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; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Favorites

I love coming home to the warm, inviting aroma of this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew. It’s one of those recipes that not only fills your home with a fantastic fragrance but also feeds the soul. The best part is that with just a little prep time, I can set it and forget it while the flavors meld beautifully all day long. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this stew makes a perfect comforting meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering.

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:54:36.284Z

Creating the Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato White Bean Stew was a delightful experience for me. I wanted a dish that would not only be wholesome but also filling. The combination of sweet potatoes and white beans adds a nice sweetness and creaminess that makes every bite satisfying. Cooking it low and slow lets the flavors develop fully, creating a rich and comforting stew.

I find that the addition of fragrant herbs like thyme and rosemary elevates the dish even more. When the stew is ready, I enjoy garnishing it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s a simple touch that really enhances the presentation and flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nourishing ingredients that warm the soul
Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of sweetness
Set it and forget it convenience for busy days

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving a well-balanced flavor in this stew lies in the combination of sweet potatoes and white beans. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and creaminess that complements the hearty white beans, creating a rich texture. The beans provide protein and fiber, transforming this dish into a fulfilling meal that can stand on its own. Don't hesitate to experiment with different varieties of beans, such as cannellini or great northern, if you're looking for a slight change in flavor and texture.

Onions and garlic are essential aromatics that elevate the savory base of this stew. They release their natural oils while cooking, infusing the broth with scents that stimulate the appetite. For onion lovers, you might consider using a yellow onion for its sweetness or a red onion for a sharper flavor. Make sure to sauté them briefly in a pan before adding them to the crockpot to enhance their flavors even more, though this isn't strictly necessary if you're pressed for time.

Techniques for Optimal Cooking

Cooking this stew in a crockpot allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, but timing is crucial. If you choose to cook on high for 3 hours, check the sweet potatoes around the 2-hour mark. Look for them to be fork-tender without being mushy. If you prefer a slower approach, the low setting will ensure a more developed flavor profile over 6 hours. Remember to keep the lid on during cooking, as opening it releases heat and can alter cooking times.

When it comes to seasoning, taste your stew about 30 minutes before it finishes cooking. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed for your palate. For an added burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast right before serving, bringing brightness to the overall dish. Just ensure not to overpower the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
4 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prep the Ingredients

In a crockpot, combine the diced sweet potatoes, white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve

Once ready, stir the stew well and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Tips

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. You can also substitute the white beans with chickpeas for a different texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is perfect for meal prepping! If you're short on time during the week, you can prepare all the chopped ingredients the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and then simply combine everything in the crockpot in the morning. This way, your dinner will be ready and waiting when you return home.

Once cooked, this stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. It also freezes beautifully, making it a great option for batch cooking. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat in the microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve this comforting stew with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or over a scoop of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal. A fresh green salad alongside can balance the dish and add a refreshing element. For added textures, consider topping it with some toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

There are plenty of ways to customize this stew for your taste preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables, like chopped kale or spinach, in the last hour of cooking for a nutritious boost. Spices such as smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne can also introduce an interesting depth of flavor, making each batch uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add more vegetables to the stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to add in other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers for additional nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it suitable for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ How can I spice it up?

For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix before cooking.