Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili Recipe (Ready in 45 Minutes)

Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili Recipe That Actually Satisfies

Nothing beats a bowl of hearty chili when you need comfort food that’s both nourishing and delicious. This sweet potato and black bean chili delivers all the warmth and satisfaction you crave while packing your bowl with plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances perfectly with smoky spices and protein-rich black beans, creating a meal that’s filling enough for dinner yet light enough to energize your afternoon.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving something wholesome, this recipe fits seamlessly into your routine. Ready in under 45 minutes (or even faster with the right kitchen tools), it’s designed for real life—no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients required.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Chili

For the base:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
• 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the flavor:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Each ingredient serves a specific purpose in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and creamy texture when they break down slightly during cooking. Black beans offer plant-based protein and fiber that keeps you satisfied for hours. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika creates depth without overwhelming heat, while the bell pepper adds fresh crunch and color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Prep your ingredients (10 minutes):
Dice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch cubes for even cooking. Smaller pieces will break down too much, while larger chunks won’t cook through properly. Dice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic fresh for the best flavor.

Build the flavor base (8 minutes):
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn.

Add spices and develop flavor (2 minutes):
Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and release their oils. This step intensifies the flavor significantly.

Combine and simmer (25 minutes):
Add diced sweet potatoes, drained black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sweet potatoes should be tender and some pieces will break down to naturally thicken the chili.

Final seasoning:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of brown sugar if you prefer additional sweetness.

Amazon Product Recommendations for Better Results

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker – This game-changing appliance reduces cooking time to just 15 minutes under pressure, plus natural release time. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want homemade chili without the wait. The sauté function lets you build flavors right in the pot, and the keep-warm feature means your chili stays perfect for hours.

Simply Organic Chili Powder – Quality spices make all the difference in chili. This organic chili powder blend provides complex, balanced heat without artificial additives. One container lasts for multiple batches and maintains its potency much longer than grocery store alternatives.

Sweese Porcelain Bowls Set – These wide, shallow bowls are perfect for serving chili with toppings. The neutral design complements any table setting, and they’re microwave and dishwasher safe for easy reheating and cleanup. The 18-ounce capacity is ideal for generous portions.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving

This recipe serves 6 generous portions, with each serving containing approximately:

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 14g
• Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Iron: 15% DV
• Vitamin A: 184% DV
• Vitamin C: 45% DV

The high fiber content supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Sweet potatoes provide beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A for immune function and eye health. Black beans contribute folate, magnesium, and plant-based protein that rivals many meat-based dishes.

Creative Variations to Keep Things Interesting

• Tex-Mex style: Add 1 cup frozen corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
• Mediterranean twist: Replace cumin with dried basil and add ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh herbs.
• Smoky heat: Double the smoked paprika and add 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced. This creates deep, smoky heat that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes.
• Protein boost: Stir in cooked quinoa, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein during the last 5 minutes for extra substance.
• Autumn spice: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for a warming, seasonal flavor that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely. This chili actually improves in flavor after sitting overnight. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. The sweet potatoes may break down slightly upon reheating, which naturally thickens the chili.

What if my chili is too thick or too thin?
If it’s too thick, add vegetable broth or water ¼ cup at a time until you reach your preferred consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Can I use different types of beans?
Yes! Kidney beans, pinto beans, or navy beans work well. You can also use a combination of different beans for varied texture and flavor.

Make This Your New Go-To Comfort Food

Sweet potato and black bean chili proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This recipe delivers comfort food satisfaction while nourishing your body with wholesome, plant-based ingredients. The natural sweetness, smoky spices, and hearty texture create a bowl of pure comfort that works equally well for meal prep, family dinners, or entertaining friends.

Start with this base recipe, then experiment with the variations to make it uniquely yours. Your kitchen will smell incredible, your body will feel nourished, and you’ll have discovered a new favorite that’s both delicious and dependable.

 

 

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