Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

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I love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew, especially during the cooler months when I crave something warming and nutritious. Cooking it in a crockpot allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting dish that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances perfectly with the creamy white beans and spices, making it a delightful meal for both weeknights and gatherings. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:33:39.538Z

When I first tried making stew in a crockpot, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it was. The combination of sweet potatoes and white beans creates a satisfying and hearty base, while the spices elevate the flavor profile. I've found that letting it cook low and slow allows the ingredients to meld perfectly, creating a stew that feels both comforting and wholesome.

One key tip I've learned is to layer the ingredients according to cooking time. Placing the harder vegetables like sweet potatoes at the bottom and softer components on top ensures even cooking and prevents mushiness. It’s a healthy, nourishing meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling, perfect for a healthy diet
Easy to make with minimal cleanup
The flavors deepen and improve overnight for great leftovers

      

The Role of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star ingredient in this stew, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked. Their richness comes from complex carbohydrates and fiber, making this dish not just filling but also nourishing. When diced, they should be approximately 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly within the recommended time. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to complement their sweetness.

Selecting sweet potatoes can be straightforward, but do ensure they're firm and free from blemishes. Although orange-fleshed varieties are commonly used, you can experiment with purple sweet potatoes for a unique twist and added antioxidants. Just keep in mind that different varieties may alter cooking time slightly, so check for tenderness with a fork as the timer approaches.

Flavor Enhancers: Spices and Broth

The spices in this stew, particularly cumin and smoked paprika, add depth and warmth. Cumin lends an earthy base note, while smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile. Make sure to use high-quality, fresh spices; stale spices can dull the vibrant taste of the dish. If you find that the stew lacks a certain zest upon tasting, try adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Using a vegetable broth instead of water is key in amplifying the savory elements of the stew. Look for low-sodium varieties to maintain control over the salt content. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, homemade broth is an excellent option. This will not only elevate the dish but allow you to customize seasonings according to your preferences.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This stew is perfect for meal prep! Once cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the leftovers even more delicious. For longer-term storage, consider freezing the stew in portions for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to bring back the desired consistency, as it may thicken during storage.

For serving, the stew pairs beautifully with crusty whole-grain bread for dipping or atop a bed of quinoa for added protein. You can also top the stew with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness. For a bit of indulgence, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can add a creamy element that contrasts with the stew's hearty ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious stew:

Main Ingredients

3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and nutrition!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sweet potatoes, white beans, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Mix until well combined.

Season and Mix

Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Add to Crockpot

Transfer the seasoned mixture into the crockpot and pour in the vegetable broth.

Cook the Stew

Set the crockpot to low and cook for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve hot and enjoy your healthy stew! You can garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Pro Tips

For added richness, consider topping the stew with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to customize this stew based on seasonal vegetables. Carrots or zucchini can be easily added for additional nutrition. Just chop them to a similar size as the sweet potatoes so that they cook evenly. If you're looking to increase the protein content, consider adding some diced cooked chicken or using higher-protein beans, such as chickpeas, in place of white beans.

For those who enjoy a little heat, adding diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes can provide a spicy kick. If you’re not a fan of white beans, navy beans or cannellini beans are great substitutes that maintain the desired texture. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and types of vegetables or proteins you choose to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your stew too thick upon cooking, simply add more vegetable broth, a cup at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved. Conversely, if it’s too watery, remove the lid in the last hour of cooking to allow some steam to escape, which helps to thicken the stew naturally.

Another common issue can occur if the sweet potatoes break down too much and become mushy. To avoid this, try cutting them into larger chunks or also adding them later during cooking. If mushiness does happen, consider blending a portion of the stew for a creamy texture, while leaving some chunky pieces for heartiness.

Ingredient Scaling

Scaling the recipe is simple! If cooking for a larger crowd, you can easily double the ingredients while utilizing a larger crockpot. Just ensure the liquid level covers the vegetables to prevent burning. Alternatively, if you want to make a smaller batch, consider using a slow cooker with a smaller capacity and reducing the ingredients by half, keeping the same cooking times.

Whether cooking for two or twelve, adjust the spices according to taste. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, especially when altering the amount of broth to maintain a balanced flavor profile throughout the cooking process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, frozen sweet potatoes work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I thicken the stew?

You can blend a small portion of the stew and mix it back in or add a cornstarch slurry.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are plant-based.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, spinach, or zucchini.