Pierogi and Meatball Skillet Creamy
Highlighted under: Warm Plates
A delightful fusion of pierogi and meatballs in a creamy sauce that is sure to please the whole family.
This Pierogi and Meatball Skillet Creamy dish combines the comfort of hearty meatballs with the delightful taste of pierogi. Perfect for a family dinner, it brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy sauce that envelops every bite
- Savory meatballs paired with fluffy pierogi
- Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
Unlocking the Flavor
The creamy sauce in this dish is the star of the show. By using a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth, you create a rich and velvety texture that complements the savory meatballs and soft pierogi perfectly. The addition of dill adds a fresh, aromatic element that brightens the dish, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Cooking the meatballs until they are beautifully browned enhances their flavor, creating a delicious contrast with the creaminess of the sauce. Each bite is an explosion of taste, with the meatballs offering a hearty texture that pairs wonderfully with the tender pierogi. This harmony of flavors is what makes this dish a family favorite.
A One-Pan Wonder
One of the best aspects of this Pierogi and Meatball Skillet is its simplicity. Everything is cooked in a single skillet, which not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, the versatility of this dish is a major plus. You can easily customize the meatballs with different herbs or spices to suit your family's taste preferences. Similarly, feel free to experiment with other types of frozen pierogi, such as cheese or potato varieties, to add your own twist to this delicious meal.
Perfect for Family Gatherings
This dish is not just a quick weeknight meal; it’s also excellent for family gatherings or potlucks. The creamy nature of the dish makes it a comforting option that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it can be prepared in larger quantities without much extra effort, making it easy to serve a crowd.
To elevate the presentation, consider serving the dish in a large, beautiful skillet right at the table. This not only looks inviting but also encourages family-style dining, where everyone can help themselves and enjoy a hearty meal together. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pierogi and Sauce
- 1 package frozen pierogi (about 16 oz)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients and prepare for cooking.
Cooking Instructions
Make the Meatballs
In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and set aside.
Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add dill, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Pierogi
Add frozen pierogi to the skillet and gently stir to coat in the sauce. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until pierogi are heated through.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips for Success
When making the meatballs, ensure not to overmix the ingredients. This will keep them tender and prevent them from becoming tough during cooking. A gentle hand is key to achieving the perfect meatball texture, so mix just until combined.
If you're pressed for time, you can use pre-made meatballs for this recipe. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, and you’ll still enjoy the creamy sauce and pierogi combination with minimal effort.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the leftovers even tastier! When reheating, use a skillet on low heat to prevent the cream from curdling and to maintain the dish's creamy texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and enjoy it within three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh pierogi instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh pierogi will work well, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Pierogi and Meatball Skillet Creamy
A delightful fusion of pierogi and meatballs in a creamy sauce that is sure to please the whole family.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Warm Plates
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pierogi and Sauce
- 1 package frozen pierogi (about 16 oz)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add dill, salt, and pepper.
Add frozen pierogi to the skillet and gently stir to coat in the sauce. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until pierogi are heated through.
Serve hot, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g