Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Daily Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew on busy days when I want a wholesome meal without the hassle. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and nourishing white beans creates a stew that's not only filling but incredibly satisfying. Plus, the crockpot method means I can set it and forget it while I tackle my day. Each serving is packed with nutrients, making it perfect for families or meal-prepping for the week ahead!

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:21:35.029Z

When I first decided to try a stew made in the crockpot, I knew I wanted something hearty yet nutritious. This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew quickly became a family favorite. The sweet potatoes provide a lovely sweetness that balances perfectly with the creaminess of the white beans. I love how the long, slow cooking really melds the flavors together for a deep, satisfying taste.

One tip that I've found really helps is to use fresh herbs over dried ones, which brighten up the dish even more. I always toss in a handful of fresh parsley just before serving to elevate the stew's flavor. It’s these little tweaks that make such a big difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting and hearty, perfect for chilly days
Packed with nutrients and wholesome ingredients
Easy to prepare and cooks mostly unattended

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Choosing the right sweet potatoes is crucial for this stew. Look for firm, smooth-skinned potatoes without any blemishes or soft spots. The sweetness of the potatoes will balance the savory components of the stew, but if you prefer a less sweet flavor, feel free to substitute with butternut squash. Additionally, using canned white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, saves time, as they are pre-cooked. If you opt for dry beans, just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand, as their cooking time will vary significantly.

The inclusion of garlic and onion not only adds depth of flavor but also contributes to the stew's aromatic profile. For an extra kick, consider sautéing the onion and garlic in a little olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This step enhances their sweetness and richness, making the final dish exceptionally fragrant. While you can use yellow onions, shallots or red onions would introduce a slightly different flavor profile that could be interesting to experiment with.

Cooking Method Insights

Using a crockpot for this stew not only simplifies the cooking process but also melds the flavors beautifully over time. When cooking on low for eight hours, the sweet potatoes break down and thicken the broth, giving the dish a comforting texture. If you’re short on time and need to cook on high, ensure that you cut the sweet potatoes into smaller pieces to promote even cooking, checking for tenderness around the three-hour mark to avoid overcooking.

If you want to boost the flavor even further, consider adding a splash of acid, like lemon juice or a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, just before serving. This brightens the dish and counteracts some of the sweetness from the sweet potatoes. Chapparal or bay leaves could also be added during cooking for additional depth, but remember to remove them prior to serving, as they’re not edible.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious and healthy stew:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped before you start the cooking process for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, white beans, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Stir to mix well.

Add to Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to your crockpot and pour in the vegetable broth. Stir in the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your healthy meal!

This stew holds well in the refrigerator, making it great for meal prep!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.

Make-Ahead Tips

This stew is an excellent option for meal prep, as its flavors continue to develop over time. You can prepare the ingredients the night before, allowing you to simply toss them into the crockpot in the morning. Alternatively, you can make a large batch and freeze individual portions. Just be sure to cool the stew completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months. When reheating, use the stove or microwave until it’s heated through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.

One of my favorite ways to utilize leftovers is to transform them into a hearty sauce for grain bowls. Simply reheat the stew and serve it over quinoa or brown rice for a balanced meal packed with protein. You could also add sautéed greens or a simple side salad to increase the nutrient content and variety.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew is versatile in terms of serving options. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. A dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt adds creamy texture, and a sprinkle of chili flakes introduces a slight kick if desired. For a touch of brightness, serve with an additional squeeze of lemon juice or a cilantro garnish, which complements the earthy flavors beautifully.

For those looking to elevate the dish even further, consider adding toppings like roasted pumpkin seeds or hemp hearts for added crunch and nutrition. These additions not only enhance the texture but also boost the overall nutritional profile, making your meal even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes. Just be mindful that they may cook faster due to being pre-cooked.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ Is it possible to freeze the stew?

Absolutely! You can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.