This Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet is a cozy dish that brings together tender pork and sweet potatoes in one pan. It’s simple and packed with flavor, making dinner a breeze!
You’ll love how the sweet potatoes get nice and caramelized, adding a hint of sweetness. I enjoy making this when I want something quick and delicious without the hassle of too many dishes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork: Pork tenderloin is fantastic for its tenderness and quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breast works nicely. For added flavor, consider using ground pork or sausage, though cooking times may vary.
Sweet Potatoes: They add a sweet and earthy flavor. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash can be good substitutes. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly as they may cook a bit faster or slower than sweet potatoes.
Onion: The onion brings depth to the dish and caramelizes beautifully. You can swap it with shallots or even use leeks for a milder flavor. Just adjust the quantity since shallots are smaller.
Spices: Smoked paprika is a personal favorite for its smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can enhance the taste. Feel free to play with seasonings to suit your taste!
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking sweet potatoes can be tricky to get just right! To ensure they are tender and caramelized, follow these steps:
- Dice them into uniform pieces about 1-inch to ensure even cooking.
- Start cooking them in the skillet on medium-high heat for a nice sear. This will help create a good texture.
- Don’t rush it—give them time! Cook for 8-10 minutes. If they are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
- Test for tenderness with a fork; they should be easily pierced but not mushy.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of crispy and soft sweet potatoes!
Pork And Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin or pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce or your choice of sauce (optional for drizzling)
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Cooked green beans or other green vegetables for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping and cooking the sweet potatoes and pork, and about 15 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and delicious meal that doesn’t take much time at all!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sweet Potatoes:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced sweet potatoes. Cook them while stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes until they start to soften and get a little brown on the edges. Once they look good, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Sautéing the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will add a wonderful flavor to the dish!
3. Adding Garlic and Pork:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you start to smell its yummy aroma. Now, add the pork pieces to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder if you’re using it. Cook everything until the pork is browned and fully cooked through, which will take about 6-8 minutes.
4. Combining Flavors:
Once the pork is cooked, bring back the sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for 2-3 more minutes, so all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Topping and Serving:
Finally, take the skillet off the heat and, if you like, drizzle some barbecue sauce over the mixture. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a fresh kick. Serve warm, and consider pairing it with some steamed green beans or your favorite veggie on the side!
Enjoy your hearty and colorful Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! You can use pork shoulder or pork chops, but keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, regular potatoes or even butternut squash will work well. Just adjust cooking times as these may differ in tenderness and cooking time!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pork and sweet potatoes ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. Just reheat and combine before serving for a quick meal!