This Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet is a tasty one-pan wonder! Juicy pork pairs perfectly with creamy sweet potatoes, making it a warm and comforting meal.
Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup—which is a win in my book! 🍽️ Plus, it’s packed with flavor, so you can enjoy every bite without feeling guilty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: I recommend using pork tenderloin for its tenderness, but pork chops work well too. If you want a leaner option, consider using chicken breast, which can absorb the flavors nicely.
Sweet Potatoes: They add a natural sweetness. If you can’t find them, regular potatoes can work, but you’ll lose that lovely sweet flavor. Also, butternut squash makes a great alternative!
Onion: A small yellow onion brings out a wonderful flavor when cooked. For a milder taste, you can substitute with shallots or even green onions.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too. Garlic powder can be swapped with minced fresh garlic for a stronger flavor.
Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans add a nice crunch, but feel free to use any greens like broccoli or zucchini as a side dish!
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking sweet potatoes until they are perfectly tender is key to this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook them in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Stir occasionally, allowing them to brown slightly.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes until they are fork-tender. If needed, lower the heat to prevent burning.
- Removing them from the pan before adding the pork helps keep them intact and prevents overcooking.
Remember, patience is key here! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Pork And Sweet Potato Skillet Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin or pork chops, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for deglazing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup green beans or another green vegetable, steamed or blanched (optional side)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and about 20 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced sweet potatoes. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender and starting to brown. Remove the sweet potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet, add the other tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced onion and sauté it until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will give a lovely base flavor to your dish!
3. Cook the Pork:
Add the cubed pork to the skillet with the onion. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture until the pork is nicely browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. It’s a good idea to stir the pork occasionally for even cooking.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, return the cooked sweet potatoes to the skillet with the pork. Stir everything together gently so that the flavors mix. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes. If the skillet seems dry, you can add the chicken broth or water to deglaze it, which will pick up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan!
5. Finishing Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish your dish with some freshly chopped parsley for a nice touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet warm, alongside steamed green beans or another vegetable of your choice. Enjoy your delicious, hearty meal!
Cooking can be a joyful experience, and I hope you enjoy every bite of this Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet! 😊
Can I Use Different Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork with chicken breast or thighs for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as chicken may cook faster. Ground turkey is also a great alternative; just make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned and no longer pink.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sweet potatoes and pork in advance. Cook them as instructed, let them cool, and store separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, combine them in a skillet and warm them together, adding a bit of chicken broth if needed to moisten.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed green beans, but you can also serve it with a simple salad, quinoa, or brown rice. For a heartier option, consider adding roasted vegetables or a crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors!
