Hearty Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili Recipe

Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili Recipe: A Hearty Fall Comfort

Crafting an incredible sweet potato black bean chili brings comfort and warmth to your dinner table.

Hearty vegetables mingle with robust spices, creating a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate.

Nutritious ingredients transform this classic dish into a powerhouse of health and satisfaction.

Chunky sweet potatoes add unexpected texture and natural sweetness to the traditional chili profile.

Protein-packed black beans provide a delightful depth that makes each spoonful rich and satisfying.

Balanced seasonings weave through the ingredients, promising a meal that feels both familiar and exciting.

Savor this recipe and watch as simple ingredients become a memorable culinary experience you’ll want to share.

Flavor Twists for Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

  • Spicy Chorizo Kick: Replace black beans with chorizo sausage for a meat-lover's protein-packed version, adding extra heat and smoky flavor.
  • Quinoa Power Bowl: Swap sweet potatoes with quinoa for a gluten-free, protein-rich alternative that maintains the chili's hearty texture.
  • Slow Cooker Comfort: Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off, tender meal with deep, melded flavors.
  • Vegan Green Chili Fusion: Use green chili peppers instead of red bell peppers, and add roasted green chilies for a southwestern-style variation with bright, tangy notes.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

  • Cozy Game Night Centerpiece: Serve this hearty chili as a show-stopping main dish during board game evenings, letting friends share and enjoy spoonfuls between strategic moves.
  • Lunch Prep Champion: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for a nutritious, warming lunch at work or school, keeping the chili fresh and delicious until mealtime.
  • Tex-Mex Taco Bar Companion: Transform the chili into a taco filling by slightly thickening the sauce, offering a delectable protein option for a build-your-own taco station with tortillas and toppings.
  • Rustic Comfort Bowl: Create a satisfying one-bowl meal by ladling the chili over warm brown rice or quinoa, garnishing with fresh herbs and a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Storage Tips for Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

  • Refrigerate leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it cools completely before sealing.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags for maximum 3 months, leaving slight space for expansion.
  • Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
  • Reheat on stovetop by warming over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding splash of vegetable broth to prevent sticking, until heated thoroughly to 165°F.

FAQs

  • How nutritious is this sweet potato black bean chili?

This chili is packed with nutrients, offering a balanced meal with sweet potatoes providing vitamin A, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, while black beans contribute protein, iron, and additional fiber.

  • Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this sweet potato black bean chili is completely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting any dairy-based toppings.

  • Can I make this chili spicier or milder?

Absolutely! You can adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder, or adding hot sauce for extra spiciness. For a milder version, reduce the spices or use mild chili powder.

Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili Highlights

  • Boost Nutritional Power: Packed with protein-rich black beans and vitamin-loaded sweet potatoes, this chili delivers a super-charged meal that nourishes your body with essential nutrients.
  • Simplify Cooking Process: Requires minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, making it perfect for novice cooks or busy individuals wanting a hearty, satisfying meal without complicated techniques.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows quick variations by adding different toppings like sour cream, cheese, or fresh herbs, transforming the dish to suit personal taste preferences or dietary needs.
  • Plant-Powered Comfort: Offers a delicious vegetarian option that doesn't compromise on flavor, proving healthy meals can be incredibly tasty and filling for the whole family.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

Main Ingredients:
  • Sweet Potatoes: Hearty root vegetables that add a creamy texture and natural sweetness to the chili.
  • Black Beans: Protein-packed legumes that provide a rich, earthy flavor and substantial texture.
  • Vegetable Broth: The liquid base that helps cook the ingredients and creates a flavorful foundation for the chili.
Aromatics and Vegetables:
  • Onion, Garlic: Classic flavor builders that create a deep, savory base for the chili.
  • Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet and mild pepper flavor with a vibrant color to the dish.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika: Spice blend that provides warmth, depth, and a smoky undertone to the chili.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall flavor profile.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Diced Tomatoes: Provide acidity and moisture to the chili, creating a rich sauce.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and helping to develop initial flavors.
Optional Garnishes:
  • Avocado, Cilantro, Lime Wedges: Fresh toppings that add brightness, creaminess, and extra flavor to the finished chili.

How to Make Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

Step 1: Prep The Aromatics

Warm olive oil in a spacious pot over medium heat. Toss in chopped onion and minced garlic, dancing them around until they soften and release their delicious fragrance.

Step 2: Add Vibrant Vegetables

Drop in the red bell pepper and let it mingle with the onions, cooking for 3-4 minutes until it becomes tender and slightly relaxed.

Step 3: Awaken The Spices

Sprinkle in these flavor boosters:
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Smoked paprika

Stir and cook for a quick minute, allowing the spices to wake up and become incredibly aromatic.

Step 4: Build The Chili Base

Add these hearty ingredients to the pot:
  • Diced sweet potatoes
  • Black beans
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Vegetable broth

Give everything a good stir, ensuring all ingredients get acquainted.

Step 5: Slow Simmer To Perfection

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat.

Let the chili simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, allowing sweet potatoes to become perfectly tender.

Step 6: Final Flavor Boost

Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Serve piping hot.

Tips for Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

  • Opt for organic sweet potatoes to enhance the overall flavor and nutritional value of the chili.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder for personal heat preference.
  • Boost protein content by adding quinoa or additional beans during simmering.
  • Create a creamy texture by mashing some sweet potato pieces while cooking to thicken the chili.
  • Prep ingredients beforehand to reduce cooking time and make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Hearty Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili Recipe

Hearty Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili Recipe


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4.8 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty sweet potato black bean chili brings warmth and comfort to winter dinner tables. Mexican-inspired flavors merge perfectly with nutritious ingredients, creating a satisfying meal you can savor with friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans
  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) vegetable broth

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 red bell pepper

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Toppings:

  • Avocado
  • Cilantro
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a spacious pot over medium temperature, gently sautéing onions and garlic until they become translucent and aromatic.
  2. Incorporate red bell peppers, allowing them to soften and develop a slight caramelization for enhanced flavor depth.
  3. Sprinkle in spices – chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika – toasting them briefly to release their intense, complex essence.
  4. Introduce diced sweet potatoes, black beans, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth, stirring thoroughly to create a harmonious blend of ingredients.
  5. Elevate the temperature to trigger a robust boil, then immediately reduce heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the chili to develop rich flavors for approximately 25-30 minutes.
  6. Gently adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring a balanced taste profile.
  7. Ladle the steaming chili into serving bowls, garnishing with fresh avocado slices, vibrant cilantro, or zesty lime wedges to add brightness and contrast.

Notes

  • Boost the protein content by adding quinoa or extra beans for a more filling meal.
  • Transform this recipe into a vegan-friendly dish by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based and skip any dairy toppings.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder and cumin to match personal heat preferences.
  • Create a meal prep version by storing the chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, which enhances the flavor as the spices meld together.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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