Prepare to be swept off your feet by the irresistible aroma and golden crispy texture of these Baked Pierogi (Zapiekane Pierogi). A beloved comfort food in Polish cuisine, these little pockets of deliciousness are filled with a savory blend of potatoes, cheese, and aromatic herbs, then baked to perfection until the dough achieves a delightful crunch. Each bite unveils a burst of flavors that will transport you to the warmth of a traditional Polish kitchen, where the art of crafting hearty and soul-satisfying dishes is a cherished tradition.
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 4-5 pierogi
Genuine Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
Ingredients
- 1 batch of pierogi dough (or 24 pre-made pierogi)
- 2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes, peeled and cooked
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (60g) crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- If using pre-made pierogi, skip to step 4. Otherwise, prepare the pierogi dough according to your preferred recipe.
- Mash the cooked potatoes in a large bowl, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled feta, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well to combine.
- Working with a few at a time, place a heaping tablespoon of the potato filling in the center of each pierogi wrapper.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal the pierogi.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Arrange the pierogi in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or dish.
- Brush the tops of the pierogi with melted butter or olive oil, and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pierogi are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the Crispy Baked Pierogi warm, garnished with additional chopped dill or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For extra crispiness, brush the pierogi with melted butter or olive oil and sprinkle with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as sauerkraut, mushrooms, or ground meat, for a variety of flavors.
- Bake the pierogi on a pizza stone or baking steel for an extra crispy bottom crust.
- Reheat any leftovers in the oven or a skillet to regain their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze the unbaked pierogi?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pierogi for later use. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or ziplock bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I boil the pierogi instead of baking them?
A: Traditionally, pierogi are boiled, but baking them gives them a delightful crispy texture. If you prefer the boiled version, cook them in salted boiling water for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Q: What sides go well with Baked Pierogi?
A: Baked Pierogi pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as sautéed cabbage or sauerkraut, Polish cucumber salad, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a tomato-based sauce for dipping.
As the aroma of crispy, golden Baked Pierogi fills the air, you'll be transported to a realm of comfort and warmth that only Polish cuisine can offer. Each bite unveils a harmonious blend of flavors – the soft, creamy potatoes, the tangy cheese, and the aromatic herbs – all encased in a delightfully crunchy dough. Savor the moment, for this dish is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of tradition, a culinary hug that embraces you with the warmth of a Polish home. Indulge in this comforting delight, and let it nourish not only your body but your soul as well.