a comforting dinner on a busy night.

For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors actually meld and improve after freezing, so it's a win-win situation!

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. I love serving it with crusty whole-grain bread for dipping, or atop a bed of quinoa for added protein. You could also serve it alongside a simple green salad to brighten up the meal. The contrasting textures and flavors create a balanced plate that everyone will enjoy.

For a touch of gourmet flair, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream just before serving. These toppings add creaminess and zing, elevating the overall experience. Don't forget about the cilantro garnish—its fresh taste is the perfect finishing touch to this hearty dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Absolutely! This stew freezes well, and it's great to have on hand for quick meals.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.