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Weeknight Pan-Fried Pierogi and Kielbasa
Instructions
1
Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a 12-inch nonstick frying pan over medium-low heat. (If you don’t have a nonstick pan this size, you can use a regular 12-inch or 14-inch frying pan, but add more oil to help prevent sticking.) Add onion, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally with a rubber spatula, until onion is soft and just beginning to brown, 10-12 minutes.
2
Increase heat to medium-high. Add kielbasa to the pan and spread them out, keeping them in direct contact with the pan as much as possible. Cook, stirring and turning kielbasa occasionally, until sausage begins to brown on both sides and is heated through, 4-5 minutes.
3
Add pierogi and water to the pan and cook, covered, until the water has evaporated and a fork can easily pierce through the center of a pierogi, 5-6 minutes. Remove lid and decrease the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 Tbsp. oil and continue cooking uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pierogi are golden brown, about 8 minutes.
4
Spoon the pierogi, kielbasa, and onion onto plates. Scatter parsley on top and serve with a dollop of sour cream and some sauerkraut.
5
My Calorie Intake
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Master the Caramelization 🧅Cook onions low and slow over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop deep sweetness and golden color—this is the flavor foundation of the dish.
- Never Skip the Pan-Searing Step 🔥Cut kielbasa into coins and sear them cut-side down in the pan first to create a caramelized crust that locks in flavor before combining with other ingredients.
- Frozen Pierogi: Cook Directly, No Thawing 🥟Use frozen pierogi straight from the package and pan-fry them in the same skillet—they'll develop a golden crust and won't fall apart like they might if boiled.
- Strategic Sour Cream Placement 🥄Add a dollop of sour cream just before serving or serve it on the side to prevent it from breaking down in the heat and to maintain its cool, creamy contrast.
- Nonstick Pan Is Non-Negotiable 🍳A quality 12-inch nonstick pan prevents delicate pierogi from sticking and tearing while allowing you to achieve perfect browning on all components with minimal oil.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Low Sugar
Low Carb
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
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