Homemade pierogi are like little pockets of joy, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked dumpling, the soft dough giving way to a creamy potato filling, seasoned just right. savory steak casserole The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making you feel all warm and fuzzy inside—like a hug from your grandma.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best filling for homemade pierogi?
- Can I freeze homemade pierogi?
- How do I know when pierogi are cooked?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I make homemade pierogi, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and everyone eagerly awaited the feast. Those evenings were filled with stories and flavors that lingered long after the last bite. Whether it’s a cozy winter night or a festive gathering, homemade pierogi never fail to bring people together for an unforgettable culinary experience. For more inspiration, check out this French Toast Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Homemade pierogi are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs
- The rich flavor of the filling is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters
- Their golden-brown exterior makes them visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, these delightful dumplings can be customized with various fillings based on your taste preferences
I remember my friend’s face lighting up when I served her my homemade pierogi for the first time; she couldn’t stop smiling!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious stuffed shells. classic meatloaf recipe.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for creating the dough; opt for unbleached for better texture.
- Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy filling that mashes beautifully.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling; sauté until golden.
- Cottage Cheese: This will give your filling a creamy texture; choose full-fat for richness.
- Eggs: They help bind the dough together; use large eggs for best results.
- Sour Cream: A dollop on top brings tanginess that complements the dumplings perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt, then create a well in the center. Add eggs and gradually mix in water until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.
Make the Filling: Boil potatoes until tender; drain and mash them while still warm. Sauté onions in butter until golden brown, then mix them into the mashed potatoes along with cottage cheese, salt, and pepper. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Roll Out the Dough: Divide your dough into smaller portions to make it easier to work with. Roll each portion out on a floured surface until thin but not transparent—about 1/8 inch thick.
Cut Out Circles: Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles from rolled dough about 3 inches in diameter. Gather scraps to re-roll as needed for more circles.
Fill and Seal Pierogi: Place about one tablespoon of potato filling onto each circle. Fold over and pinch edges tightly to seal; you can also crimp with a fork for extra flair.
Cook Them Up!: Bring salted water to boil in a large pot. Drop pierogi in batches; they are done when they float—about 3-5 minutes! Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Enjoying homemade pierogi is not just about eating; it’s an experience that combines flavors, aromas, and cherished memories all wrapped up in one delightful bite!
You Must Know
- Homemade pierogi are not just a meal; they’re a labor of love
- This delightful dish can be made with endless fillings, making it perfect for any occasion
- The aroma of sautéed onions and buttery dough will fill your kitchen, creating a comforting atmosphere that invites everyone to the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the dough, letting it rest while preparing your filling. Cook pierogi in boiling salted water until they float, then sauté in butter for a crispy finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional fillings for creative options like spinach and feta or sweet potato and sage. sweet potato and sausage bake Top with caramelized onions or sour cream for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pierogi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat by sautéing in butter or microwaving until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect dough, let it rest; this makes it easier to roll out and shape
- Ensure water is salted well before cooking; this enhances flavor right from the start
- To avoid sticking, dust your work surface with flour while rolling out dough
The first time I made homemade pierogi was a family affair; my grandma’s laughter filled the kitchen as we rolled out dough together, creating memories that still make me smile today.
FAQ
What is the best filling for homemade pierogi?
The best filling depends on personal preference; classic potato and cheese never disappoints.
Can I freeze homemade pierogi?
Yes, freeze uncooked pierogi in a single layer before transferring them to a bag.
How do I know when pierogi are cooked?
Pierogi are ready when they float to the surface of boiling water after about five minutes.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Homemade Pierogi
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings (48 pierogi) 1x
Description
Homemade pierogi are delightful dumplings filled with creamy potato, onion, and cottage cheese, wrapped in a tender dough. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, these little pockets of joy promise to transport you back to cherished moments around the dinner table. Easy to prepare and customizable with various fillings, homemade pierogi are sure to become a beloved dish in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 medium starchy potatoes (about 1 lb), peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat)
- 2 tbsp butter (for sautéing onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and a pinch of salt. Create a well in the center, add the egg, and gradually mix in water until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.
- Make the Filling: Boil potatoes until tender; drain and mash while warm. Sauté onions in butter until golden, then combine with mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide dough into portions; roll each out to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 3-inch circles.
- Fill and Seal: Place one tablespoon of filling on each circle, fold over, and seal edges tightly.
- Cook: Boil salted water; drop pierogi in batches until they float (about 3-5 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pierogi (160g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg





