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: 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Recipes

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato White Bean Stew on busy weekdays when I need a nutritious meal without the fuss. The combination of tomatoes, white beans, and aromatic spices creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. By letting everything simmer together in the crockpot, the flavors deepen beautifully. Plus, it's packed with protein and fiber, making it a hearty choice for anyone looking to eat healthy. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you've got yourself a meal that everyone will enjoy!

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:07:35.694Z

When I first decided to try a crockpot stew, I was amazed by how effortless it was to prepare. Just toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and walk away! The slow cooking allows all the herbs and spices to meld into a soothing symphony of flavors, which is one of the aspects I enjoy most about this dish.

One of my favorite tricks is to add a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving. It really heightens the flavors and adds a lovely tang to the stew. I remember the first time I served this to my family—everyone couldn’t believe how rich and satisfying it turned out to be, and it quickly became a staple in our home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for meal prep
Nutritious ingredients that support a healthy lifestyle
Versatile: excellent as a main dish or side

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Healthy Crockpot Tomato White Bean Stew lies in its simple yet nutritious ingredients. White beans serve not only as a source of protein, but they also add a creamy texture that complements the acidity of diced tomatoes. When choosing canned beans, look for those without added sugars or preservatives to keep your dish as healthy as possible. Rinsing the beans will also help to remove excess sodium that can be present in canning liquid.

Fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery add depth and flavor to the stew. Sautéing the onions in a pan for just a few minutes before adding them to the crockpot can enhance their sweetness and create a wonderful aromatic base. Consider using heirloom tomatoes if you have them on hand; they add a richer, more complex flavor to the overall dish.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

Cooking the stew on low heat for eight hours allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together. If you're short on time, cooking on high for four hours will still yield a delicious result. Just keep an eye on the consistency of the stew; if it gets too thick, you can add an extra splash of vegetable broth during the cooking process. Stirring halfway through can also help ensure an even cook.

Feel free to customize the herbs based on what you have available. For instance, adding a bay leaf while the stew cooks can offer a subtle depth of flavor. Additionally, if you're looking for a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a nice heat that contrasts with the dish's sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious stew!

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stew!

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large crockpot, combine the drained white beans, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, and vegetable broth.

Season the Stew

Add dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the mixture, stirring everything well to combine.

Cook the Stew

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve

Once finished, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your hearty and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add additional vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Also, for a slightly smoky flavor, toss in some smoked paprika.

Storing and Reheating

This stew is an excellent make-ahead meal, as its flavors intensify over time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze individual portions for quick meals later; just be sure to let the stew cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags to avoid freezer burn.

When reheating, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat. If it's too thick after cooling, simply stir in a little vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Microwaving in short intervals (about 1-2 minutes) is a great option for single servings, but make sure to stir in between to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

For a wholesome meal, serve this stew alongside crusty whole-grain bread; the bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. A salad with mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette can complement the stew beautifully, balancing its hearty flavors with freshness.

If you want to elevate the presentation, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aromatic profile, making each serving visually appealing and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, if using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I serve with the stew?

This stew is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for vegans and vegetarians.