Pierogi (Stuffed Dumplings) – Traditional Polish Recipe with Savory

Pierogi (Stuffed Dumplings) – If there’s one dish that perfectly captures the heart of Eastern European comfort food, it’s Pierogi (Stuffed Dumplings). These delicate, hand-shaped dumplings are filled with everything from creamy mashed potatoes and cheese to sauerkraut, mushrooms, or even sweet fruit. Pierogi have become a global favorite thanks to their soft dough, satisfying fillings, and versatility — perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even dessert.

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Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Active Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cuisine: Polish / Eastern European
Course: Main Course / Side Dish
Servings: 6 servings (about 30 dumplings)
Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups (315 g)

• Egg – 1 large

• Sour cream – ½ cup (120 g)

• Butter – 2 tablespoons, softened

• Salt – ½ teaspoon

• Water – 2–3 tablespoons, as needed

For the Filling (Classic Potato & Cheese):

• Potatoes – 2 cups (about 3 medium), peeled and boiled

• Cottage cheese or farmer’s cheese – 1 cup

• Onion – 1 small, finely chopped

• Butter – 1 tablespoon

• Salt and pepper – to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Rolling pin

• Knife or pastry cutter

• Round cookie cutter (about 3 inches)

• Saucepan or pot (for boiling)

• Skillet (for frying or finishing)

• Slotted spoon

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add egg, sour cream, and softened butter. Mix together with a spoon or your hands until the dough starts to come together.

Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is soft and elastic but not sticky. Knead on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.

Cover the dough with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 15–20 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rests, make the filling.
Boil peeled potatoes until tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the finely chopped onion until golden and fragrant. Mix the onions into the mashed potatoes along with the cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is creamy and cohesive. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into two portions. Roll out one portion to about 1/8-inch thickness.

Using a round cutter or glass, cut circles approximately 3 inches wide. Gather and reroll the scraps as needed.

Step 4: Fill and Shape the Pierogi

Place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.

Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp the edges with a fork or pinch them by hand for a traditional look. Make sure there are no gaps; otherwise, they’ll open while boiling.

Step 5: Cook the Pierogi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop the pierogi in batches (about 8–10 at a time).

Cook until they float to the surface — about 3–4 minutes. Let them cook for 1 more minute, then remove with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate.

(Optional: Brush cooked pierogi lightly with melted butter to prevent sticking.)

Step 6: Pan-Fry for Extra Flavor

For an authentic finish, heat some butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the boiled pierogi and pan-fry them until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.

Top with caramelized onions and fresh herbs before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pierogi can be served in endless ways depending on the filling:

• Savory Pierogi: Serve with caramelized onions, butter, and sour cream.

• Sweet Pierogi: Fill with blueberries, strawberries, or sweet cheese and serve with powdered sugar or honey.

• Festive Touch: Pair with Polish sausage, sauerkraut, or a side of borscht soup for a traditional meal.

Conclusion

Few dishes capture the warmth of home cooking quite like Pierogi (Stuffed Dumplings). With their tender dough, creamy potato-cheese filling, and buttery finish, these dumplings embody comfort in every bite.

Whether you’re celebrating your Polish heritage or simply exploring global flavors, making pierogi from scratch is an experience worth savoring. Each bite tells a story — of tradition, love, and the simple joy of sharing food with others.