Most chili recipes rely on cans of tomatoes and seasoned ground meat. But what if you could transform a humble sweet potato into the star of your slow cooker without much fuss? This recipe dives into an unexpected flavor twist by adding roasted garlic and a pinch of cinnamon, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
There’s something enchanting about waking up to a savory-sweet scent that hints at cozy layers of spices. As the chili slowly cooks, the sweet potatoes break down just enough, turning silky and caramelized. It’s a simple dish, but with a secret ingredient that elevates it beyond everyday dinner.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- I love that it’s a one-pot wonder, minimizing cleanup after a busy day.
- The slow cooker makes the sweet potatoes taste even sweeter as they stew with spices.
- It’s a nostalgic twist on classic chili, reminding me of childhood comfort foods.
- The versatility lets me add in whatever veggies or beans I have—no waste here.
- Overall, it’s a cozy, nourishing bowl perfect for chilly evenings.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to stir? The sweet potatoes sank and stuck at the bottom, but I added a splash of broth and stirred gently.
- DUMPED in too much chili powder? It turned fiery—dilute with more sweet potatoes and a splash of water.
- OVER‑TORCHED the onions? They burned and turned bitter; I rescued with a splash of vinegar.
- WAS distracted and left it too long? The sweet potatoes overcooked—simply scoop out before it turns to mush.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When too bland, add a squeezed lime or splash of apple cider vinegar—brightens everything.
- Splash in a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for depth when flavor is flat.
- Patch overly spicy chili with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Shield from burning by lowering heat and adding a bit of water or broth.
- When in doubt, stir in a spoonful of tomato paste for richness—your kitchen will smell amazing.
As autumn cools the air outside, this slow cooker chili warms the soul inside. The gentle aroma of spices and sweet potatoes cooking all day makes every spoonful worth waiting for. It’s the kind of dish you’ll crave when you need comfort without the fuss.
And really, it’s a reminder that simple ingredients, love, and a bit of patience create something truly satisfying. Sometimes, slow cooking whispers the best secrets—like how a little cinnamon can turn a humble bowl into something extraordinary.
Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Chili with Cinnamon and Roasted Garlic
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes peeled and chopped into chunks
- 4 cloves garlic cloves roasted until fragrant and golden
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz., with juice
- 1 cup vegetable broth can substitute with chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for roasting garlic and sautéing
- 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 cup chopped vegetables bell peppers or onions optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap whole garlic cloves in foil with a little olive oil and roast for about 20-25 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- While the garlic roasts, peel and chop the sweet potatoes into bite-sized chunks, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- In your slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, chopped vegetables (if using), cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to mix the spices into the liquid base.
- Once the garlic is cooled slightly, squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins and mash them with a fork. Add the roasted garlic paste into the slow cooker, stirring to incorporate the warm, aromatic flavor.
- Add the chopped sweet potatoes into the slow cooker, submerging them slightly into the liquid. Cover with the lid and set on low for 6 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are very tender and starting to break apart.
- During cooking, the sweet potatoes will soften and release their natural sweetness, blending into the broth and thickening the chili. The aroma will deepen with the spices and roasted garlic.
- Once cooking is complete, use a spoon or masher to gently stir and mash some of the sweet potato chunks to achieve a thicker, creamier consistency if desired. Serve hot, atop rice or with crusty bread.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe isn’t just about the flavors—it’s about creating a moment of pause in a busy week. The slow cooker does most of the work, letting you focus on the little joys—like the smell of roasting sweet potatoes or the comfort of a warm bowl.
In times when we seek nourishing meals that whisper calm and familiarity, this chili stands out. It’s a humble dish that proves sometimes the best meals only require a few good ingredients and patience. Enjoy the simple pleasure of knowing dinner was made with care, and let that aroma fill your home.
