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: 4 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, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal. With aromatic spices and the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, it’s both comforting and nutritious. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work. The flavors meld beautifully over time, and the result is a dish that warms both body and soul. It has quickly become a staple in my weekly meal prep!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:22:13.159Z

When I first attempted this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew, I was looking for something hearty yet light to fit my busy week. The convenience of a slow cooker meant I could prep it in the morning and come home to a delightful aroma. Each bite delivers a comforting blend of sweetness and warmth that lifts my spirits after a long day. I also love adding a squeeze of fresh lime before serving to brighten the flavors!

What surprised me was how the spices developed during the longer cooking time. By sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot, I was able to infuse a deeper flavor into the stew. Don’t skip this step – it’s a game-changer! Now this stew is not only a family favorite but also a perfect choice for meal prep that keeps well in the fridge.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling without weighing you down
Bursting with natural flavors from fresh ingredients
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins

      

Ingredient Insights

Sweet potatoes are the star of this stew, providing not only natural sweetness but also a rich source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with blemishes or soft spots. Cutting them into evenly sized cubes ensures they cook uniformly, resulting in a delightful texture throughout the dish.

Black beans not only add a protein-packed punch to this stew but also contribute to its heartiness. If you prefer, you can swap in other legumes like kidney beans or chickpeas for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; canned varieties will cook faster, while dried beans require pre-soaking.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the crockpot enhances the stew's depth of flavor. Aim for translucent onions and fragrant garlic; they should not be browned, which could impart a bitter taste. This step is crucial for laying a flavorful foundation as the stew simmers.

For optimal results, keep the crockpot covered during cooking to retain steam and heat. If you find the stew is too thick after cooking, a splash of vegetable broth can help you achieve the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, remove the lid in the last hour to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful and nutritious stew:

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, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This step adds depth to the stew.

Add to Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and sautéed onions and garlic.

Season and Cook

Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cover the crockpot.

Let it Simmer

Set your crockpot on low for 6 hours. The longer, the better – let those flavors develop!

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, finish with a squeeze of lime juice and garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy stew!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in any of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrition! This stew also freezes well, so make a batch and save some for a busy day.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew is perfect for meal prep! After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

If you want to extend its lifespan, consider freezing portions of the stew. It freezes well for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally or use the microwave in 1-minute intervals.

Serving Suggestions

This stew can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or over a bed of cooked quinoa for added protein. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate the dish by introducing creamy and tangy elements, balancing the stew’s sweetness.

Feel free to customize your toppings! Avocado slices add creaminess, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a spicy kick. For a fresh contrast, consider adding a handful of diced avocado or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian; just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.

→ How long does the stew keep in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes give a unique flavor and sweetness.

→ Is there a way to speed up the cooking time?

If you're short on time, you can cook this stew on high for about 3 hours instead of low for 6 hours.