So you want chili, but you’re not about that “babysitting a pot on the stove for three hours” life? Same. That’s where crockpot turkey and sweet potato chili swoops in like a culinary superhero. You literally throw everything into your slow cooker, press a button, and walk away. By the time you remember it exists, boom—you’ve got a hearty, cozy, slightly spicy bowl of happiness waiting for you. Lazy cooking at its finest.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Here’s the deal: this chili is filling but not heavy. The ground turkey keeps it lean, while sweet potatoes make it hearty without being greasy. And let’s not forget the beans—they’re basically little protein powerhouses swimming in a flavorful broth.
The best part? You can’t really mess this up. Seriously. Unless you forget to plug in your crockpot (don’t laugh, it happens), you’re going to end up with something delicious. It’s also perfect for meal prep, football Sundays, or those “ugh, I don’t feel like cooking but still want real food” days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (lean, but not cardboard-dry)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (your chili’s sweet, chunky besties)
- 1 large onion, diced (yes, it’s worth the tears)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (more if you’re avoiding vampires or coworkers)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (because chili deserves color)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 cups chicken broth (or veggie broth if you’re feeling plant-y)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder (don’t skimp, this is the star)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (makes you look fancy)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (sounds weird, but trust me, it’s magic)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Yes, it’s one extra step, but it keeps your chili from tasting like sad boiled meat. Drain the fat if needed.
- Dump the cooked turkey into your slow cooker like the champion you are.
- Add sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, beans, tomatoes, broth, and all those glorious spices. Stir it just enough so it looks like you tried.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Translation: set it and forget it.
- When it’s ready, give it a taste test. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if your taste buds demand it.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings. Extra cheese is not “optional,” it’s mandatory.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to brown the turkey. Don’t skip it unless you want bland chili.
- Adding too much broth. Remember, chili is thick, not soup with an identity crisis.
- Overcooking the sweet potatoes. They should be tender, not disintegrating into mush.
- Going spice-wild without tasting. Nobody wants accidental fire-breathing chili.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- No turkey? Use ground chicken, beef, or even pork. Heck, tofu crumbles could work if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Not into beans? Skip them or swap with lentils. Just don’t come at me saying it’s still chili—it’s stew at that point.
- Sweet potato hater? White potatoes work fine, or even butternut squash for a slightly sweeter vibe.
- Spicy soul? Add jalapeños or hot sauce until your sinuses clear out.
- Vegetarian version? Ditch the meat, double the beans, and use veggie broth. Boom—still hearty.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I freeze this chili?
Oh yes. Chili is one of those dishes that actually tastes better after freezing and reheating. Store in containers, defrost overnight, and reheat like a boss.
Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?
Nope. If you like the skin, keep it on. Less work, more fiber. Win-win.
Can I make this on the stove instead?
Totally. Just simmer everything in a big pot for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
What if my chili is too thick?
Add a splash of broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
What if it’s too spicy?
Stir in some sour cream or a little extra broth to tone things down. And maybe keep a glass of milk handy.
Is this kid-friendly?
If your kids are spice-sensitive, cut back on the chili powder and paprika. Then bribe them with tortilla chips on the side.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot turkey and sweet potato chili is basically the lovechild of comfort food and convenience. It’s hearty, flavorful, and so simple you’ll feel like a genius for “cooking” it. Plus, it makes your house smell amazing all day, which is half the fun.
So grab your slow cooker, toss in your ingredients, and let the magic happen. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy a bowl of chili that’s as easy as it is delicious. Now go ahead—make enough to freeze because future-you is going to be so grateful.