Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew for a comforting meal any day of the week. The combination of sweet potatoes, lentils, and spices creates a delightful medley that warms my soul and nourishes my body. Using a crockpot allows for deep flavors to develop while requiring minimal effort on my part. In just a few simple steps, I can have a wholesome stew ready to enjoy, perfect for meal prepping or serving to guests. It’s a dish that combines health and heartiness all in one bowl.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:19:16.752Z

When preparing this stew, I made sure to use fresh ingredients that really elevate the dish. Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with spices while lentils add a hearty texture. I find that letting it cook for an extended time in the crockpot is key—it not only enhances the flavors but also means I have more time to relax. I often prepare it on a Sunday and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week.

In my kitchen, the magic happens when I layer the flavors right from the start. Adding the spices early on means they meld into the vegetables perfectly. I also like to include a splash of lemon juice right before serving for a brightness that really lifts the stew. Each bite is satisfying and full of love, reflecting the time I put into cooking it.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals
Rich flavor profile with a hint of spice and sweetness
Convenient and easy to prepare in a crockpot

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this stew, sweet potatoes, not only contribute a natural sweetness but also provide a creamy texture when cooked. Their vibrant color indicates they are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in the body. Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best results, and ensure they are diced into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making this stew a wholesome meal option. They absorb flavors wonderfully, creating a hearty base alongside the sweet potatoes. You can use green or brown lentils for this recipe, but avoid red lentils, as they tend to become mushy and can alter the stew’s texture. Rinse the lentils thoroughly before adding them to ensure the removal of any debris.

Cooking Technique Tips

Using a crockpot is an excellent way to allow the flavors of the vegetables and spices to meld together beautifully. If you choose to cook on low, plan for about 8 hours; this longer cooking time allows the sweet potatoes to become tender and the lentils to absorb the broth. If you’re short on time, the high setting cooks everything perfectly in just 4 hours, but make sure to check for tenderness before serving.

When adding spices, take care to adjust according to your taste preference. The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne lends a warm, smoky flavor to the stew. If you're sensitive to spice, start with less cayenne and adjust as it cooks. A small taste test just before serving can help you nail the seasoning, making this dish as mild or spicy as you prefer.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Stew:

Ingredients

3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup dry lentils, rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

With these wholesome ingredients, you're well on your way to a delicious meal.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the stew:

Prepare Ingredients

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.

Combine in Crockpot

Add all the prepared ingredients, including the sweet potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and spices into the crockpot.

Cook

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

Final Touches

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a splash of lemon juice and stir well.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Enjoy your hearty and healthy sweet potato stew!

Pro Tips

For added richness, consider topping with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is wonderfully versatile—serve it as a hearty main dish or pair it with crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad on the side; arugula with lemon vinaigrette balances the stew's richness nicely. You can also top each bowl with toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutritional benefits.

For those who enjoy a bit more texture, consider stirring in some leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They will wilt beautifully and add not only color but also extra nutrients. Alternatively, you could top each bowl with avocado slices for a creamy finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This stew is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure it's cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave serving portions until hot.

If you want to extend its life further, consider freezing leftovers. Allow the stew to cool and portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer to the refrigerator the night before and reheat as mentioned before. Just note that the texture of sweet potatoes may slightly change after freezing, but it will still be delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of beans or vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with black beans, chickpeas, or your favorite seasonal vegetables.

→ How long does it last in the refrigerator?

The stew will last for about 5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs well with whole grain bread, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.