Slow Cooker White Bean and Potato Stew
If you’re searching for an easy slow cooker vegetarian stew that feels cozy, filling, and effortless, this Slow Cooker White Bean and Potato Stew is the ultimate comfort recipe. Made with just six simple pantry ingredients, this hearty meat-free dinner slowly transforms into a creamy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for Lent, busy weeknights, or budget-friendly family cooking.
This healthy crockpot bean stew delivers rich flavor without heavy cream or complicated steps. The slow cooker does all the work while the potatoes become tender, the beans soak up savory herbs, and the broth naturally thickens into a warm, satisfying bowl of goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Vegetarian Stew:
6-ingredient dump-and-go recipe perfect for beginners
Budget-friendly and pantry-based comfort food
Naturally meat-free and plant-based friendly
Slow cooker method creates a creamy texture without dairy
Ideal for Lent, meal prep, or cozy winter dinners
Serve it with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a crisp green salad for a balanced, nourishing meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
3 cups peeled russet potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Add the cubed potatoes to the bottom of your slow cooker and spread them evenly for even cooking.
Place the white beans over the potatoes, then sprinkle in the chopped onion and garlic so the flavors distribute throughout the stew.
Add the dried thyme or Italian seasoning. If using low-sodium broth, add a small pinch of salt now or adjust later.
Pour vegetable broth over everything, gently pressing ingredients down so they are mostly submerged.
Cover and cook:
LOW for 6–8 hours
HIGH for 3–4 hours
until the potatoes are soft and the stew smells rich and comforting.
Use a potato masher or spoon to mash some potatoes and beans directly in the slow cooker. This thickens the broth into a creamy, hearty stew without adding dairy.
Season with salt and black pepper as desired. Ladle into bowls and serve hot with bread or roasted vegetables.
Tips, Variations & Meal Prep Ideas:
For a smoother texture, mash more of the stew for a creamy potato-style crockpot soup.
Add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas for more color and nutrients.
Stir in milk, yogurt, or shredded cheese at the end if you’re not dairy-free.
Blend 1 cup of stew and stir it back in for a thicker, chowder-like consistency.
Prep ingredients the night before for an easy morning dump-and-go slow cooker dinner.
