Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash is a cozy, satisfying meal that combines juicy, flavorful pork meatballs with creamy, naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes. The meatballs are tender and packed with herbs and spices, bringing a lovely depth of taste, while the sweet potato mash adds a smooth and comforting touch that balances everything out perfectly.
I love making this dish on a chilly evening when I want something hearty but not too heavy. The pork meatballs are easy to shape and cook quickly, and I always sneak in a bit extra seasoning to make sure they’re bursting with flavor. One tip I find handy is to add a little fresh parsley on top just before serving—it brightens up the whole plate with a pop of color and freshness.
Serving these meatballs alongside the sweet potato mash feels like the perfect balance between savory and sweet, and it’s a meal that every member of my family enjoys. It’s also great for a weeknight dinner because everything can be made in one pan and one pot, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying the food and company. I often pair it with a simple green salad to keep things fresh and light.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Pork: This is the base for juicy meatballs. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. They still hold flavor well but cook a bit faster.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs and keep them tender. You can swap with oats or crushed crackers if you don’t have breadcrumbs handy.
Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the pork. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, regular potatoes work too, though the mash won’t be quite as sweet.
Butter & Milk: These make the mash creamy and smooth. Use olive oil or a non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
Herbs & Spices: Fresh parsley and oregano give the meatballs a nice punch. I like adding a bit more garlic if I want stronger flavor.
How Can I Make Tender, Flavorful Meatballs Every Time?
The key to juicy meatballs is gentle mixing and proper cooking:
- Mix ingredients lightly to avoid dense meatballs; overworking the meat can make them tough.
- Shape meatballs evenly to cook at the same rate.
- Cook them over medium heat so they brown nicely without burning.
- Turn carefully to keep the crust intact while ensuring even cooking.
- Use a skillet with enough space to avoid overcrowding, which steams instead of browns the meatballs.
These tips help keep meatballs tender inside with a flavorful crust on the outside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling sweet potatoes quickly and evenly.
- Mixing bowl – to combine meatball ingredients gently without overworking.
- Non-stick or cast iron skillet – helps brown meatballs nicely without sticking.
- Potato masher or fork – makes smooth, creamy sweet potato mash easy.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to turn meatballs gently while cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pork for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter meatball option that stays tender.
- Add finely chopped spinach or kale into the meat mixture for extra greens and nutrients.
- Mix in some feta or goat cheese in the meatballs for a tangy, creamy twist.
- Spice it up with a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to add warmth and kick.
Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Sweet Potato Mash:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs / 700g), peeled and chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of roughly 35 minutes from start to finish. Most of the time is spent cooking the sweet potatoes and browning the meatballs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Sweet Potato Mash:
Start by placing the peeled and chopped sweet potatoes into a large pot of boiling salted water. Let them cook for 15-20 minutes until they are soft when poked with a fork. Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot or a bowl. Add the butter, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Keep this warm while you prepare the meatballs.
2. Making the Pork Meatballs:
In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix—the ingredients should just come together. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
3. Cooking the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, giving them space so they brown nicely. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they have a nice golden color and are cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and keep them warm.
4. Making the Optional Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the broth and soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce). Stir and scrape up any browned bits from cooking the meatballs. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit.
5. Serving:
Spoon the creamy sweet potato mash onto plates or bowls. Top with the warm pork meatballs, and drizzle some of the sauce over them. Garnish with chopped parsley and a small rosemary sprig for a fresh, pretty touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious pork meatballs with sweet potato mash right away and enjoy a cozy, tasty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Pork for the Meatballs?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the meatballs hold together better.
Can I Make the Sweet Potato Mash Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mash up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover meatballs and mash in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the mash with a bit of butter or milk and warm the meatballs in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve With Pork Meatballs and Sweet Potato Mash?
This dish pairs nicely with simple steamed greens like broccoli or green beans, or a crisp side salad for a fresh contrast. For a heartier meal, add roasted vegetables on the side.