Imagine a chilly weekend afternoon when the scent of sweet potatoes and smoky spices starts wafting through your kitchen. Instead of fussing over a simmering pot, you set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do the heavy lifting. The magic lies in how this chili gently stews, developing a richness that feels like a warm hug from an old friend.
What makes this recipe stand out is its unassuming charm—simple ingredients transformed into a hearty, vibrant dish. The sweetness of the potatoes balances the fiery kick of chili spices, creating a symphony of comforting flavors. It’s perfect for busy days when you crave something nourishing but don’t want to stress over it.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- The slow cooker ensures flavors meld smoothly without constant attention.
- The natural sweetness of the potatoes adds depth to spicy, savory broth.
- I love how versatile it is—vegetarian, gluten-free, yet satisfying enough for everyone.
- Cooking it all day fills the house with an incredible, inviting aroma.
- It’s a nostalgic nod to hearty family dinners with a modern, healthy twist.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to peel the sweet potatoes? They turn mushy. Peel to avoid over-softening.
- DUMPED too much liquid? Oversell with broth and reduce the heat; simmer uncovered.
- OVER‑TORCHED the spices? Scratch that batch, start fresh with milder seasonings.
- FORGOT to add beans? Toss in canned black beans in the last 30 minutes for texture.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When the chili’s too thick, splash in hot vegetable broth to loosen it up.
- Patch bland flavor by stirring in a dash of smoked paprika or cumin.
- Shield the chili from overcooking by switching to low heat after initial simmer.
- When it smells burnt, quick-scrape the bottom and add a spoonful of tomato paste.
- When in doubt, open a can of diced tomatoes for a fresh, tangy boost.
This sweet potato chili is more than a meal—it’s a seasonal hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights and chilly days. It combines simplicity with depth, making it a true comfort food staple.
As the flavors meld in the slow cooker, I find myself craving this dish on mornings when the air turns crisp. It’s a reminder that even the simplest ingredients can come together to create something truly satisfying, especially when cooked with care and patience.
Sweet Potato and Chili Slow Cooker Stew
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Vegetable peeler
- Cutting Board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes fire-roasted or plain
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into approximately 1-inch cubes, setting them aside for later.
- Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves to prepare for sautéing.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onion, cooking until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the slow cooker.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained black beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together to evenly coat the sweet potatoes and vegetables with the spices and liquids.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the sweet potatoes to become tender.
- Once cooking is complete, check the stew for tenderness— the sweet potatoes should be soft and easily pierced with a fork.
- Give the stew a gentle stir, taste and adjust salt or seasonings as needed.
- Scoop the hearty chili into bowls and serve hot, enjoying the comforting aroma and rich textures.
Notes
The beauty of this chili is its ability to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Whether you throw in extra corn, a splash of lime, or a handful of fresh cilantro, it’s your canvas for seasonal creativity. Plus, the long slow cooking ensures every bite is bursting with flavor, making it ideal for busy weekends or lazy nights.
Share it with loved ones or keep it for yourself on a chilly evening—they’ll appreciate the comforting nature of this dish. As the seasons shift, this chili reminds us that good food can turn ordinary ingredients into something truly special. It’s a simple yet soul-satisfying way to celebrate the start of cozy, flavorful days ahead.
