Healthy Crockpot Tomato White Bean Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Food

I love coming home to the aroma of a hearty stew waiting for me after a long day. This Healthy Crockpot Tomato White Bean Stew is not only comforting but also brimming with nutrients. The combination of tomatoes and white beans creates a rich and satisfying dish that feels indulgent without the guilt. It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner with family. Plus, using a crockpot makes it so easy to prepare—just toss everything in, and let the magic happen!

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:12:37.133Z

One Saturday afternoon, I set out to create a stew that would not only warm my soul but also be packed with healthy ingredients. I decided on a blend of juicy tomatoes, hearty white beans, and a medley of spices. The result? A savory, comforting stew that has since become one of my go-to recipes for chilly days. I love that it’s all made in the crockpot—it requires minimal effort and rewards you with maximum flavor.

While experimenting, I discovered that letting the stew cook for a longer time enhances the depth of the flavors. The beans become perfectly tender, and the spices meld beautifully together, creating a dish that’s great for leftovers. Adding fresh basil just before serving elevates the flavors even more, making it a delightful meal everyone will appreciate.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich tomato flavor complemented by creamy white beans
Super easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfectly filling and healthy for any occasion

      

Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of crushed tomatoes and white beans forms the backbone of this stew, delivering a depth of flavor that's both hearty and satisfying. The crushed tomatoes provide a natural sweetness and acidity, which balances perfectly with the creamy texture of the white beans. I prefer using cannellini beans for their smooth consistency, but you can also use great northern beans if you have them on hand. This switch can add a slightly different texture and flavor profile, but both options work wonderfully in this recipe.

In addition to the main ingredients, the aromatics—onion, garlic, celery, and carrots—are essential for building flavor. As they cook slowly in the crockpot, these vegetables release their natural sweetness and deepen the overall taste of the stew. Ensure that the onion is diced finely enough to meld into the dish, and sautéing the carrots and celery briefly before adding them can enhance their flavors. If you're looking to spice it up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Cooking Techniques

Using a crockpot is a game-changer for this stew, allowing for a hands-off cooking approach that results in tender vegetables and rich flavors. Set your crockpot to low for about 8 hours, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if you're short on time, the high setting for 4 hours can still produce great results; just check the stew periodically. When finished, the vegetables should be tender yet not mushy, contributing to a satisfying texture without losing their identity.

After the cooking time, I recommend tasting the stew for seasoning—adding extra salt or herbs can make all the difference. If you prefer a thicker consistency, consider pureeing a portion of the stew with an immersion blender and then mixing it back in. This technique retains the rustic feel of the stew while thickening it up beautifully, making it even more comforting, especially on chilly days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious stew.

Ingredients

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to make a nutritious meal that everyone will love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Set aside.

Combine in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, layer the crushed tomatoes, white beans, prepared vegetables, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Set to Cook

Cover and set your crockpot on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, depending on your schedule.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy this warm and nutritious stew with your favorite bread or on its own!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving. You can easily customize this stew by including your favorite vegetables or adding some spicy sausage for a kick.

Storage and Freezing

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato White Bean Stew is ideal for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If you anticipate not finishing it within that time frame, consider freezing portions. It freezes well for up to 3 months, ensuring you always have a comforting meal at the ready.

When reheating frozen stew, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before warming it on the stove. If you're short on time, you can defrost it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every few minutes for even heating. You might want to add a splash of vegetable broth when reheating to loosen the consistency, as freezing may thicken the stew slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stew with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. Toasted baguette slices work wonderfully for dipping, allowing you to soak up the savory broth. You could also sprinkle some shaved Parmesan cheese on top for a decadent finish, adding a salty and nutty flavor that complements the richness of the stew.

For a lighter option, consider a side of steamed greens or a fresh vegetable salad dressed with lemon juice. The brightness of the lemon will cut through the stew's richness, providing a delightful contrast. Additionally, if you want to elevate the dish, serving it with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil can introduce a creamy element that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe! Just adjust cooking time if needed.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

→ Is this stew vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or over cooked grains like rice or quinoa.