Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach, chopped (added at the end); Fresh herbs for garnishing, such as cilantro or parsley

Highlighted under: Balanced Kitchen

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils recipe because it’s comforting and packed with nutrients. Using my slow cooker not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the earthiness of the lentils, creating a satisfying dish that I enjoy at any time of the year. Plus, it’s so easy to make—just prep the ingredients, toss them in the crockpot, and let it do the work! It’s one of my go-to meals for busy weeknights.

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:28:37.556Z

When I first tried making lentils in a crockpot, I was amazed at how tender and flavorful they turned out. The magic lies in the extended cooking time, which allows the flavors of sweet potatoes and spices to deepen. I remember stirring in a handful of spinach towards the end, which not only enhanced the color but added a nice nutrient boost without much effort.

This recipe has become my favorite for meal prep. I often make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. The leftovers reheat wonderfully, which means I always have a healthy meal ready to go!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and filling ingredients that satisfy your hunger
Simple preparation with a hands-off cooking method
Versatile: enjoy it on its own or as a side dish

Texture and Flavor Profile

The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils creates a delightful texture contrast in this dish. While the lentils provide a hearty, slightly nutty base, the sweet potatoes add a soft, creamy element when cooked. As the ingredients simmer together, the sweet potatoes break down, thickening the broth and enriching the overall flavor. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for an extra layer of brightness.

Spices play a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of this recipe. The ground cumin contributes a warm, earthy aroma, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Be sure to adjust the spices to your personal preference; adding a bit more smoked paprika can give the dish a lovely depth or swapping some cumin for coriander can brighten the flavor profile.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe uses green or brown lentils, you can easily swap in red lentils for a different texture. Red lentils cook faster and will break down more, creating a creamier consistency. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider adding a can of diced tomatoes or some chopped bell peppers for added nutrition and a pop of color. Remember to adjust the liquid levels slightly if you add more ingredients.

For those looking for a protein boost, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas towards the end of cooking. This will maintain their texture and also amplify the nutritional content. If you're in a hurry or don't have vegetable broth on hand, a good-quality vegetable bouillon cube dissolved in water can serve as an adequate substitute without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

1 cup spinach, chopped (added at the end)
Fresh herbs for garnishing, such as cilantro or parsley

Be sure to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences!

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a crockpot, combine the rinsed lentils, cubed sweet potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic.

Add the Seasonings

Pour in the vegetable broth and add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to mix well.

Cook the Mixture

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6 hours or until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Finish and Serve

If using, stir in the chopped spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Serve warm and enjoy!

This dish can easily be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor punch, try drizzling with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the lentil and vegetable mixture, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. Simply add the broth and spices when you're ready to cook. For longer storage, this dish can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months; just remember to let it cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

When reheating, simply warm it in the microwave or return it to a pot on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to regain moisture. The flavors will even meld more after a day, making leftovers taste just as delicious, if not better! Serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile; while it's satisfying on its own, you can enhance your meal by topping it with fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. A sprinkle of feta cheese can add a burst of salty flavor, balancing the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.

For an extra crunch, consider serving it with homemade crispy chickpeas or pita chips on the side. Pairing this dish with a light salad or steamed veggies can also round out a nutritious meal, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but adjust cooking time. Add canned lentils during the last hour of cooking.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! It’s made entirely from plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Just store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.