This Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet is a fantastic one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor! Juicy pork pairs perfectly with tender sweet potatoes and a sprinkle of spices.
It cooks quickly, making it a winner for busy nights. I love how colorful it looks on my plate—almost like a work of art! Plus, who can resist those sweet, soft bites of potato? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of your skillet! It’s lean and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a substitution, chicken breast or turkey can work well. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they don’t dry out.
Sweet Potatoes: They add natural sweetness and creaminess. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash make solid alternatives, although they might change the flavor slightly.
Onion: A flavorful base for your dish. Yellow onions are great here, but if you prefer something milder, try shallots. You could also use green onions for a fresher taste!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a wonderful depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cumin can substitute, though the taste will differ. Fresh thyme is lovely, but dried thyme works just fine too.
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking sweet potatoes just right ensures they are tender and not mushy. Start by cutting them into equal-sized cubes—about 1 inch—to promote even cooking. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Cook them in the skillet on medium-high heat until they start to brown, about 8-10 minutes. This helps with flavor!
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and to cook evenly.
- Once they’re softened, it’s okay to set them aside while you cook the other ingredients. They will go back in later!
This technique keeps them firm and flavorful, so they don’t turn to mush in the final dish.
Pork And Sweet Potato Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish
- Optional: green beans or other vegetable sides
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sweet Potatoes:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sweet potato cubes. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until they start to soften and get a nice golden color. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Brown the Pork:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, add your cubed pork tenderloin to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika! Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the pork is nicely browned on all sides. Once browned, remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium and toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. It will smell amazing!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked pork and sweet potatoes back to the skillet with the onions. Pour in the chicken broth (or water), sprinkle with dried thyme, and stir everything together. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 5-8 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fully tender and the pork is cooked through.
5. Final Touches:
Give the dish a taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve Your Skillet:
Serve the pork and sweet potato skillet hot! Pair it with steamed green beans or your favorite vegetable sides for a complete meal.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Pork and Sweet Potato Skillet!
Can I Substitute the Pork Tenderloin?
Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs are great alternatives if you prefer poultry. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they stay juicy.
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 gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Skillet?
Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times so everything cooks evenly!
How Do I Know When the Pork is Fully Cooked?
The pork is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check, ensuring it’s juicy and safe to eat!
