Potato and Cheese Pierogi

Potato and Cheese Pierogi are classic Eastern European dumplings filled with creamy mashed potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese, then boiled and pan-fried in butter until golden. They’re rich, hearty, and satisfyingly indulgent — the ultimate comfort food that combines soft, tender dough with a smooth, cheesy filling. Whether you’re making them for a special family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these pierogi are simple, flavorful, and sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 3 eggs
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• ¾ cup water

For the Filling:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For Serving:

• ½ cup butter
• ¼ cup sour cream
• Minced chives

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, eggs, sour cream, and water until a dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 3–5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Make the Filling: In another bowl, combine mashed potatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Shape the Dough: Roll out the rested dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut into circles about 3½ to 5 inches wide.
5. Fill the Pierogi: Place a heaping tablespoon of potato mixture in the center of each circle. Fold in half and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
6. Boil the Pierogi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pierogi in small batches and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until they float. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Fry in Butter: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the boiled pierogi until lightly browned on both sides.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with sour cream and garnish with minced chives.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve pierogi hot right after pan-frying for the best texture — crispy on the outside and creamy inside. Top with sour cream, caramelized onions, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. They also pair wonderfully with a side of sautéed cabbage or a fresh cucumber salad.
• Refrigerating: Store leftover pierogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with butter or in the oven at 350°F until warm and golden.
• Freezing (Uncooked): Arrange uncooked pierogi on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Boil or fry straight from frozen — no need to thaw.
• Freezing (Cooked): You can also freeze cooked pierogi. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to bags. Reheat directly in a buttered skillet for best results.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can make the dough and filling up to one day ahead and refrigerate separately. Assemble and cook when ready to serve.

Variations

1. Bacon and Cheddar Pierogi: Add crispy bacon bits to the filling for a smoky, savory twist.
2. Spinach and Ricotta Pierogi: Replace half the potatoes with cooked spinach and add creamy ricotta for a fresh, green filling.
3. Mushroom and Onion Pierogi: Use sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for an earthy, hearty flavor.
4. Loaded Potato Pierogi: Mix bacon, cheddar, and chopped green onions into the filling for a loaded baked potato taste.
5. Buffalo Chicken Pierogi: Combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, and buffalo sauce for a spicy version.
6. Broccoli and Cheddar Pierogi: Add finely chopped cooked broccoli with cheddar cheese for a veggie-packed twist.
7. Jalapeño Cheddar Pierogi: Stir in diced jalapeños for a kick of heat with cheesy goodness.
8. Sauerkraut Pierogi: Mix sauerkraut and sautéed onions for a tangy, traditional Polish-style filling.
9. Garlic Herb Pierogi: Add roasted garlic, chives, and parsley to the potato mixture for a flavorful herbal upgrade.
10. Goat Cheese and Dill Pierogi: Fill with creamy goat cheese and fresh dill for a sophisticated flavor.
11. Sweet Cheese Pierogi: Swap savory filling for sweetened farmer’s cheese or ricotta and a touch of vanilla.
12. Apple Cinnamon Pierogi: Use cooked apples, cinnamon, and sugar for a dessert-style pierogi.
13. Cabbage and Carrot Pierogi: Combine sautéed cabbage, carrots, and butter for a lighter, sweet-savory filling.
14. Smoked Gouda Pierogi: Replace cheddar with smoked gouda for a rich, nutty flavor.
15. Meat Pierogi: Add ground beef or pork sautéed with onions and garlic for a hearty, protein-packed version.

FAQs

1. Can I make pierogi dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.
2. Can I freeze pierogi before cooking?
   Absolutely! Freeze them on a tray, then transfer to bags. Cook straight from frozen when ready.
3. Why did my pierogi open while boiling?
   The edges may not have been sealed tightly. Press them firmly to ensure no filling leaks.
4. Can I bake pierogi instead of frying?
   Yes, bake at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes, brushing with melted butter for a crispy texture.
5. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for the filling?
   Yes, but fresh mashed potatoes yield the best flavor and texture.
6. What cheese works best for pierogi?
   Sharp cheddar or farmer’s cheese are most traditional, but you can experiment with gouda or mozzarella.
7. Do I have to boil pierogi before frying?
   Yes, boiling ensures the dough cooks through and softens before getting crispy in the pan.
8. How do I reheat leftover pierogi?
   Sauté them in butter until hot and crispy or microwave them with a little water to keep them soft.
9. Can I make pierogi vegan?
   Yes, substitute eggs with flaxseed “eggs” and use dairy-free cheese and butter alternatives.
10. What can I serve pierogi with?
    Traditional sides include sour cream, caramelized onions, bacon bits, or a fresh cucumber salad.

These homemade Potato and Cheese Pierogi are the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy filling and soft, buttery dough. Each bite delivers pure comfort and warmth, making them ideal for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring authentic, hearty flavor straight to your table. Serve them fresh and golden, and enjoy a timeless dish loved across generations.

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