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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 carrots, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup kale, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew on busy days when I crave something wholesome yet effortless. It’s so convenient to throw everything in the crockpot and let it simmer. The combination of sweet potatoes, hearty vegetables, and warming spices creates a comforting bowl that’s both nutritious and delicious. Plus, it’s a delightful surprise for friends and family! This recipe is my go-to for meal prep, especially in the colder months.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:28:28.107Z

I first discovered this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew during a chilly winter evening. The comforting aroma while it cooked filled my home with warmth and anticipation. I realized how simple ingredients could transform into such a rich and flavorful dish without too much effort.

A specific tip that I love to share is to add a splash of apple cider vinegar right before serving; it brightens the flavors beautifully and complements the sweetness of the potatoes. This stew has since become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for both meal prep and cozy family dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutrient-packed goodness in every bite
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfectly balanced flavors that appeal to everyone

      

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

The combination of cumin and paprika in this stew is essential for building depth. Cumin offers a warm, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, while paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Feel free to experiment with spices; a pinch of cayenne or chili powder can elevate the heat for those who enjoy a little kick. Remember, spices release their flavors best in a slow cooking environment, so make sure to stir them in well before cooking.

For an extra layer of deliciousness, consider adding dried herbs such as thyme or oregano. These aromatics infuse the stew over time, creating a complex flavor profile. If you're using fresh herbs, toss them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from losing their vibrant flavors.

Vegetable Variations and Add-Ins

One of the beauties of this Sweet Potato Stew is its adaptability. You can easily swap in other seasonal vegetables based on what you have on hand. For instance, zucchini or butternut squash can take the place of sweet potatoes for a different twist. Leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard can also work well alongside or instead of kale.

If you're looking to boost protein, consider adding canned beans, like chickpeas or black beans, in the last 30 minutes of cooking. They’ll incorporate their hearty texture without being mushy. This not only enriches the stew but also enhances its nutritional profile.

Storage and Meal Prepping Tips

This stew stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider portioning into single servings for easy reheating later.

When reheating, you may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the stew, as it thickens over time. To refresh the flavors, a dash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving can elevate the dish once again.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious stew:

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 carrots, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup kale, chopped (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a hearty meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your stew:

Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and cutting all the vegetables into manageable pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes for a better texture in the final dish.

Combine in the Crockpot

Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, and paprika to the crockpot. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Season and Cook

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Add Kale and Serve

If using, stir in the chopped kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Once done, ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy warm.

Enjoy your healthy and hearty stew!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some freshly chopped herbs before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew shines on its own but can be beautifully complemented by crusty bread or a side of quinoa for added texture. For a little crunch, serve it with homemade croutons or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds over the top.

For an elevated presentation, consider drizzling a bit of olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt on serving bowls. This not only adds a gourmet touch but also enhances the creaminess of the dish.

Troubleshooting

If you find that your stew is too thick after cooking, don't panic! Simply stir in some extra vegetable broth or even a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. Conversely, if it appears too watery, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to help thicken it up.

Vegetable doneness can vary, especially with different sizes of cuts. If your sweet potatoes or carrots are not fork-tender after cooking, give them additional cooking time and check every 20 minutes to monitor their texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add meat to this stew?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier version. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

The stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, squash, or even mushrooms for added flavor.