This Paleo sweet potato chili is an easy hearty meal that fits a Paleo lifestyle or a Whole30 program.
I often tag recipes to help people find options that suit their eating preferences, even if I don’t strictly follow a single plan. This sweet potato chili happens to be both Paleo and Whole30-friendly, but it’s delicious for anyone who enjoys a warming, savory bowl.
What makes this chili Paleo and Whole30-approved is primarily the absence of beans, which are excluded on strict versions of both programs. Instead, the recipe relies on ground meat and cubed sweet potatoes to deliver a satisfying, chunky texture and hearty flavor.
Whole30 and Paleo share an emphasis on whole foods and removing grains, dairy, and legumes, but they differ in scope. Whole30 is designed as a focused 30-day reset, while Paleo is often treated as an ongoing lifestyle. Whole30 also discourages recreating desserts using natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup, whereas many Paleo followers will use those ingredients in moderation.
Even if you don’t follow either program closely, this recipe is a great choice when you want a bean-free chili or you’re simply out of beans. It’s straightforward, adaptable, and quick to prepare. 
I make this frequently because it uses pantry staples and fresh produce that are easy to keep on hand. I typically buy ground turkey, but ground beef or ground chicken work equally well. The spice blend is simple—just chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder—so it’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
I count eight core ingredients in the recipe (not including water, salt, and pepper), which keeps prep minimal and clean. It’s also highly flexible:
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken, ground beef, or ground bison.
- To make a vegan version, replace the meat with two cans of beans (for a non-Paleo version) or with a plant-based meat substitute.
For toppings, try Paleo-friendly options like sliced green onions, cubed avocado, and fresh cilantro. If you’re not avoiding dairy, shredded cheese and sour cream are great too.
I hope you get a chance to make this sweet potato chili soon. It’s comforting, balanced, and simple to customize to your preferences. 
If you make this Paleo sweet potato chili, feel free to comment or share a photo on Instagram by tagging @livbane. I’d love to see your results!
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Paleo Sweet Potato Chili
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. cooking oil (avocado or grapeseed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium sweet bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 lb. ground turkey (can substitute ground beef)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs. total), peeled and cubed
- 28 oz. can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 Tbsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Heat a medium pot over medium-low heat. Add oil, diced onion, bell pepper, and ground turkey. Stir occasionally and cook 6–8 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are softened.
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While the turkey cooks, peel the sweet potatoes and chop into roughly 1/2-inch cubes so they cook evenly.
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Add the chopped sweet potatoes, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth or water, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low and simmer gently for 25–35 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
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Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the sweet potatoes and loosened tomato mixture to thicken the chili slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve topped with green onions, cilantro, and/or avocado.
Nutrition
A Healthy Liv original recipe