Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 carrots, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Kitchen

I absolutely love making Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew during the cooler months. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that fills the kitchen with delightful aromas while it simmers away. The combination of sweet potatoes, hearty vegetables, and aromatic spices mingle beautifully for a comforting dish that warms the soul. Using the crockpot gives me the freedom to spend time with family while dinner is being prepared, creating a satisfying meal without the fuss. Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll want to save for those busy days!

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:33:35.206Z

When I first tried my hand at a sweet potato stew, I was surprised by how easy it was to adapt to my family's tastes. I experimented with different vegetables and spices until I found the perfect balance. One of my favorite tips is to use vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor. It takes the dish to a whole new level!

Another aspect I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. Plus, it’s a perfect meal prep dish that tastes even better the next day!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Satisfying and nutritious with a blend of textures and flavors
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and spices
Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

When selecting sweet potatoes for this stew, look for firm, smooth-skinned tubers with no blemishes. The color can range from light yellow to deep orange, but I prefer the vibrant orange varieties for their sweetness and creamy texture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-peeled sweet potato cubes found in the produce section; just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may cook quicker than whole sweet potatoes.

Sweet potatoes are the star ingredient here, not only adding natural sweetness but also a rich source of vitamins A and C, and fiber. Their starchiness helps to thicken the stew, giving it a deliciously hearty consistency. For variations, you could also mix in other root vegetables like parsnips or butternut squash, enhancing the overall flavor profile while keeping it nutritious.

Enhancing Flavor with Spices

The spices in this stew are essential for building depth of flavor. Ground cumin adds a warm earthiness, while smoked paprika provides a subtle smokiness that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the potatoes. If you're looking to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat or a teaspoon of dried oregano for an herbal nuance. Just remember to adjust seasonings to taste as you go along!

To ensure the spices release their full flavor potential, I recommend toasting them briefly in a dry pan before adding to the crockpot. Just a minute or so over medium heat until fragrant can make a notable difference in the dish's aroma and taste. This technique will bring out the nuances of each spice, contributing to a more complex and satisfying stew.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this warm and hearty stew:

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 carrots, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Ensure all your ingredients are prepped before placing them into the crockpot.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stew:

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, chopped carrots, onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Toss them together to mix evenly.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the vegetable mixture to your crockpot. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine well.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Enjoy this delicious stew on its own or with a side of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For extra protein, consider adding chickpeas or lentils to the stew. You can also adjust the spices to your preference for a spicier kick!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. To store, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

When reheating, the stew can be warmed up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave, heating it in 1-minute increments, stirring in between. If the stew thickens during storage, simply add a bit of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the sweet potato stew warm, garnished with fresh cilantro to provide a bright contrast that enhances the dish's flavors. For added richness, a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream can also work wonderfully, complementing the spices nicely. Serving with a side of crusty whole-grain bread is perfect for dipping and makes for a complete meal that’s comforting and satisfying.

For a heartier option, consider pairing your stew with a side salad featuring leafy greens and a vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing element to the meal while keeping it health-conscious. Variations can also include serving over cooked quinoa or brown rice, turning the stew into a grain bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Frozen vegetables work well, saving you some prep time.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.