Easy Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash is the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that feels special without being complicated. In the very first bite, you get tender, juicy pork meatballs coated in a glossy bourbon-maple sauce, balanced by the natural sweetness and creaminess of mashed sweet potatoes. It’s a dinner that works just as well for a relaxed weeknight as it does for serving guests when you want something comforting but impressive.
This recipe is inspired by the classic sweet-and-savory flavor combination of maple and savory sauce, paired with hearty meatballs and a smooth vegetable mash. The result is a plate that’s warming, family-friendly, and easy enough for home cooks of any skill level.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash
There are plenty of reasons this dish earns a regular spot in the dinner rotation:
- Comfort food made simple: No complicated techniques or fancy equipment required.
- Balanced flavors: Sweet maple syrup, savory sauce, and rich pork work beautifully together.
- Family-friendly: Mild, cozy flavors that both adults and kids enjoy.
- Meal-prep friendly: Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.
- Customizable: Easy to adjust for dietary needs, alcohol-free versions, or different proteins.
If you love meals that feel hearty and nourishing without taking hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a clear winner.
Ingredients for Easy Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash
Pork Meatballs
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Bourbon-Maple Sauce
- ⅓ cup tomato paste
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup bourbon
- ¼ cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
Sweet Potato Mash
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- ¼ cup milk or dairy-free milk
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Bourbon: If you prefer an alcohol-free dish, replace the bourbon with extra chicken broth plus 1–2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. This keeps the depth of flavor without alcohol.
- Pork substitute: Ground turkey or chicken works well if you don’t eat pork. For plant-based options, lentil or mushroom meatballs pair nicely with the maple sauce.
- Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats if needed.
- Sweet potatoes: Orange sweet potatoes are classic, but white or purple varieties also work.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2 – Make the Pork Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the meatballs dense.
Step 3 – Shape and Cook the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a light drizzle of oil. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
Step 4 – Prepare the Bourbon-Maple Sauce
In the same skillet, whisk together tomato paste, chicken broth, maple syrup, bourbon, and coconut aminos. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 5 – Simmer Meatballs in the Sauce
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over them, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes. The sauce will thicken into a glossy glaze that coats each meatball beautifully.
Step 6 – Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Add butter (or olive oil), milk, and salt to the drained sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 7 – Serve
Spoon sweet potato mash onto plates and top with pork meatballs and plenty of bourbon-maple sauce. Serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use plain ground pork: Avoid pre-seasoned meat to keep flavors balanced.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook meatballs in batches if needed for even browning.
- Simmer gently: A low simmer keeps the sauce glossy instead of reducing too fast.
- Taste the sauce: Adjust sweetness with more maple syrup or saltiness with coconut aminos.
- Make ahead: Meatballs and sauce can be prepared a day in advance and reheated.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Maple Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Herb-Forward: Mix chopped fresh thyme or rosemary into the meatballs.
- Garlic Lovers: Add roasted garlic to the sweet potato mash.
- Smoky Twist: Stir a small amount of smoked paprika into the sauce.
- Citrus Brightness: Finish the sauce with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs well with simple sides:
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Crusty bread to soak up extra sauce
For entertaining, you can also serve the meatballs separately as an appetizer with toothpicks, alongside a bowl of sweet potato mash.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Meatballs and sauce freeze well for up to 3 months. Freeze sweet potato mash separately for best texture.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 |
| Protein | ~26 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~38 g |
| Fat | ~28 g |
| Fiber | ~6 g |
| Sodium | ~720 mg |
Values are approximate and will vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Easy Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash
Can I make this recipe alcohol-free?
Yes, absolutely. Simply replace the bourbon with extra chicken broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. You’ll still get a rich, balanced sauce without any alcohol.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?
Yes. Bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until fully cooked, then add them to the sauce to simmer.
Are these pork meatballs good for meal prep?
They’re excellent for meal prep. The flavors deepen as they sit, making leftovers especially delicious over the next few days.
What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?
Mashed regular potatoes, cauliflower mash, or even polenta work well as a base for the meatballs and sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Use olive oil instead of butter and dairy-free milk for the sweet potato mash.
Easy Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash
Equipment
- large pot
- large mixing bowl
- skillet
- potato masher
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/3 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1/4 cup milk or dairy-free milk
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
Instructions
- Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ground pork, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches wide. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes. Remove to a plate.
- In the same skillet, whisk together tomato paste, chicken broth, maple syrup, bourbon, and coconut aminos. Bring to a gentle simmer until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, spoon sauce over them, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until glossy and thick.
- Add butter, milk, and salt to the cooked sweet potatoes and mash until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon sweet potato mash onto plates and top with pork meatballs and bourbon-maple sauce. Serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Easy Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash brings together everything we love about home cooking: comforting flavors, simple ingredients, and a meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or serving guests, this recipe delivers warmth and flavor without stress. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite you return to again and again.