Golden Fried Pierogi with Sour Cream and Fresh Dill

Golden fried pierogi are a beloved Eastern European comfort food, featuring tender dumplings filled with creamy potato and cheese, pan-fried to crisp perfection and served with tangy sour cream and fresh dill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together soft, doughy dumplings and crispy golden edges in a way that’s irresistibly satisfying. Whether you use store-bought pierogi or homemade ones, the rich, creamy filling paired with the fresh brightness of dill and the coolness of sour cream makes this dish comforting and refreshing at once.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pierogi (homemade or store-bought, typically potato and cheese-filled)
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Sour cream
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: caramelized onions, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for serving

Directions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a combination of butter and olive oil.
2. Place the pierogi in the skillet without overcrowding and cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels if needed.
4. Transfer to a serving platter.
5. Add dollops of sour cream and sprinkle with freshly chopped dill.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes (if using pre-made pierogi)
• Cook time: 10–15 minutes
• Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

• Use meat-filled pierogi or sauerkraut-filled varieties for a different flavor.
• Add sautéed onions or crispy bacon bits over the top for added richness.
• Make a dipping sauce using Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs as a lighter alternative to sour cream.
• Sprinkle with paprika or garlic powder for added spice.
• Serve alongside a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables for a traditional touch.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pan-fry again in a small amount of oil or butter until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture.

FAQs

What are pierogi made of?

Pierogi are Eastern European dumplings typically made from flour, eggs, water, and salt, filled with ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, meat, or sauerkraut.

Can I use frozen pierogi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen pierogi work well. Allow them to thaw slightly or boil them briefly before pan-frying to ensure they cook evenly.

How do I keep the pierogi from sticking to the pan?

Use a combination of butter and oil, and ensure the pan is properly preheated before adding the pierogi. Do not overcrowd the skillet.

Are pierogi always fried?

No. They can be boiled, steamed, or baked, but frying them gives a delicious golden crust that enhances the texture and flavor.

What kind of sour cream is best?

Full-fat sour cream is traditional, but you may use light sour cream or Greek yogurt as substitutes.

Can I make pierogi from scratch?

Yes. Homemade pierogi require dough preparation, filling, and shaping, but they freeze well and offer more flexibility in fillings.

Are there vegetarian options?

Certainly. Most potato and cheese pierogi are vegetarian. Simply avoid meat toppings like bacon.

What should I serve with pierogi?

They pair well with sautéed onions, smoked sausage, sauerkraut, or a fresh green salad.

Can I reheat pierogi in the microwave?

You can, but they may become soggy. For best results, reheat in a skillet to retain the crisp texture.

Can I freeze cooked pierogi?

Yes. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in a skillet from frozen.

Conclusion

Golden fried pierogi are a delightful and versatile dish that brings traditional flavors to any modern kitchen. Crispy, creamy, and easy to customize, they’re sure to become a staple for weeknights or special occasions alike. Ready for the next article?

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