Last Updated on June 13, 2022 by Lori Geurin
When the weather turns cooler many of us crave bowls of chili or a hearty soup, right up there with pumpkin spice lattes. For years, I’ve enjoyed eating chili served over sweet potatoes and then I saw a sweet potato chili recipe and had to try it. There’s just something about this tasty combo that’s so satisfying.
After looking at several recipes online, I decided to create my own. In my usual fashion I threw in ingredients as I went and did lots of taste testing (my favorite part).
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I have to say, it turned out even better than I anticipated. (Guess I should have raised my expectations.) My husband, David, and teenage daughter loved it too. She even took some to school yesterday to heat up for her lunch.
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Recipe for Sweet Potato Chili
This is the perfect recipe if you’re running short on time but want to make something delicious and comforting. Sometimes the simple pleasures in life are some of the best. Enjoying a warm bowl of chili after a long day can bring a smile to your face and make your heart happy.
Best of all, it’s quick and easy to prep. You simply chop a few ingredients, throw them in a pot, and let the flavors simmer while you catch up with your family or listen to some relaxing music for a bit. Sound good? Plus, it tastes amazing reheated too. You could also make this in your Crockpot or Instant Pot.
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Is This Chili Paleo-Friendly?
That depends on how you make it. If you leave the beans out it’s perfectly Paleo. But I’ll leave that up to you. It’s also Whole30 compatible if you leave out the beans. Otherwise, you should be good. Some people enjoy their chili without beans but I love beans and usually include them. It’s a personal choice.
Related: Paleo Diet Quick Guide: What To Eat & Avoid
Sweet Potato Chili Topping Suggestions
This chili is full of healthy foods that are nourishing as well as comforting on a cool day. Sweet potatoes have many health benefits and are full of vitamin A, B6, and potassium.
The sweetness of the sweet potatoes gives a nice contrast to the acidity of the tomatoes and savory beef. I enjoyed mine with half a sliced avocado and fresh cilantro while David added sour cream to his. You could also use Greek yogurt for the same effect.
Just keep in mind that because sour cream and Greek yogurt are dairy products they aren’t Paleo approved. Here are some Paleo yogurt alternatives you could try instead.
Related: 20 Healthy And Easy To Make Crockpot Soup Recipes
Enjoying a warm bowl of chili after a long day can bring a smile to your face and make your heart happy.
Sweet Potato Chili Recipe
Sweet Potato Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh salsa
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15-ounce) red beans
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, roughly chopped into 1/2 inch cubes
- avocado, Greek yogurt, and fresh cilantro for serving, optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Cook ground beef, garlic, and onion until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the fat.
- Add all other ingredients to pan.
- Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook until the sweet potato is tender.
Notes
Nutrition facts do not include avocado, Greek yogurt, or cilantro.
If you cook the sweet potatoes in the microwave a few minutes before adding them to the stockpot you can cut back on the total cooking time.
If you’re following a Paleo eating plan, simply don’t add the beans.
Nutrition Facts
Sweet Potato Chili
Serves: 8 servings
| Amount Per Serving: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 375 kcal | |
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 9.9g | 13.8% | |
| Saturated Fat 3.1g | 15% | |
| Trans Fat | ||
| Cholesterol 102mg | 34% | |
| Sodium 544mg | 22.7% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 30.3g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber 9.8g | 36% | |
| Sugars 9.9g | ||
| Protein 41.1g | ||
| Vitamin A | Vitamin C | |
| Calcium | Iron 25mg | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
LoriGeurin.com | Wellness For Life
Chili With Sweet Potatoes Recipe
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Have you tried sweet potato chili? Share your thoughts below!
Looks like such a great healthy alternative to a hearty meal!!! Must try!
Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy trying it!
I’m obsessed with chili. And this is the perfect season to make it. I can’t wait to try this version!
I know what you mean. I always think of chili this time of year too. Hope you enjoy it!
Sweet potatoes in the chili!? This sounds absolutely amazing!!! Creating a shopping list now, hope to make this weekend!!
Thanks, Heather! I’m glad you think so and hope you enjoy it as much as we have.
I don’t think I’ve ever added sweet potatoes to my chili, but this looks so delicious, I think I’ll start.
Oh, I’m so happy to hear this…especially coming from a chef! Thank you! If you try it I’d love to know what you think.
I will have to try this version of chili. I normally do the typical one with meat and beans but this one intrigues me.
Same…until recently. I’ve always loved traditional chili with beef and beans. But, honestly, I’m not sure I can go back now. Let me know if you try it. Thanks!