Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili, especially on busy days when I want a comforting and nutritious meal without the fuss. The combination of creamy white beans and sweet potatoes creates a harmony of flavors that warms the heart. Plus, the slow-cooking method lets all the spices blend beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. I enjoy coming home to find a delicious meal waiting for me, all thanks to my trusty Crockpot!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:55:16.819Z

When I first discovered this recipe, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying it was. Slow-cooking really brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while keeping the beans creamy and tender. I learned that adding spices at different stages of cooking can enhance the chili's depth, so I like to toss in some smoked paprika at the beginning and add fresh cilantro before serving for that burst of freshness!

After several attempts at perfecting this chili, I realized that using low-sodium vegetable broth makes a significant difference in flavor. It allows me to control the sodium content without sacrificing taste. Plus, the vibrant colors of the ingredients make it visually appealing, making it a favorite not just in my kitchen, but also at gatherings with friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and fiber
Comforting and filling, perfect for chilly evenings
Easily customizable with your favorite spices or toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients of this chili, sweet potatoes and white beans, provide both nutrition and a creamy texture. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a wholesome addition. When diced, they cook down beautifully in a Crockpot, adding natural sweetness and thickness to the chili. White beans, on the other hand, are packed with protein and a mild flavor that complements the spices without overpowering them.

The combination of spices, including ground cumin and smoked paprika, elevates the chili's flavor profile. Cumin adds an earthy depth, while smoked paprika offers a subtle smokiness that intensifies as the chili simmers. Make sure to use fresh spices for the best aroma; stale spices can lead to a flat taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Using a Crockpot for this dish not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows for the flavors to meld gradually. Cooking on low for 6 hours is ideal for achieving tender sweet potatoes that will almost dissolve into the chili, creating a silky texture. If you opt for the high setting, the recipe cooks in about 3 hours, but be sure to watch for the sweet potatoes; they should be fork-tender yet still hold their shape.

A common pitfall when making chili is overloading the Crockpot. If your slow cooker is smaller, consider scaling down the recipe or reducing the amount of broth. Too much liquid can lead to a soupy chili instead of the desired thick and hearty consistency. To thicken the chili further towards the end of cooking, you can mash a portion of the sweet potatoes with a fork right in the pot.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili

Chili Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
3 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

How to Make Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes, chopping the onion and bell pepper, and mincing the garlic. Having everything ready makes the process smooth.

Combine Everything in the Crockpot

In your Crockpot, add the diced sweet potatoes, white beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), onion, garlic, bell pepper, vegetable broth, and spices. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Chili

Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to make sure everything cooks evenly.

Add the Corn

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the corn to heat it through and add a sweet crunch to the chili.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your hearty meal that’s perfect for meal prep!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add more spices or your favorite veggies to the chili
it’s versatile and forgiving. You can also throw in some diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This chili makes an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, placing them in the Crockpot insert and refrigerating it overnight. In the morning, just pop it into the base and let it cook while you're at work. The flavor often improves with time, making leftovers a treat. Store any remaining chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

For longer storage, this chili freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or Crockpot until warmed through. You can add a splash of vegetable broth to adjust the consistency if it thickens after freezing.

Serving and Customization Ideas

Serve this chili warm, garnished with fresh cilantro to enhance the flavors. A squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the sweet potatoes and white beans. If you're looking for extra texture and crunch, consider topping the chili with diced avocado, crumbled tortilla chips, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

This recipe is highly customizable based on your preferences. Try swapping sweet potatoes with butternut squash or adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. For a protein boost, you can incorporate cooked shredded chicken or turkey. Adjust the spices to your taste, adding more chili powder or experimenting with a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well! Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the chili?

It's great on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or with a dollop of sour cream.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, so you can enjoy it as is.

→ How spicy is this chili?

It’s mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or fresh peppers to your liking.