BuzzFeed Vegan Crockpot Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Vegan cooking has never been easier or more delicious, especially when you have a trusty crockpot to do the heavy lifting. BuzzFeed’s vegan crockpot recipes offer a fantastic way to prepare wholesome, plant-based meals that are not only packed with flavor but also incredibly convenient for busy lifestyles.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring meatless options, these slow cooker recipes bring together hearty vegetables, rich spices, and satisfying protein alternatives to create meals that comfort and delight.

From creamy stews to vibrant curries and robust chili, the slow cooker is your best friend for developing deep, complex flavors while freeing up your time. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top BuzzFeed vegan crockpot recipes that are easy to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for any season.

Let’s dive into these recipes that bring warmth and satisfaction to your table with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the biggest perks of these vegan crockpot recipes is their simplicity and versatility. You can toss all your ingredients into the crockpot in the morning, walk away, and come back to a beautiful, ready-to-eat meal.

The slow cooker enhances the flavors by allowing them to meld together slowly, resulting in rich, hearty dishes that feel indulgent yet healthy.

Additionally, these recipes focus on wholesome, plant-based ingredients that are great for digestion and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a cozy dinner idea, these vegan crockpot meals check all the boxes.

Plus, they’re budget-friendly and perfect for feeding families or guests with different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried black beans (soaked overnight)
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chopped kale (optional, added near the end)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Crockpot or slow cooker (at least 4-quart capacity)
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Can opener
  • Serving bowls

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beans: If you haven’t soaked your dried black beans overnight, give them a quick rinse and soak for at least 1 hour in warm water. Drain and set aside.
  2. Layer the vegetables: Add the diced sweet potato, red bell pepper, and onion into the crockpot. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the top.
  3. Add the beans and tomatoes: Pour the soaked black beans and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) over the vegetables.
  4. Season the mixture: Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to distribute the spices without disturbing the layering too much.
  5. Pour in the broth: Carefully add the vegetable broth to the crockpot. The liquid should just cover the ingredients; if not, add a little more broth or water.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The beans should be tender, and the sweet potato soft.
  7. Prepare the kale (optional): About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale. Replace the lid and allow it to wilt inside the hot crockpot.
  8. Finish and serve: Stir in the olive oil and fresh lime juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Garnish: Serve hot with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top. You can also add avocado slices or vegan sour cream for extra creaminess.

Tips & Variations

Feel free to swap black beans with kidney beans or chickpeas depending on your preference. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added texture and nutrition.

To make this recipe spicier, add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices. For a creamier texture, stir in some coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Don’t forget to soak your beans overnight if you have time; it reduces cooking time and improves digestibility. If you’re short on time, canned beans can also be used—just reduce the cooking time to 3-4 hours on low or 2 hours on high.

For a protein boost, toss in some cooked quinoa or serve the stew over brown rice or your favorite grain.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320
Protein 15g
Fat 5g
Carbohydrates 55g
Fiber 14g
Sodium 480mg
Vitamin A 120%
Vitamin C 75%

Serving Suggestions

This hearty vegan crockpot stew pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a side of fluffy rice. For a fresh contrast, serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette.

You can also spoon this stew over baked potatoes or enjoy it topped with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory boost.

For an extra touch of comfort, try pairing it with these delightful vegan side dishes like Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or a light Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes platter to start your meal.

Conclusion

BuzzFeed’s vegan crockpot recipes take the hassle out of plant-based cooking while delivering meals that satisfy cravings and nourish the body. These recipes are perfect for anyone looking to embrace veganism or simply add more wholesome, vegetable-forward meals to their repertoire.

With just a few simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you can create flavorful, nutrient-dense dishes that everyone will love.

Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or seeking a cozy dinner idea, these recipes provide flexibility, health benefits, and fantastic taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies and spices to make these crockpot meals your own.

For more delicious ideas, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or explore comforting recipes like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for non-vegan options. Embrace slow cooking and enjoy the magic of vegan crockpot recipes!

📖 Recipe Card: BuzzFeed Vegan Crockpot Chili

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan chili perfect for slow cooking. Packed with beans, vegetables, and spices for a comforting meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT6H
Total Time: PT6H15M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse soaked beans.
  2. Add beans, onion, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste to crockpot.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
  5. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 2 g | Carbs: 55 g

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Marta K

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