Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Nothing beats a bowl of chili on a cold day! This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili is full of flavor and the perfect cozy meal for the family. Put everything in the crock pot in the morning and come back later to dinner! It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and it’s packed with healthy ingredients that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
• Flavorful: A blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Nutritious: Loaded with sweet potatoes, beans, and vegetables offering great health benefits.
• Leftover Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld beautifully over hours.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures you can easily dice your ingredients without hassle.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 large sweet potatoes (skin removed and cut into cubes)
• 1 onion, diced
• 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 cans diced tomatoes (15 oz. each)
• 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz.)
• 1 can pinto beans
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can kidney beans
• 2 bell peppers, diced (any color works!)

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 T cumin
• 2 T chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ – ½ tsp red chili flakes
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ – 1 tsp sea salt, more or less to taste

Thickening Agent

• ⅓ c tomato paste (more to thicken as desired)

How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Combine all ingredients except the tomato paste into the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 2: Cook the Chili

Cook on high for 4–6 hours or low for 6–8 hours until sweet potatoes are soft. Check occasionally to stir if needed.

Step 3: Thicken the Chili

Once sweet potatoes are fully softened, add in tomato paste to thicken your chili. Allow to sit for several minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your chili hot with toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or cilantro if desired. This dish tastes even better the next day, so saving leftovers is always a bonus! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Serving your Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili can elevate the meal experience. Here are some ideas to make each bowl special and delicious.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Shredded Cheese: Add a sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamy texture.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring richness and balance to the chili’s spice.
• Cilantro Garnish: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
• Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili’s flavors.
• Fresh Salad: A light green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.

Create a Chili Bar

• Customizable Toppings: Offer toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, and lime wedges for guests to personalize their bowls.
• Various Salsas: Include different types of salsa (mild, medium, hot) to cater to diverse tastes.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

To make your Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili even better, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust spices according to your taste. More chili powder can amplify the heat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Adjust Consistency: If too thick, add vegetable broth; if too thin, add extra tomato paste or cook uncovered for a while.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chili to sit after cooking will deepen its flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

Enjoying side dishes alongside your chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: A sweet and fluffy bread that pairs perfectly with spicy chili.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that provides a smooth contrast in texture.
3. Rice or Quinoa: Serve with fluffy rice or protein-rich quinoa as a hearty addition.
4. Baked Potatoes: Tender baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a filling meal.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies add a delicious charred flavor that complements the chili.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers freshness that balances the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Not prepping ingredients properly: Make sure to cut your sweet potatoes and vegetables into uniform sizes. This ensures even cooking and texture.

• Overcooking or undercooking: Keep an eye on cooking times. Sweet potatoes should be soft but not mushy. Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker’s settings.

• Skipping seasonings: Don’t skimp on spices! The flavor is key in this chili. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving to enhance the dish.

• Ignoring texture preferences: If you prefer a thicker chili, add more tomato paste as desired. Modify the consistency based on your personal taste.

• Neglecting storage tips: Store leftovers in airtight containers for maximum freshness. Proper storage helps maintain flavor and texture for future meals.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

• Place in freezer-safe containers.
• Can freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer chili to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot throughout.

• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili:

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili?

Absolutely! You can add different beans, vegetables, or even proteins like chicken or turkey for variety.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red chili flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick of heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just plug in your slow cooker in the morning!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili?

Consider pairing it with cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it topped with cheese or avocado, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try today!

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Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili, a delightful dish that brings together an array of wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices, this chili is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutritious elements like sweet potatoes, beans, and vibrant vegetables. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a deliciously hearty meal ready to enjoy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 large sweet potatoes
• 1 onion
• 3–4 garlic cloves
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 can pinto beans
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can kidney beans
• 2 bell peppers
• 1 T cumin
• 2 T chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ – ½ tsp red chili flakes
• ½ tsp pepper
• ½ – 1 tsp sea salt
• ⅓ c tomato paste

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Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients except tomato paste in the slow cooker. Stir well.
2. Cook on high for 4–6 hours or low for 6–8 hours until sweet potatoes are soft.
3. Add tomato paste to thicken the chili and let sit before serving.
4. Serve hot with desired toppings like avocado or cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (on low)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg