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 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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I love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew for busy weeknights when I want a wholesome meal without all the fuss. The combination of sweet potatoes and white beans creates a hearty texture, while the spices elevate the flavors to new heights. It's truly a set-it-and-forget-it dish, perfect for meal prep. Just toss everything into the crockpot, and a few hours later, you’re rewarded with a nutritious stew that's great for both lunch and dinner.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:25:35.278Z

When I first decided to try making a stew in the crockpot, I didn't realize how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. The sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness while the white beans give a creamy texture. The key is to use fresh herbs to elevate the dish's overall profile. I often add a touch of smoked paprika, which gives the stew an earthy depth that is absolutely addictive.

Throughout my experiments, I learned that letting the stew cook low and slow truly develops the flavors over time. Each bowl is like a warm hug on a chilly day. I've even topped it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra pop. This recipe has become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Stew
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a healthy meal.
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
Versatile: customize with your favorite spices and veggies.

Ingredient Insights

The star of this stew is undoubtedly the sweet potatoes, which provide a natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked. They also contribute essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A and potassium. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm with smooth skin. Avoid those with wrinkles or soft spots, as these may be past their prime.

White beans add a hearty bite and protein to the stew, making it a filling meal without meat. Their creamy texture complements the sweet potatoes beautifully. If you're looking for a substitute, you can use chickpeas or cannellini beans. Just ensure they are canned and pre-cooked, as this recipe requires quick preparation.

Cooking Techniques

When preparing your ingredients, be sure to dice your vegetables uniformly for even cooking. For the sweet potatoes, aim for 1-inch pieces; this size will ensure they cook through in about 8 hours on low heat without becoming mushy. If you prefer a firmer texture, feel free to reduce the cooking time by an hour and check for tenderness at intervals.

Temperatures in crockpots can vary, so it's important to check the stew occasionally if you're concerned about the cooking time. If you find your stew is too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth, a half cup at a time, and stir until you achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful experience:

Main Ingredients

3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Ensure everything is prepped to enjoy a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a comforting stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, white beans, diced onion, and minced garlic. Mix well to combine.

Add to Crockpot

Transfer the mixture into the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.

Cook the Stew

Set the crockpot to low and cook for approximately 8 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, stir the stew and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your hearty stew packed with flavor!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in some chopped carrots or bell peppers. Leftovers can be frozen for a quick meal later!

Serving Suggestions

This stew can be served on its own for a light meal or paired with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. Additionally, consider serving it with a fresh salad to balance the hearty flavors. If you'd like to add more protein, you can serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, although the stew is satisfying enough on its own.

For an extra layer of flavor, try topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese. These creamy elements add a wonderful contrast to the spices in the stew and enhance the overall taste experience.

Storage Tips

Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze the stew for up to three months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Portioning it into individual servings can make reheating easy and convenient for quick meals.

When reheating from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much during freezing. Stir occasionally until heated through, and enjoy a wholesome meal any day of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute with pinto beans or chickpeas.

→ How can I make this stew spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste.

→ Can I make this stew on the stovetop?

Yes! Cook on medium heat for about 30-40 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.