Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili is a hearty, comforting, and nourishing dish that highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes paired with the earthy richness of black beans. This plant-based chili offers a perfect balance of flavors—warm spices, mild heat, wholesome vegetables, and a deep, satisfying texture that slow cooking helps develop beautifully.

It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with enticing aromas and delivers a nutritious, satisfying bowl of goodness without requiring much hands-on effort. Perfect for busy days, cold evenings, or meal prep, this chili brings warmth and healthfulness together in one pot.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity with incredible depth of flavor. The slow cooker transforms basic pantry staples into a flavorful, cozy chili that tastes like it simmered all day—even though it requires minimal prep.

The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the spices and the creaminess of the black beans. It’s naturally vegetarian, easily made vegan, and packed with fiber and nutrients. It’s also a recipe that reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prepping. Whether you love wholesome comfort food or simply want an easy dinner, this recipe has everything.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it proves that healthy meals can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The chili is nutrient-dense, filling, and perfect for feeding a family without stretching your budget. It’s customizable to any spice preference, works as a vegan main course, and freezes exceptionally well.

The set-it-and-forget-it nature of the slow cooker makes it perfect for busy schedules. Additionally, the blend of sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a thick, rich chili that tastes even better the next day.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time 15 minutes
Cooking Time 6 to 8 hours on low
or
3 to 4 hours on high
Total Time 6–8 hours (slow-cooked)
Servings 6 servings
Calories Approximately 280–320 calories per serving
Course Main Course
Cuisine American / Southwestern

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (added at the end)

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Shredded cheese
• Avocado slices
• Tortilla chips

Cooking Directions

1. Add diced sweet potatoes, black beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
3. Add the bay leaf if using.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until sweet potatoes are soft.
5. Stir in lime juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve warm with desired toppings.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even cubes.
2. Rinse and drain black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
3. Dice onion and bell peppers; mince garlic.
4. Place sweet potatoes, beans, vegetables, tomatoes, and tomato sauce in the slow cooker.
5. Add all spices, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour vegetable broth over the mixture and stir to combine everything evenly.
7. Add bay leaf on top.
8. Cover the lid and set the slow cooker to low or high depending on preferred cook time.
9. Once cooked, the sweet potatoes should be tender and the chili thickened.
10. Stir in lime juice and remove the bay leaf.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning.
12. Serve hot with optional toppings.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve in deep bowls and garnish with cilantro, cheese, sour cream, or avocado.
• Pair with cornbread, warm tortillas, or crusty bread for a heartier meal.
• Add a squeeze of lime for freshness.
• Serve with a side salad for a lighter pairing.
• For a chili bar, set out various toppings like jalapeños, chips, or shredded cheese.

Recipe Tips

• Cut sweet potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly.
• For a thicker chili, mash some sweet potatoes at the end of cooking.
• Adjust spice levels by adding more cayenne or chili powder.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra smoky flavor.
• If the chili becomes too thick, add a splash of broth before serving.
• Add corn for extra sweetness and texture.

Variations

Spicy Version

Add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smoky heat.

Vegan Creamy Version

Stir in 1/2 cup coconut milk or cashew cream at the end.

Protein Boost

Add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or tofu.

Extra Veggie Version

Add zucchini, corn, carrots, kale, or spinach during the last hour of cooking.

Tex-Mex Style

Top with queso fresco, jalapeños, and serve with warm tortillas.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigeration

Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Freezing

Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Add a splash of broth if it thickens upon reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker (4–6 quart)
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes. Simmer for 45–60 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Fresh sweet potatoes work best; canned ones will become too mushy.

Can I make this recipe spicier?
Add chipotle, jalapeños, cayenne, or extra chili powder.

Does it freeze well?
Yes, this chili freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months.

Can I use kidney beans or pinto beans instead?
Absolutely. Any beans you like will work.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili is a flavorful, nourishing, and comforting dish that offers a beautiful blend of sweetness, spice, and hearty texture. It’s easy to prepare, relies on wholesome ingredients, and is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weekday meal, a meal prep option, or a warm bowl of comfort on a cold evening, this chili is an excellent choice. With its rich flavors, simplicity, and satisfying depth, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.