Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Chili on busy days. The beauty of this dish is that you can throw all the ingredients into the crockpot in the morning, and by dinnertime, you have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you. The combination of sweet potatoes and white beans creates a satisfying texture, while the spices infuse the chili with rich flavors. It’s a perfect balance of nutrition and comfort, making it a favorite in our household!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T04:10:15.669Z

I recall the first time I made this chili; the whole house filled with a delightful aroma that hints at home. Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness while the creamy white beans make it hearty. I experimented with adding different spices over the years, and I found that a sprinkle of smoked paprika really elevates the flavor profile!

Another favorite detail is the garnishing. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of cilantro creates a burst of freshness that complements the warmth of the chili. Trust me, this quick and healthy meal will transform your weeknight dinner into something special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors with a hint of spice
Nutritious and filling without being heavy
Perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners

      

Ingredient Highlights

Sweet potatoes are the star of this chili, not just for their sweetness but also for their health benefits. Packed with vitamins A and C, they add both nutrition and a creamy texture as they cook down. When diced into uniform chunks, they ensure even cooking and melding of flavors throughout the dish. If you're looking for a quicker prep, you can use pre-peeled and diced sweet potatoes available at most grocery stores.

White beans are excellent for adding protein and fiber to this dish, making it both hearty and filling. They soften beautifully during the slow cooking process, contributing a creamy consistency without the need for heavy creams or starches. If you’re out of white beans, navy beans or cannellini beans can be perfect substitutes, maintaining the chili's intended texture.

Cooking Techniques

When combining the ingredients in the crockpot, ensure that the sweet potatoes are fully submerged in the vegetable broth. This not only helps with even cooking but also allows the flavors from the spices and other ingredients to infuse into the sweet potatoes. I recommend using a stir to break up any clumps while mixing, ensuring that all spices are evenly distributed.

If you're short on time, this chili can also be made on the stovetop. Simply bring all the ingredients to a boil in a large pot, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender. Just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially towards the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings that enhance both flavor and texture. A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess, while fresh cilantro offers a burst of freshness. Avocado slices can also bring in a delightful richness – a perfect balance against the spices in the chili. Feel free to experiment with toppings like shredded cheese or a sprinkle of lime juice for an added zing.

For meal prep, consider doubling the recipe. This chili freezes incredibly well, so it’s perfect for making ahead. I recommend portioning it into airtight containers or freezer bags, letting it cool completely before freezing. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop, and if needed, add a splash of broth to loosen up the chili once it's reheated.

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: Greek yogurt, cilantro, avocado

Combine these ingredients in your crockpot, and you'll have a delicious chili ready with minimal effort.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic, ensuring everything is ready to go into the crockpot.

Combine in the Crockpot

Add the diced sweet potatoes, white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper into the crockpot.

Cook

Set your crockpot to low and cook for about 8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, give it a good stir and taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes.

This simple method makes dinner effortless and satisfying!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider adding some corn or bell peppers to the mix! You can also make it spicier by adding diced jalapeños.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Any leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to transfer it to an airtight container. When reheating, I suggest doing so on low heat to avoid burning the bottom. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, especially if you've frozen it and are defrosting it directly in a pot.

If you’ve frozen your chili, it’s best to allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. However, if you're short on time, you can reheat it directly from frozen over low heat; just be patient as it will take longer to warm through properly.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this chili by adding your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can be wonderful additions that will add different textures and flavors. Just chop them into similar sizes as the sweet potatoes for even cooking, and toss them in with the rest of the ingredients at the beginning.

For a smoky flavor, adding diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can elevate the spice profile of your chili. Start with just one or two peppers, finely diced, and adjust based on your heat preference. This smaller addition can make a significant difference in the overall depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make this chili vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ How can I thicken the chili?

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the sweet potatoes after cooking, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water while it simmers.

→ Is it spicy?

It's mildly spiced, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more chili powder or fresh peppers.