Pierogies are the ultimate comfort food. These Eastern European dumplings are versatile, filling, and often remind us of family dinners.
While making pierogies from scratch is a labor of love, sometimes you just need a quick and easy meal. That’s where frozen pierogies come in! They’re readily available in most grocery stores and can be transformed into a delicious dish in minutes.
This article explores a number of ways to cook and enjoy frozen pierogies, but we’re especially excited to share a quick and easy casserole recipe using frozen pierogies that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Pierogi Casserole: A Quick and Easy Dinner
This pierogi casserole is a family favorite at my house because it’s so quick to throw together. It’s also endlessly adaptable depending on what you have on hand.
Ingredients for the Pierogi Casserole
- 16 ounces frozen potato pierogi
- 14 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine pierogies, kielbasa, chicken broth, sour cream, cream cheese, and pepper.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
Tips and Variations
- If you don’t have kielbasa, try using other smoked sausages like turkey or chicken sausage.
- Get creative with the cheese! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack would all be delicious.
- Sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms would add great flavor and nutrition.
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Alternative Cooking Methods for Frozen Pierogies
Besides casseroles, there are several other ways to cook frozen pierogies that are quick and easy.
Boiling
To boil frozen pierogies, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the frozen pierogies and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they float to the top. Drain them well and top them with butter, sour cream, or sautéed onions.
Pan-Frying
For pan-fried pierogies, melt butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the frozen pierogies and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Then top with your favorite garnishes.
Baking
While we’ve already covered baked pierogies as part of a casserole, you can also bake them on their own. Toss them with oil and seasonings, spread them on a baking sheet, and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Serving and Storing Your Pierogies
Pierogies are great as a main course, but they can also play a solid supporting role as a side dish. I like to top mine with butter, sour cream, and caramelized onions. Bacon bits and gravy are other popular choices.
Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, oven, or a skillet until they’re warmed through.
You can also freeze cooked pierogies. To do this, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag.
Putting It All Together
Frozen pierogies are a fantastic pantry staple because they’re quick, easy, and versatile. Whether you need a satisfying side dish or a full meal, pierogies deliver.
In this article, we’ve explored several different ways to cook frozen pierogies, from a simple casserole to boiling, pan-frying, and baking. Each method offers a slightly different texture and flavor, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
The best part about cooking with pierogies is how easy it is to add your own personal touch. Try different toppings, sauces, and spices to create a dish that’s all your own. Enjoy!