Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew
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; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups kale, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

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I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew on chilly days. It not only warms me up but also fills my home with an inviting aroma that makes it hard to wait until dinner. The combination of sweet potatoes and white beans creates a delightful texture and a nutritious meal that's incredibly easy to prepare. Toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic while I go about my day. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that my family enjoys.

Created by

Marigold Pearson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:38:35.819Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew, I was amazed at how all the ingredients melded together in flavor. I wanted a dish that was not only filling but also loaded with nutrients. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness, while the white beans provide protein and creaminess, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of lemon juice before serving. It brightens up the stew and enhances the flavors beautifully. I've tried different spices, but a simple mix of cumin and smoked paprika brings out the earthy notes. Trust me, this stew will become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Wholesome ingredients packed with nutrients
Effortless preparation leaves time for other tasks
Comforting and satisfying for chilly evenings

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a delicious stew lies in using high-quality ingredients. Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and creaminess that balances perfectly with the earthiness of white beans. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and slightly smooth, avoiding any with blemishes. The white beans, which add protein and fiber, should be thoroughly rinsed to remove any excess sodium from the can, enhancing the overall flavor of the stew.

Onions, carrots, and celery form the classic mirepoix that serves as the flavor base for many stews. Sautéing these vegetables before adding them to the crockpot can deepen the flavor profile, though in this stew, they develop their flavors beautifully in the cooking process. Fresh garlic should be minced right before use to keep its potent aromatic qualities intact, contributing to the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

When using a crockpot, ensure the ingredients are layered properly—liquids on the bottom and solids on top—to guarantee even cooking. If you find that the stew is too thick after cooking, a splash of vegetable broth or water can help achieve the desired consistency. Monitoring the cooking time is crucial; while 6 hours on low is ideal, every crockpot varies slightly, so check for tenderness around the 5-hour mark just to be safe.

The addition of kale in the last half hour is intentional—this timing keeps it vibrant and nutrient-rich, preventing it from wilting into an unappetizing texture. If you want to switch up the greens, spinach or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives. I prefer adding a squeeze of lemon before serving to brighten up the dish and enhance its flavor profile, especially on colder days.

Ingredients

Stew Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups kale, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine the sweet potatoes, white beans, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper.

Cook Stew

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

Add Kale

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the chopped kale to the stew and stir well.

Serve

Before serving, stir in lemon juice if desired. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a different flavor profile. This stew can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep

This stew is an excellent make-ahead option. Once prepared, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’re looking to enjoy it throughout the week, consider doubling the recipe. It freezes well and can be stored for up to three months; just make sure to leave out the kale until reheating, as it can become mushy when frozen.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a touch of vegetable broth to loosen it up if necessary. You can also microwave it in individual portions, just remember to give it a good stir halfway through to ensure even heating. This versatility makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Serving Suggestions

While this stew is hearty enough to stand alone, consider serving it with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad for a balanced meal. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can add creaminess and a tangy contrast to the stew. If you're looking for more spice, a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile and add a nice kick.

For those who enjoy experimenting, think about adding different spices such as turmeric or coriander for an exotic twist. You could also incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, which would complement the sweet potatoes while adding additional texture and color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well! Just allow it to cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use other beans instead of white beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any type of beans, such as chickpeas or kidney beans.

→ Is it possible to make this stew vegan?

Definitely! This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños while cooking or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for extra heat.