This easy classic pierogies and sausage skillet combines soft, chewy pierogies with tasty sausage for a satisfying meal. Just a few simple ingredients make this dish special!
Nothing beats the comforting mix of flavors here. Plus, it’s a quick dinner solution that you can whip up on a busy night. Trust me, your family will ask for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pierogies: I love using potato and cheese pierogies, as they have a nice creamy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mushroom or sauerkraut-filled varieties instead.
Sausage: Smoked sausage or kielbasa adds great flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works well, or you can skip meat and use cooked mushrooms for a veggie twist.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness when caramelized. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can leave them out, or substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
Chicken broth: This is optional, but it helps steam the pierogies and makes them extra soft. Water can also be used, or even vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is the key to bringing out their natural sweetness and adding depth to the dish. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning.
- Stir occasionally, letting the onions turn golden, and this usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Don’t rush it; patience makes them caramelize beautifully.
Easy Classic Pierogies and Sausage Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 package (about 12 oz) refrigerated or frozen pierogies (potato and cheese variety work well)
- 12 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for steaming pierogies)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, with the cooking taking another 20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s sure to please everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook it until it’s browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil together. Once the butter is melted and hot, toss in the sliced onion. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they’re caramelized and beautifully golden brown, which should take around 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the Pierogies:
Now, push the onions to the side of the skillet and add in the pierogies in a single layer. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until they’re nice and golden brown.
4. Steam the Pierogies:
Carefully flip the pierogies and add chicken broth or water to the skillet if you’re using it. This will help steam the pierogies and make them tender. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook together for another 5 minutes.
5. Finish Cooking:
Once the time is up, remove the lid and cook off any remaining liquid. If you’d like, let the bottoms of the pierogies crisp up a little more for added texture.
6. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add the browned sausage back into the skillet with the pierogies and onions. Stir everything well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Take the skillet off the heat, and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting skillet meal!
Can I Use Frozen Pierogies in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just throw them into the skillet without thawing, but you might need to cook them a couple of extra minutes to ensure they’re heated through properly. If using frozen, add a bit of water or broth to help them steam.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Dish?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms. The onions and pierogies will still provide great flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam the contents and prevent sticking.
What Can I Serve with Pierogies and Sausage?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for some freshness. A dollop of sour cream or applesauce also pairs beautifully with pierogies!
