Healthy Crockpot Bean Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Bean Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight; 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight; 1 cup chopped carrots; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Bean Stew because it’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients. With just a few minutes of chopping and a few hours of slow cooking, I have a hearty and satisfying meal ready to go. The best part is that I can use whatever beans and vegetables I have on hand, making it a versatile option for any weeknight dinner. Plus, the flavors deepen beautifully as it simmers, creating a warm dish that the whole family enjoys.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:04:14.724Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Bean Stew, I was amazed at how simple it was to create a flavorful and nutritious dish. By using a variety of beans and fresh vegetables, not only do I achieve a lovely texture, but I also get a rainbow of nutrients. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the taste in a way that cooking on the stovetop can't match.

One unexpected tip I learned is to let the stew cool and refrigerate it overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to develop even further, making the next day's leftovers an even more delicious experience. The joy of coming home to a warm, ready-to-eat meal is simply unbeatable!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and full of fiber-rich ingredients
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd
Rich, comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out

      

Understanding the Beans

Beans are the star ingredient in this stew, providing a rich source of protein and fiber. Soaking the kidney and black beans overnight not only hydrates them, but also helps to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. If you're short on time, you could opt for canned beans, but the texture and flavor achieved with dried beans after slow cooking are truly unparalleled.

Each type of bean contributes unique flavors and textures to the stew. Kidney beans add a robust and hearty quality, while black beans offer a smoother, creamier texture. You can experiment with other beans like pinto or navy beans for variety, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, requiring adjustments to the overall stew cooking time.

Flavor Enhancement Through Cooking

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich, comforting dish that develops depth over time. Unlike quicker cooking methods, the prolonged exposure to heat allows the beans to absorb the spices and the natural sweetness from the tomatoes and vegetables. Aim for a low setting on your crockpot, as high heat can lead to uneven cooking.

When the stew is cooked for 6-8 hours, you should notice the beans becoming tender and the vegetables softening, contributing to a cohesive texture. If you find that the stew appears too watery as it cooks, you can remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate, thickening the stew without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight
1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to vary the beans and vegetables based on your preferences or what you have available!

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Rinse and drain the soaked beans. Chop all vegetables and set aside.

Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the beans, chopped vegetables, tomatoes, garlic, and spices. Pour in the vegetable broth.

Cook the Stew

Set the crockpot on low and cook for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.

Enjoy your hearty stew with fresh bread or over rice!

Pro Tips

Consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving for a brightness that really elevates the dish.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Bean Stew is an excellent meal prep option. Once cooled, it can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to three months, allowing for quick meals later on. Just be sure to leave some space in the container, as the stew may expand when frozen.

When reheating, whether from the fridge or freezer, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes, depending on the portion size. The slow reheating process helps the flavors remain rich and delicious, just like when it was freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is beautifully versatile when it comes to serving options. It's great on its own but can be enhanced with toppings such as diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and freshness. Serving it alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice can transform it into a heartier meal.

For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce at the end of cooking. You can even serve it with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a more Tex-Mex inspired meal. This recipe's adaptability makes it a fun dish to experiment with, allowing you to cater to personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans; just add them in the last hour of cooking.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or even quinoa for a complete meal.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.