Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili – Hearty, Cozy & Flavor-Packed

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili brings bold, comforting flavor with a wholesome twist that feels perfect for busy days and cozy nights. Tender sweet potatoes simmer slowly with beans, tomatoes, and warm spices to create a thick, satisfying chili that fills the kitchen with inviting aroma. This recipe works beautifully for meal prep, freezer meals, or easy weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cooks hands-off in the slow cooker
• Delivers hearty texture without meat
• Balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly
• Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
• Freezer-friendly and family-friendly

Ingredients

Chili Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Chili

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Finish

• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened.
2. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Transfer vegetables to the slow cooker.
4. Add sweet potatoes, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir well to combine.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Add corn for extra sweetness and texture
• Increase chili powder for bolder heat
• Stir in spinach during the last 10 minutes
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for smoky flavor
• Serve thicker by reducing broth slightly

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freeze chili for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Top with avocado or sliced green onions
• Serve with cornbread or crusty bread
• Add tortilla chips for crunch
• Pair with a simple green salad

Frequently Asked Questions

Does sweet potato chili taste sweet?

Sweet potatoes add gentle natural sweetness that balances the spices. The chili still tastes savory and hearty, not sugary.

Can I make this chili spicy?

You can add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to increase heat. Adjust spice gradually to taste.

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day. Flavors deepen as it rests, making it ideal for meal prep.

Can I add meat to this chili?

You can add cooked ground turkey or beef if desired. Stir it in at the beginning with the vegetables.

Ready to Make It?

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili delivers comfort, nutrition, and bold flavor with very little effort. This recipe fits busy schedules and cozy evenings perfectly. Save it now and keep a hearty slow cooker meal ready anytime.

You Might Also Like

• Slow Cooker Turkey Noodle Soup – Light, soothing, and filling.
• Tamale Pie – Hearty and family-friendly.
• Chicken Fajita Queso Dip – Bold and cheesy.
• Baked Feta with Grapes – Simple and elegant.

Print