Irresistible Potato Cheese Pierogi (Perogies) Recipe

Potato Cheese Pierogi, also called Perogies, are one of the most comforting homemade dishes you can prepare. They are made with a soft dough wrapped around a creamy filling of mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and sautéed onion. Once boiled, they are lightly pan-fried in butter for a golden finish that adds just the right amount of crispness.

This traditional recipe is perfect for family meals, gatherings, or even as a make-ahead option for busy weeks. With just a few simple ingredients from your kitchen, you can prepare a batch of pierogi that tastes fresh and satisfying every time. Whether served on their own or with sour cream and fresh herbs, they bring a delicious homemade touch to the table.

Why You’ll Love These Pierogi

• Easy to make with simple ingredients: The dough and filling come together with flour, potatoes, cheese, onion, and butter—no complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
• Rich and creamy filling: The combination of mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar, and onion creates a flavorful center that makes each bite hearty and satisfying.
• Versatile cooking options: You can boil them for a soft finish, sauté them for a golden crisp, or prepare them in advance and freeze for later.
• Family-friendly recipe: Great for sharing, these pierogi are loved by both kids and adults.
• Customizable flavors: You can keep the classic potato and cheese filling or try variations with herbs, caramelized onions, or even bacon for extra taste.

Ingredients Needed

To make the best homemade Potato Cheese Pierogi, you’ll need two main parts: the dough and the filling. Each plays a big role in creating soft, flavorful pierogi that cook beautifully and taste authentic.

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – gives the pierogi their structure and soft bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances flavors and enhances the dough.
• 1 large egg – binds the dough and adds richness.
• 1/2 cup sour cream – keeps the dough tender and slightly tangy.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted – adds softness and makes the dough easier to handle.

For the Filling

• 2 cups mashed potatoes – boiled and mashed until smooth; Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar melts into the potatoes and adds bold flavor.
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped and sautéed – adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – for seasoning the filling so it’s flavorful in every bite.

For Cooking

• Butter for sautéing – gives the pierogi a golden finish after boiling.
• Optional garnish – fresh parsley, chives, or sour cream for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Potato Cheese Pierogi at home is a process with three main stages: preparing the dough, preparing the filling, and assembling and cooking the pierogi. Here’s how to do it from start to finish:

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the egg, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix with a spoon until the dough begins to come together.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 3–5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This rest time helps the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out later.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. Boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender, then mash until smooth and lump-free.
2. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese while the potatoes are still warm so it melts evenly.
3. In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion in a little butter until soft and lightly golden, then mix it into the potatoes.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the filling to cool slightly before using.

3. Shape the Pierogi

1. Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass (about 3 inches wide) to cut circles.
3. Place a spoonful (about 1 tablespoon) of filling in the center of each circle.
4. Fold the dough over into a half-moon shape and pinch the edges tightly to seal. For extra security, press the edges with the tines of a fork.

4. Cook the Pierogi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
2. Add pierogi in small batches, stirring gently to prevent sticking. They are done when they float to the top (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
4. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the cooked pierogi until golden and slightly crispy on both sides.

5. Serve

• Serve warm with sour cream, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs.
• Optional: sprinkle with crispy bacon bits or drizzle with melted butter for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent filling from leaking.
• Freeze uncooked pierogi on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen without thawing.
• Try variations like adding caramelized onions, or different cheeses to the filling.

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Irresistible Potato Cheese Pierogi (Perogies) Recipe

Author: Chef Natalia Courses: Appetizers Recipe Keys: Salty Vegetarian

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 40 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 24

Description

These homemade Potato Cheese Pierogi are filled with creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and sautéed onion, wrapped in a soft dough, then boiled and pan-fried in butter until golden. A classic pierogi recipe that is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for family meals or make-ahead freezer batches.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ¹⁄₂ cup sour cream
• ¹⁄₄ cup butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes, peeled and boiled)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¹⁄₂ onion, finely chopped and sautéed
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Cooking:

• Butter for sautéing
• Optional garnish: sour cream, parsley, or chives

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add egg, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead for 3–5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the filling by mashing boiled potatoes, then mixing with cheddar cheese and sautéed onion. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut circles with a round cutter or glass.
4. Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold over, and seal edges tightly.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pierogi in batches and cook until they float to the top (3–4 minutes).
6. Remove with a slotted spoon, then sauté in a skillet with butter until golden and lightly crispy.
7. Serve warm with sour cream, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs.

Keywords: pierogi, perogies, potato cheese pierogi, homemade pierogi recipe, traditional pierogi, pierogi with cheddar