Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Fall in love with dinner all over again with Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe, a comforting dish that balances tender, flavorful pork medallions with creamy, velvety sweet potatoes. This recipe elevates weeknight dinners with minimal effort while delivering restaurant-quality taste right at home. The combination of apple cider and savory pork creates a rich, slightly sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the mashed sweet potatoes.

Whether cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply craving a hearty meal, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to making the most delicious Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe

  • Rich Flavor Fusion: Apple cider infuses the pork with a subtle sweetness and tang.

  • Tender, Juicy Pork: Medallions cook quickly yet stay moist and flavorful.

  • Creamy Comfort: Sweet potatoes mashed with butter and cream create the ultimate comfort side.

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Healthy & Balanced: High protein from pork and vitamins from sweet potatoes.

  • Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Simple pantry staples make this recipe accessible.

  • Kid-Friendly: Sweet, mild flavors appeal to all ages.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can prep pork marinade or mash potatoes in advance.

Ingredients

For the Apple Cider Pork

  • Pork tenderloin (1.5 pounds) – Trimmed and cut into medallions.

  • Apple cider (1 cup) – Provides sweetness and tenderizes pork.

  • Onion (1 medium, sliced) – Adds depth and aroma.

  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances savory notes.

  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – For searing and caramelization.

  • Thyme (1 teaspoon) – Fresh or dried for earthy aroma.

  • Salt & Pepper – To taste, enhances natural flavors.

  • Butter (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness to the sauce.

  • Cornstarch (1 tablespoon, optional) – For thickening sauce.

For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes

  • Sweet potatoes (2 large, peeled & cubed) – Naturally sweet and creamy.

  • Butter (2 tablespoons) – Adds creaminess.

  • Heavy cream or milk (¼ cup) – Smooth texture.

  • Salt (to taste) – Balances flavors.

  • Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon, optional) – Adds warmth and spice.

Substitutions & Tips:

  • Apple cider can be swapped with apple juice, though cider adds a more robust flavor.

  • Coconut milk can replace cream for a dairy-free version.

  • Thyme can be substituted with rosemary or sage for a slightly different herb profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Pork

Combine pork medallions with ½ cup apple cider, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Marinate 15–30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Marinating tenderizes the pork and infuses flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Bring salted water to a boil. Add sweet potato cubes and cook 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.

Step 3: Prepare the Pork

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork medallions 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove pork and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sauté onions 3–4 minutes in the same skillet. Add reserved marinade and remaining apple cider. Simmer gently. Return pork to skillet, cover, and cook 10–15 minutes until pork reaches 145°F (63°C).

Optional: Mix cornstarch with water and stir into sauce for thickening. Finish with butter for richness.

Step 5: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Add butter, cream, salt, and cinnamon to sweet potatoes. Mash until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 6: Serve

Plate mashed sweet potatoes, top with pork, drizzle sauce, and garnish with thyme.

Pro Tips

How do you keep pork tender and juicy?

  • Avoid overcooking; pork tenderloin is lean and cooks fast. Use a thermometer to hit 145°F.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

  • Yes! Marinate pork up to 2 hours ahead and reheat gently. Mashed sweet potatoes can be prepared a day prior.

Can I thicken the apple cider sauce without cornstarch?

  • Reduce sauce by simmering on medium heat for 5–10 minutes until it reaches desired consistency.

Best Ways to Serve

  • Pair with roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

  • Serve alongside a green salad for a light balance.

  • Try with garlic bread to soak up the apple cider sauce.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 450

  • Protein: 32g

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Sugar: 8g

  • Vitamin A: 220% DV

  • Vitamin C: 15% DV

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

  • Freezer: Pork and sweet potatoes separately, up to 1 month.

  • Reheat: Gently in a skillet or microwave; avoid high heat to prevent dryness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, boneless chicken breast or thighs work well, but adjust cooking time as chicken cooks faster.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, as long as cornstarch or other thickeners are gluten-free.

Can I make mashed sweet potatoes vegan?
Use plant-based butter and coconut milk instead of dairy cream.

What’s the best apple cider for this recipe?
Choose raw or unfiltered apple cider for the richest flavor.

Can this dish be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, sear pork first, then cook with onions and cider on low for 4–5 hours.

Variations

  • Honey Apple Cider Pork: Add 1 tablespoon honey to marinade for a sweeter sauce.

  • Spicy Cider Pork: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat.

  • Regional Twist: Use maple syrup instead of apple cider for a Canadian-inspired flavor.

  • Healthier Version: Steam sweet potatoes and reduce butter for lower fat content.

Conclusion

Unlock the heartwarming flavors of autumn with Apple Cider Pork with Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. Share your homemade creation on social media and tag your friends to spread the joy of comforting, flavorful meals.

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