Pierogi

What's better than the combination of potato and cheese? If you agree that there isn't a more classic pairing, then you are going to love these homemade pierogi.

Stuffed with a flavorful potato cheese filling and cooked to golden brown perfection, this traditional pierogi recipe makes it easy to bring the taste of Poland right into your kitchen.

Whether you are looking to create a traditional Polish meal or simply have a delicious cheesy snack to enjoy, these potato and cheese pierogi will definitely fulfill that savory craving.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This authentic pierogies recipe will work for you on so many levels.

To begin with, these traditional pierogi are very easily adaptable. Whether you want to make the dough gluten-free, make a sweet pierogi filling, or add some additional toppings like crispy bacon bits and caramelized onions, this recipe makes it easy to do just that.

Additionally, this recipe lays all of the steps out for you to follow with ease. This easy recipe takes what seems like a complicated recipe and turns it into some easy-to-follow steps so that you can have fresh homemade pierogies on your table ready to eat in 1 hour or less.

Ingredients

Potatoes:

Potatoes act as the hearty filling for the pierogi, providing a satisfying contrast to the tender dough. The best potatoes to use for your pierogi filling are starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold, which mash easily and yield a smooth filling.

Seasonings:

For authentic flavor, traditional seasonings like salt and pepper are essential in pierogi recipes. Additionally, herbs such as parsley or chives can impart freshness and depth to the filling. Depending on personal taste preferences, other common seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika, which add savory notes to the filling.

Cheddar Cheese:

For a creamy and flavorful pierogi filling, a combination of cheeses works best. Traditional choices include mild cheeses like farmer's cheese or dry cottage cheese, which add a subtle tanginess and creaminess to the filling. Additionally, sharp cheeses like cheddar or aged gouda can provide a robust flavor that complements the potatoes well. For added richness, some recipes incorporate cream cheese or sour cream, enhancing the texture and taste of the filling.

Dough:

While this traditional recipe includes a recipe to make the dough from scratch as well, you can also save yourself some time and energy in the kitchen by buying prepared dough. Many grocery stores will carry dough made specifically for pierogies, however you can also use wonton or dumpling wrappers.

How to Make Pierogi

Step One: 

In a large pot, bring chopped potatoes to a boil and continue to simmer until the potatoes are cooked through, then strain and set aside.

Step Two: 

Add flour, salt, eggs, water, and oil to a large bowl. Stir to combine until a dough forms. Set aside.

Step Three: 

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Step Four:

Once the skillet is hot, add the onion and cook until soft and opaque. 2-4 minutes.

Step Five: 

Add half of the cooked onions to the cooked potatoes and mash them.

Step Six: 

Add garlic powder, pepper, salt, cheese, the remaining cooked onion, and green onion to the pot and mix until combined.

Step Seven: 

Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface to ¼-1/2 inch thickness.

Step Eight: 

Cut multiple rounds from the dough and place a spoonful of filling in each.

Step Nine: 

Fold the rounds in half to create a pocket and pinch the edges together to secure them closed.

Step Ten: 

Add olive oil to a skillet over medium-high heat

Step Eleven: 

Place your pierogi evenly spaced in the hot skillet.

Step Twelve: 

Cook them on one side for approximately 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Step Thirteen: 

Flip your pierogi and add a little water to the pan. Cover the skillet with a lid and continue to cook until the water evaporates and the pierogi are cooked through—approximately 2-3 minutes.

Step Fourteen: 

Serve with fresh herbs, and enjoy!

Tips

• After preparing your homemade pierogi dough, allow it to rest for about 30 minutes to relax the gluten. This will make it easier to roll out and shape without springing back.
• While a traditional pierogi recipe typically includes fillings like potato and cheese, don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations such as sauerkraut and mushroom, meat, spinach and feta, or even sweet fillings like fruit or chocolate.
• Serve your Polish pierogi with traditional accompaniments such as sour cream, caramelized onions, crispy bacon bits, or a dollop of butter. These toppings complement the flavors of the pierogi and enhance the overall experience.

What to Serve With Pierogi

There are a number of delicious accompaniments that you can serve alongside your delicious potato and cheese pierogi. To create a traditional Polish meal, serve your Polish dumplings with authentic dishes like sauerkraut soup, kielbasa, or some horseradish sauce. Additionally, these delicious pierogies can be served on their own with a side of crispy bacon bits and caramelized onions as a lighter meal or afternoon snack.

FAQs

Can I make pierogi gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free pierogi by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of traditional flour. However, the dough may be slightly more delicate and may require additional care when handling.

How long can leftover pierogi be kept fresh?

When stored in an airtight container, you can store your leftover homemade pierogies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-term storage, they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply lay out your pierogi on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for permanent storage.

How do I reheat pierogi?

To reheat pierogi, you can either boil them briefly until heated through or pan-fry them in a bit of butter until crispy and golden brown. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make the dough tough.

Similar Recipes

While this recipe is a little complex, these additional potato recipes are much easier to make. Check out our collection of more potato recipes to inspire your next meal:

Air Fryer Potato Rosti

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Greek Lemon Potatoes

And you can also try this easy Instant Pot Steamed Dumplings  recipe.