Slow Cooker Beef and Sweet Potato Chili

There’s nothing better than a warm, comforting bowl of chili—especially when it’s packed with hearty beef, sweet potatoes, and bold spices! This Slow Cooker Beef and Sweet Potato Chili is a nutritious twist on the classic, bringing together rich flavors with a touch of natural sweetness. Unlike traditional chili, which often relies heavily on beans and tomatoes, this version incorporates sweet potatoes, adding a naturally creamy texture and a subtle, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the deep, smoky spices.

Not only does this dish taste amazing, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you go about your day. The low-and-slow cooking method ensures that every bite is infused with rich, slow-simmered flavors, and the ingredients meld together perfectly to create a well-balanced, satisfying dish.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a meal prep-friendly option, or something comforting to serve on a chilly evening, this chili fits the bill. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a wholesome, hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s versatile—easily customizable to suit your spice preference or dietary needs. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 4-5 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 8 hours
• Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 ½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a milder taste)

Seasonings:

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (adds depth and warmth!)
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Avocado slices
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Lime wedges

How to Make It

1. Brown the beef – Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to prevent the chili from becoming too greasy. Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.

2. Sauté the aromatics – In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent. This extra step enhances the flavor of the chili. Add the sautéed mixture to the slow cooker.

3. Add the vegetables and beans – Toss the diced sweet potatoes, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes with green chilies into the slow cooker. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

4. Season generously – Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper over the mixture. Stir to ensure that the seasonings are well incorporated, evenly coating the ingredients for a balanced and bold flavor.

5. Pour in the broth – Add the beef broth (or chicken broth, if using) to the slow cooker. Stir again to combine everything, ensuring the liquid is evenly distributed and will help develop a rich, deep flavor as it cooks.

6. Set it and forget it – Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while the high setting is great for a quicker meal. The chili is ready when the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

7. Adjust and serve – Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired. For a thicker consistency, use a fork or potato masher to lightly mash some of the sweet potatoes. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime.

Tips & Tricks

• Make it spicier! Add a diced jalapeño or an extra dash of cayenne pepper.
• Meal prep friendly – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Vegetarian swap – Omit the beef and double up on beans or add lentils for a protein-packed alternative.
• Thicker chili? Mash some of the sweet potatoes before serving to create a naturally thick texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Nutritious & Filling – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
✅ Easy Slow Cooker Meal – Hands-off cooking with big flavor!
✅ Naturally Sweet & Savory – The perfect balance of warm spices and sweet potatoes.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully.

Pro Tip for Pinterest:

Save this recipe for a cozy and nutritious chili night! Perfect for meal prep, game day, or an easy weeknight dinner. #SlowCookerMeals #HealthyChili #ComfortFood