Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash

Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash is a hearty meal that combines tender, juicy meatballs with creamy, naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes. The meatballs are packed with flavor and have…

By Willow • November 23, 2025 • Reading time: 7 min

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Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash is a hearty meal that combines tender, juicy meatballs with creamy, naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes. The meatballs are packed with flavor and have a nice little crisp on the outside, while the mash brings a smooth, comforting balance to the plate.

I love making this dish when I want something filling but still a bit special. The sweet potato mash is a great twist from regular potatoes, and I like adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to it for warmth. The pork meatballs are easy to customize too—sometimes I sneak in fresh herbs or a bit of garlic to keep things interesting.

My favorite way to enjoy this meal is straight from the skillet, with a simple side of steamed greens or a fresh salad. It’s quick to prepare and always leaves everyone feeling satisfied without being too heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into dinner if you have little ones around.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Pork: This is the star protein in the meatballs, giving them juicy texture and rich flavor. If needed, you can swap it for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.

Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory meatballs beautifully. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, orange or yellow-fleshed potatoes also work well.

Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs and keep them tender. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami and depth. If you want to skip dairy or don’t have it, just add a bit more herbs or spices instead.

Butter & Milk (for mash): These make the mash creamy and rich. Dairy-free eaters can use olive oil or dairy-free butter and plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

How Do I Get Flavorful, Tender Meatballs Without Them Falling Apart?

Making meatballs that hold together yet stay soft can be tricky. Here’s what I do:

• Use a gentle touch when mixing the pork with other ingredients. Overmixing makes the meat tough.
• Add breadcrumbs and an egg to bind the mix perfectly.
• Let the meatball mixture rest for 15 minutes in the fridge if you can. This helps it firm up and makes shaping easier.
• When cooking, brown the meatballs evenly on all sides over medium heat, then cook through. This seals in juices and creates a tasty crust.

What’s the Best Way to Make Creamy Sweet Potato Mash?

Cooking and mashing sweet potatoes is simple but there are a few tricks:

• Cut the potatoes into even chunks so they cook evenly and quickly.
• Don’t overboil—test with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart.
• Drain completely before mashing to avoid watery mash.
• Add warm butter and milk for smooth texture; cold liquid cools the mash down.
• Optional pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a cozy hint of spice.

How Can I Make a Quick Sauce That Boosts Flavor?

The sauce here is easy but adds a lot. After cooking the meatballs, use the pan drippings with broth and soy or Worcestershire sauce for savory depth. Sweeten slightly with honey or maple syrup to balance flavors. Thicken with a cornstarch slurry if you want a richer texture. Always taste and adjust to your liking.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining meatball ingredients without making a mess.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions, garlic, and herbs easily.
• Pot or saucepan – to boil sweet potatoes until tender.
• Potato masher or fork – helps you mash sweet potatoes to a creamy texture.
• Large non-stick skillet or frying pan – great for cooking meatballs evenly and getting a nice brown crust.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your seasoning and sauce ratios just right.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap ground pork for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner meatball option that still stays juicy.
• Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the meatballs for an herbal boost that pairs well with the sweet potatoes.
• Mix shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar into the meatballs for a gooey surprise inside.
• Stir in sautéed spinach or kale into the sweet potato mash for extra color and nutrition.

Pork Meatballs with Sweet Potato Mash

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pork Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sweet Potato Mash:

• 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 lb / 450 g)
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup milk or cream (adjust to preferred consistency)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry, optional for thickening)

For Garnish and Sides:

• Fresh greens or sautéed spinach
• Microgreens or fresh parsley for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This meal takes about 40 minutes from start to finish. Preparing and boiling the sweet potatoes will take around 20 minutes, while making and cooking the meatballs takes about 15 minutes. Finishing the sauce and assembling your plate will add a few more minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Mash:

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Boil them in salted water until they are tender—this should take about 15-20 minutes. Once soft, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Add butter, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg if you like. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy, then keep warm while you prepare the meatballs.

2. Make the Pork Meatballs:

In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and the smoked paprika. Mix gently but thoroughly—take care not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender. Shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1.5 inches (3-4 cm) wide.

3. Cook the Meatballs:

Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, spacing them evenly. Cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes. Remove the meatballs and keep them warm.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

Using the same skillet, pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, soy or Worcestershire sauce, and honey or maple syrup. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. If you want a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and stir until it thickens slightly. Taste your sauce and add salt or pepper if needed.

5. Assemble and Serve:

Spread a generous amount of sweet potato mash on each plate. Arrange the cooked pork meatballs on top, then drizzle with the savory sauce. Add some sautéed spinach or fresh greens on the side. For a final touch, garnish with microgreens or fresh parsley.

6. Enjoy!

Serve your delicious pork meatballs with sweet potato mash warm, and enjoy a cozy, comforting meal perfect for any day of the week.

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 pork 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! You can prepare the mash a day in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it if it’s too thick.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover meatballs and sweet potato mash separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Can I Substitute the Sauce Ingredients?

Yes! If you don’t have soy or Worcestershire sauce, try using a splash of balsamic vinegar or tamari for gluten-free options. For sweeteners, honey or maple syrup both work well—choose what you prefer.