Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi

Welcome to a world where comfort meets tradition, and every bite is a burst of flavor! Imagine the scene: a cozy kitchen, the aroma of savory pierogi filling the air, and the perfect dish to warm your soul. These Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi are more than just a dish; they’re a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a world of pure delight.

In the spirit of Alex Guarnaschelli’s engaging storytelling, let me paint you a picture. Picture tender, homemade dough wrapped around a creamy filling of mashed potatoes and cheese, boiled to perfection and then sautéed until golden brown. It’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it the star of any gathering. The combination of comforting mashed potatoes and rich, melted cheese creates a unique and irresistible experience that will have your guests coming back for more.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a main course, a side dish, or even as a hearty snack. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to elegant dinner parties.

So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary adventure together. Your taste buds will thank you!

Resume:

These Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi are a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting and traditional dish. The combination of tender dough and a creamy potato and cheese filling creates a unique and irresistible flavor that will impress your guests. It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal effort required, and the result is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The unique selling points of this recipe are its simplicity, delicious taste, and the ability to customize it to your liking.

Exciting Story:

Every time I make these Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi, I’m reminded of the first time I served them at a family gathering. The reactions were priceless—everyone was raving about the flavors and asking for the recipe. It’s become a staple in our home, a dish that we turn to when we want something delicious and impressive, yet effortless to make. Our friends love them too, and they’re always a hit at gatherings. There’s something about the combination of potatoes and cheese that just brings people together, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Why These Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi are a Must-Try

This recipe stands out for several reasons. The tender, homemade dough wrapped around a creamy potato and cheese filling creates a unique and irresistible texture. It’s incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients, and the result is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.

What You Need For Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Optional toppings: sour cream, fried onions, or fresh herbs

How to Make Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the egg, sour cream, and milk. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough gently on a floured surface for about 2 minutes, until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In another bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Pierogi: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch round cutter, cut out circles of dough. Place a spoonful of the potato and cheese filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
4. Cook the Pierogi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently place the pierogi in the boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the top. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain well.
5. Sauté the Pierogi: In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the boiled pierogi and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes on each side.
6. Serve: Transfer the pierogi to a serving dish and top with sour cream, fried onions, or fresh herbs, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips For Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi:

• For an extra cheesy kick, try adding a sprinkle of mozzarella or Gouda to the filling.
• If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to substitute the cheddar with your favorite variety.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Cheese Variations: Use mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Additions: Mix in fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor.
• Filling Variations: Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for extra texture and flavor.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Low Fat: Use low-fat cheese and reduce the amount of butter.
• Low Carb: While potatoes are the star, you can reduce the portion size to manage carb intake.

Closing For Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi:

And there you have it! A delicious and comforting Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Don’t forget to let us know how your pierogi turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions For Cheese & Mashed Potato Pierogi:

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
   • Yes, you can use store-bought pierogi dough for convenience.
2. Can I make these pierogi ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the pierogi ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
3. Can I freeze these pierogi?
   • Yes, you can freeze the pierogi for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   • Yes, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I add more herbs?
   • Absolutely! Adjust the amount of herbs to your taste preferences.
6. Can I make this recipe without a mixer?
   • Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a spoon.
7. Can I use a different type of flour?
   • Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a different texture.
8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
9. Can I add spices to the dough?
   • Yes, a pinch of paprika or garlic powder can add a warm flavor.
10. Can I use a different type of oil?
    • Yes, you can use avocado oil or another neutral-flavored oil.
11. Can I make this recipe in a different size?
    • Yes, you can adjust the ingredient amounts to make larger or smaller pierogi.
12. Can I omit the sour cream in the dough?
    • Yes, but the sour cream adds a nice tang and tenderness to the dough.