Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils

Name: Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils, rinsed; 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Recipes

When it's chilly outside, I love coming home to the warm aroma of Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils wafting through my kitchen. This recipe combines the earthiness of lentils with the sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a wholesome and hearty meal that's perfect for any day of the week. Using my trusty crockpot, I can let the ingredients meld together effortlessly while I go about my day. It's not just a recipe; it's a comforting hug in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul.

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:42:37.271Z

During my culinary adventures, I discovered the joy of cooking lentils in a crockpot, allowing them to absorb flavors slowly and develop a rich taste. The addition of sweet potatoes not only enhances the dish's sweetness but also provides a burst of vitamins and minerals. I made sure to season it well with spices, making every bite a delightful experience.

I also found that letting the lentils simmer for several hours enables them to achieve that perfect tenderness. It's a great reminder that sometimes, the best meals come from letting time do the work for you. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, giving me more time to relax!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nourishing blend of lentils and sweet potatoes for a wholesome meal
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup thanks to the crockpot
Perfectly spiced to delight your taste buds with every bite

Understanding Lentils and Sweet Potatoes

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrients, providing protein, fiber, and essential minerals. In this recipe, they not only serve as the backbone of the dish but also absorb the wonderful flavors from the spices and sweet potatoes, creating a luscious, hearty base. Choosing the right variety of lentils—like green or brown—can affect the cooking texture; green lentils hold their shape better, while brown lentils become softer, which is ideal for this dish.

Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish. They're rich in vitamins and have a creamy texture once cooked, which helps meld with the lentils. Make sure to cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking; chunks that are too large may remain firm while others become mushy. If you prefer, you can substitute the sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a similar flavor profile.

Perfecting Cooking Time and Temperature

Cooking times in the crockpot can vary based on the model and the size of the ingredients. For a more intense flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot, allowing them to release their natural sweetness. When setting your crockpot, I recommend using the low setting for a longer, more tender cook. If you’re in a hurry, you can opt for the high setting, ensuring not to exceed four hours to prevent overcooking.

One common issue with lentils is that some varieties can turn mushy if cooked too long. Checking the dish during the final hour on high or the last two hours on low can help you gauge the perfect doneness. The sweet potatoes should be tender enough to easily pierce with a fork, while the lentils should still have texture, contributing to the overall heartiness of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

1 cup lentils, rinsed
2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you'll be set to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious meal:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes for even cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Combine in the Crockpot

Add the rinsed lentils, diced sweet potatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.

Season the Mixture

Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir again to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Cook the Lentils

Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a nourishing meal on its own or with a side salad.

Enjoy your Healthy Crockpot Sweet Potato Lentils!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing this dish in advance is not only convenient but allows the flavors to deepen. You can assemble all the ingredients in the crockpot and refrigerate it overnight before cooking it the next day. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors will continue to meld in storage, making each reheated serving even tastier than the last.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Let the lentils cool completely before transferring them into freezer-safe containers, where they can stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This crockpot sweet potato lentil dish is versatile and can be served as a main course or a side. To enhance the nutritional profile, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added texture and protein. Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to the earthy lentils.

Feel free to customize the spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of turmeric can enhance the dish’s complexity. If you're looking to add some greens, stir in some spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a colorful and nutritious boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or whole grain bread.