When comfort food meets elegance, the result is Pork Meatballs in a Rich Bourbon-Maple Sauce with Sweet Potato Mash. This dish combines tender, juicy pork meatballs with a glossy, deeply flavored bourbon-maple sauce, served over silky sweet potato mash. It’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or when you want a homemade meal that feels truly special without being complicated.
Ingredients List
the Pork Meatballs
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500 g (1.1 lb) ground pork
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1 small onion, finely grated
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 egg
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½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
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2 tablespoons milk
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
Bourbon-Maple Sauce
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¼ cup bourbon
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⅓ cup pure maple syrup
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or dried)
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1 tablespoon butter
For the Sweet Potato Mash
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800 g (1¾ lb) sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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2 tablespoons butter
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¼ cup milk or cream
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Salt, to taste
Optional Garnish
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Fresh thyme sprigs
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Chopped parsley
Required Kitchen Tools
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Large mixing bowl
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Sharp knife and cutting board
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Large skillet or sauté pan
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Saucepan
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Potato masher or fork
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Measuring cups and spoons
These basic tools are all you need to prepare Pork Meatballs in a Rich Bourbon-Maple Sauce with Sweet Potato Mash comfortably at home.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Mash
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until very tender. Drain well, then mash with butter, milk, and salt until smooth and creamy. Cover and keep warm.
2: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, grated onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3: Shape and Cook the Meatballs
Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4: Prepare the Bourbon-Maple Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly. Add the bourbon and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Stir in maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer gently until slightly thickened.
5: Combine and Glaze
Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Add butter and gently simmer for another 5 minutes until the meatballs are fully coated in the rich, glossy sauce.
6: Serve
Spoon the sweet potato mash onto plates, top with the pork meatballs, and drizzle generously with bourbon-maple sauce. Garnish if desired. Pork Meatballs in a Rich Bourbon-Maple Sauce with Sweet Potato Mash are best served hot.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Results
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Use ground pork with a bit of fat for juicier meatballs.
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Grated onion adds moisture and flavor—don’t skip it.
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Let the sauce reduce slowly for a deeper, richer taste.
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If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.
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Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pork Meatballs in a Rich Bourbon-Maple Sauce with Sweet Potato Mash are hearty enough to stand alone, but they also pair beautifully with:
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Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
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A crisp green salad for contrast
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Buttery corn or glazed carrots
This dish works well for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
(Estimated values, may vary)
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Calories: ~520 kcal
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Protein: ~28 g
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Fat: ~30 g
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Carbohydrates: ~38 g
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Fiber: ~5 g
The balance of protein, healthy carbs, and satisfying fats makes Pork Meatballs in a Rich Bourbon-Maple Sauce with Sweet Potato Mash a filling and comforting meal.
Variations and Customization
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Replace pork with turkey or beef if preferred.
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Add chili flakes for a subtle heat.
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Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
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Add a splash of cream to the mash for extra richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Both the meatballs and mash reheat well. Store separately for best texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Freeze the meatballs and sauce in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Is the bourbon necessary?
No. You can substitute with beef broth and a splash of vanilla for depth.
Conclusion
Comforting, rich, and beautifully balanced, Pork Meatballs in a Rich Bourbon-Maple Sauce with Sweet Potato Mash are the kind of meal that brings warmth to the table and satisfaction with every bite. The tender meatballs, glossy sauce, and creamy mash come together effortlessly, making this recipe perfect for both weeknight dinners and special moments. Try it once, and it’s sure to earn a permanent place in your comfort food rotation.
