Pierogies and Kielbasa
Browned onions in butter make a simple sauce for this easy one-skillet meal featuring Pierogies and Kielbasa. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines the comforting flavors of potato and cheese stuffed mini pierogi with the savory taste of warm smoked sausage. It’s a delicious meal that brings Polish tradition right to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of buttery onions, pierogies, and kielbasa creates a rich and satisfying meal.
- Versatile Dish: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a cozy date night meal.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one pan.
- Kid-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it appealing to both kids and adults.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Pierogies and Kielbasa requires just a few essential tools. Having these on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Pot for boiling
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A must-have for sautéing the kielbasa and onions together; it helps achieve that perfect golden brown finish.
- Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring the ingredients evenly so they cook properly.
- Pot for boiling: Necessary for cooking the pierogies according to package instructions.
Ingredients
For the Pierogies
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound Kielbasa (thinly sliced)
- 25 mini Pierogies
- 1 medium onion (coarsely chopped)
How to Make Pierogies and Kielbasa
Step 1: Cook the Pierogies
- Cook pierogies according to the directions on the package. We suggest adding them to boiling water; return water to a boil for 3 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Kielbasa
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add kielbasa slices and turn often until browned. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook Onions
- In the same skillet, add 3 more tablespoons of butter.
- Sauté onions until tender.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in cooked pierogies and kielbasa until they are well coated in butter and warmed through.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delightful dish of Pierogies and Kielbasa!
How to Serve Pierogies and Kielbasa
Serving Pierogies and Kielbasa is a delightful way to enjoy this comforting Polish dish. You can enhance the meal with various toppings and sides that complement its rich flavors.
Classic Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the dish’s richness.
- Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a nice crunch and brightness.
- Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon bits add a savory, smoky flavor that pairs well with both pierogies and kielbasa.
Accompaniments
- Sauerkraut: This tangy side offers a nice contrast to the hearty pierogies and sausage.
- Pickled Vegetables: A mix of pickled cucumbers or beets can add acidity and freshness to the meal.
- Side Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the butter sauce.
Bread Options
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for soaking up any leftover butter sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can also be a great addition to the meal, perfect for dipping.
How to Perfect Pierogies and Kielbasa
To make your Pierogies and Kielbasa truly shine, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your dish is both delicious and satisfying.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality kielbasa and pierogies for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Avoid overcooking the kielbasa; it should be browned but not dry.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Maintain Heat: Keep the skillet at medium-high heat for proper browning without burning.
Best Side Dishes for Pierogies and Kielbasa
Pairing side dishes with Pierogies and Kielbasa enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These offer a crispy texture that complements the softness of pierogies.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to this hearty dish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with kielbasa’s smokiness.
- Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf can soak up any extra sauce while adding variety to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pierogies and Kielbasa can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the prep: Always prepare your ingredients before cooking. This ensures you have everything on hand and makes cooking smoother.
- Overcooking pierogies: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooked pierogies can become mushy and lose flavor.
- Burning the onions: Keep an eye on the heat when sautéing onions. If they burn, they will taste bitter and ruin your dish.
- Not enough butter: Butter is key for flavor in this dish. Don’t skimp on it; use enough to coat all ingredients well.
- Neglecting seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings. A little salt or pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pierogies and Kielbasa
- Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Pierogies and Kielbasa
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat with a bit of butter until warm, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pierogies and Kielbasa?
Pierogies are dumplings filled with various ingredients like potatoes and cheese, while Kielbasa is a type of Polish sausage. Together, they create a delicious meal!
Can I customize my Pierogies and Kielbasa?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or try different types of sausages for variation.
How do I cook frozen Pierogies?
You can boil them directly from frozen or sauté them in butter after boiling for added flavor.
Are there vegetarian options for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute traditional Kielbasa with vegetarian sausage and use meat-free pierogi fillings.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for Pierogies and Kielbasa is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings joy to the table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for cozy dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!
Pierogies and Kielbasa
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Pierogies and Kielbasa, a delightful one-skillet meal that brings Polish tradition to your dining table. This easy recipe features potato and cheese-filled pierogies, perfectly paired with savory smoked sausage. With buttery sautéed onions enhancing the dish, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Made in just 25 minutes and requiring minimal cleanup, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound Kielbasa (thinly sliced)
- 25 mini Pierogies
- 1 medium onion (coarsely chopped)
Instructions
- Cook pierogies according to package instructions in boiling water for about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté kielbasa slices until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Add remaining butter to the skillet and sauté onions until tender.
- Return kielbasa and cooked pierogies to the skillet, stirring until everything is well-coated in butter and warmed through.
- Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
