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: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili when I need a warm and comforting meal that's also nutritious. It combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with robust spices and black beans, all simmered low and slow. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also fills my home with a wonderful aroma that keeps me coming back for seconds. Whether I'm meal prepping for the week or just looking for a hearty dinner option, this chili never disappoints!

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:06:35.290Z

This chili started as an experiment in my kitchen, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it turned out! I wanted to create a dish that was both healthy and filling, and the blend of sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and spices did just that. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite a delight.

One tip I learned along the way is to add the greens near the end of cooking. Spinach or kale can enhance the nutritional value without overpowering the flavors. It's little things like this that bring freshness to the dish, ensuring that each serving is a wholesome experience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich sweetness from tender sweet potatoes
Hearty texture and a medley of flavors
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner

Exploring the Flavors of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are the star ingredient in this chili, offering a natural sweetness that balances the spiciness of the chili powder. When combined with black beans, they create a creamy consistency that enhances the dish's texture. Be sure to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes, so they cook evenly and become tender. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth feel that makes the chili so satisfying.

To amplify the flavors, consider roasting the sweet potatoes beforehand. Toss them in a bit of olive oil and your favorite spices, and roast them at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes until they are golden brown. This will add a caramelized depth to the dish that will elevate your chili to new heights!

Cooking Tips for a Perfect Chili

Slow cooking is key to developing the deep flavors in this recipe. Make sure to set your crockpot to low heat for the full duration of cooking, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Alternatively, if you're short on time, you can cook on high for about 4 hours, but be aware this may yield a slightly less blended flavor profile. Keep an eye on the consistency as well; the chili should be thick but not dry.

If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick! Just be sure to taste as you go, since you can always add more heat, but it’s tough to take it out once it’s in.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This chili is perfect for meal prep, as it freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it's too thick upon reheating.

For serving, I love to top my chili with fresh avocado, cilantro, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Cornbread or a side of tortilla chips also makes for a wonderful accompaniment, giving you a satisfying crunch to balance the soft texture of the chili.

Ingredients

For the Chili

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes. Chop the onions and bell peppers, and mince the garlic.

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell peppers, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir to combine.

Season and Cook

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 8 hours.

Add Greens

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, adjust seasonings if necessary and serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings like avocado or cilantro.

Pro Tips

For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lower-carb option, consider substituting sweet potatoes with cauliflower. This will give you a similar texture while reducing the sweetness and carbs. Simply cut the cauliflower into florets and add them at the same time you would add the sweet potatoes, adjusting cooking time as necessary until fork-tender.

For those who prefer a vegetarian protein, edamame or chickpeas can be great substitutes for black beans. Both options deliver a filling and nutritious boost while varying the texture and flavor profile of the chili.

Eating with Intention

As you enjoy this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili, consider how its hearty ingredients can fuel your body. The fiber from sweet potatoes and black beans contributes to a feeling of fullness, while providing essential vitamins and minerals. This makes the dish not just comforting but also supportive of your wellness goals.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn to keep the dish fresh and exciting. The versatility of this chili allows you to change it up each time you make it, ensuring you’ll never get bored of a comforting classic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this chili?

Absolutely! It freezes well. Just cool it completely and store in airtight containers.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

It's great on its own, but you can serve it with cornbread, rice, or tortillas.

→ What if I don't have black beans?

You could substitute with kidney beans or any other beans you prefer.

→ Can I make this chili spicy?

Yes! Feel free to add chili flakes or hot sauce to ramp up the heat.