Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love making Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili on busy days when I need a nutritious meal without much hands-on cooking. The slow cooker does all the work for me, allowing the flavors to deepen while I go about my day. The combination of sweet potatoes, beans, and spices creates a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into our meals. Our family always looks forward to this warming chili, and it makes excellent leftovers too!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:17:34.483Z

One of the things I love about making this chili in the crockpot is how everything can be prepped ahead of time. It’s a simple mix of sweet potatoes, black beans, and bell peppers, combined with my favorite spices for a burst of flavor. I remember the first time I tried it; the sweet and spicy elements balanced perfectly, and my family was smitten!

As the chili simmers all day, I’ve noticed that the longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together, creating a rich and satisfying meal. A tip I’ve learned is to add a splash of lime juice right before serving for an extra layer of brightness that brings the dish to life!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and filling without sacrificing flavor
Easy one-pot meal that saves time and cleanup
Can be customized with your favorite ingredients

Understanding the Ingredients

In this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili, sweet potatoes are the star ingredient. Their natural sweetness balances the spice of the chili powder and cumin, leading to a well-rounded flavor profile. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth, unblemished skin, as they will yield the best texture. If you prefer a vegan option without any meat, the addition of black beans provides protein and fiber, making this dish both hearty and healthy.

The use of fresh garlic and onion not only enhances the flavor base of the chili but also adds depth and aroma. If you're running short on time, consider using pre-chopped vegetables or frozen options. However, cutting your own ingredients allows for a more vibrant taste and texture. Remember that the longer these ingredients cook together, the more flavorful your chili will become.

Cooking Tips for the Best Chili

When combining the ingredients in the crockpot, ensure that they are evenly distributed. This helps in achieving a consistent texture throughout the chili. Be mindful of the liquid levels; if you prefer a thicker chili, feel free to reduce the vegetable broth by about half a cup. It’s important to stir occasionally during cooking if your slow cooker allows; this can prevent any ingredients from settling and burning at the bottom.

If you find that the chili is a bit too sweet for your liking due to the sweet potatoes, consider adding an extra splash of lime juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper right before serving. This will give a nice contrast to the sweetness and create a more balanced dish.

Ingredients

For the Chili

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients

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

Combine in the Crockpot

Add all the prepared ingredients into the crockpot: sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook on Low

Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 8 hours. If you're short on time, you can set it to high for 4 hours.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooking is complete, stir the chili and taste, adjusting seasonings if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, serve the chili with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt. You can also freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this chili is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. If you want to store leftovers, let the chili cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, which makes it ideal for meal prep during a busy week.

For longer storage, consider freezing any leftovers. Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, and they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the chili overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili stands well on its own, but it can be elevated with a few tasty toppings. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess, while fresh cilantro or avocado slices provide a refreshing contrast. If you're looking to add some crunch, avocado corn tortilla chips make a delightful accompaniment.

Additionally, feel free to serve this chili over a bed of rice or quinoa to create a heartier meal. Not only will this add texture, but it also stretches the serving size if you're feeding a crowd. You can even transform leftovers into a delicious burrito filling by wrapping it in a tortilla with cheese and fresh veggies!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other beans instead of black beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute with kidney beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

→ Is it possible to make this chili gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your vegetable broth is labeled gluten-free.

→ Can I add meat to this chili?

Yes, you can add ground turkey or beef if you prefer a non-vegetarian version. Brown the meat before adding it to the crockpot.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.