So, you want something cozy and spicy but also kind of healthy? Enter sweet potato chili soup. It’s warm, hearty, and a little sassy—just like you on a cold night. This soup has all the vibes of chili (beans, spices, that stick-to-your-ribs factor) but with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes to balance things out. Basically, it’s comfort food with a personality.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
First, it’s super filling without being a gut bomb. You get the fiber, the protein, and the warmth—all in one bowl.
Second, it’s budget-friendly. Sweet potatoes and beans are cheap, and everything else is probably already in your pantry.
Third, it’s meal prep gold. This soup tastes even better the next day, which makes it the kind of recipe that works hard for you.
And finally, it’s foolproof. If you can stir things in a pot and not set off your smoke alarm, you’ve got this.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or that “fancy” avocado oil you bought once)
- 1 large onion, diced (aka the tearjerker)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (your best friend in the flavor department)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (the star of the show)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (for color and crunch)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (the protein sidekick)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (because chili needs at least two types of beans)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (liquid gold for soups)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you’re cool with it)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for that rich, deep flavor)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder (or more if you’re feeling bold)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (adds that smoky kick)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional but highly recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste (season like you mean it)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (so it looks Instagram-ready)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oil in a big soup pot. Toss in your onion and bell pepper, and sauté until they look softened and friendly.
- Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir for about 30 seconds so your kitchen smells like heaven (or at least a taco truck).
- Throw in the diced sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste. Give everything a good stir.
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 25–30 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender and cozy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if your taste buds demand it.
- Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with cilantro or green onions, and serve. Bonus points if you have crusty bread or tortilla chips to dip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercooking the sweet potatoes. Crunchy sweet potatoes in soup? Not fun. Let them get soft and creamy.
- Skipping the spices. Without chili powder and cumin, you basically just have bean and potato soup.
- Over-salting too early. The flavors deepen as it cooks—taste before you dump in more salt.
- Forgetting to rinse the beans. Unless you like your soup with a side of weird bean sludge.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- Hate kidney beans? Swap them for chickpeas or pinto beans. Nobody’s judging.
- Want it meaty? Add ground turkey, beef, or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
- Prefer more heat? Toss in a diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce.
- Vegan all the way? Stick with veggie broth and garnish with avocado instead of sour cream.
- No sweet potatoes? Use butternut squash—it’s a solid understudy.
FAQ
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! It freezes like a champ. Just cool it first and store in containers. Thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Nope. If you like the skins, keep them on for extra fiber. But if you want a smoother vibe, peel away.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Totally. Dump everything in, cook on low for 6–7 hours, and walk away like a boss.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Technically yes, but fresh ones taste better and won’t turn to mush.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild with a kick. Add extra chili powder or hot sauce if you like to live dangerously.
What toppings go best with it?
Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, tortilla chips—basically anything that makes your bowl Instagram-worthy.
Can I skip the tomato paste?
You could, but it adds depth and richness. Without it, the soup tastes a little flat.
Final Thoughts
Sweet potato chili soup is that rare combo of cozy, hearty, and healthy without trying too hard. It’s the perfect dinner for when you want comfort food but don’t want to undo your entire week of “being good.” Plus, it’s cheap, easy, and makes enough leftovers to feed your future self.
So go ahead—grab a pot, toss in these humble ingredients, and make yourself a bowl of soup that tastes like a hug. And if you don’t tell anyone how easy it was, they’ll probably assume you’re some kind of culinary wizard. Your secret’s safe with me.