Air-Fryer Pierogies: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Pierogies are a type of European dumpling that can be filled with either sweet or savoury fillings and are usually boiled, pan-fried, or deep-fried. However, cooking them in an air fryer is a healthier alternative that gives them a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the filling soft and tender on the inside.

How to make pierogies in an air fryer

Pierogies are a type of European dumpling, traditionally Polish, that can be filled with either sweet or savoury fillings. They are usually boiled, pan-fried, or deep-fried, but can also be cooked in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make pierogies in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Frozen pierogies (any filling)
• Olive or avocado oil (cooking oil spray or melted butter can also be used)
• Optional: Sour cream, caramelised onions, mushrooms, or your favourite dipping sauce

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 390-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Toss the frozen pierogies with oil until they are well coated. Alternatively, you can spray them with cooking oil spray.
• Place the pierogies in the air fryer basket in a single layer to allow hot air to circulate. It is okay if they overlap slightly.
• Cook the pierogies for 5-6 minutes, then flip them over.
• Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are light golden brown and crispy.
• Serve warm with your favourite sauce or dip.

Notes:

• The cooking time may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer, so adjust the timing as needed.
• If you are using fresh pierogies instead of frozen, reduce the cooking time to 8-10 minutes.
• For mini pierogies, the total cooking time is around 8 minutes.

What to serve with pierogies

Pierogies are delicious little dumplings that can be served as a snack, side dish, or main course. They are traditionally served with simple toppings such as sour cream, chives, dill, fried onions, bacon, or melted butter. Here are some ideas for what to serve with pierogies:

As a Side Dish:

• Sour cream: A classic choice that goes well with the crispy texture of air-fried pierogies.
• Horseradish: For those who like a little extra kick, horseradish can be a great accompaniment.
• Dipping sauces: Try your favourite dip or sauce, such as a creamy homemade sauce or a tomato chilli sauce.
• Caramelised onions: Sweet and savoury, caramelised onions add depth of flavour to pierogies.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon bits provide a nice contrast in texture and a salty flavour boost.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing side dish, especially when paired with the Polish cucumber salad, "mizeria."
• Beetroot: Shredded raw beets or beetroot pasta can add a unique earthy flavour and a vibrant colour to the plate.
• Green vegetables: Green beans, peas, or asparagus can provide a healthy balance to the dish.
• Kielbasa: Polish sausage, such as kielbasa, is a classic pairing and can be served baked in the oven or in a skillet with the pierogies.

As a Main Dish:

• Baked chicken with cream of chicken soup: This cheesy baked chicken dish complements the flavours of pierogies and includes extra vegetables like broccoli florets.
• Stuffed salmon: An air fryer stuffed salmon recipe with a ricotta, spinach, and harissa filling is a quick and tasty main dish option.
• Greek yoghurt chicken: This savoury chicken dish topped with sour cream, tzatziki, or green herbs pairs well with pierogies.
• Kielbasa sandwich: A smoked Polish sausage in a sandwich with homemade BBQ sauce is a great snack or side dish to pierogies.
• Slow cooker gammon: Honey-roasted gammon slices complement the flavours of pierogies, especially those filled with sauerkraut, mushroom, cheese, and potato.

There are endless possibilities for what to serve with pierogies, and you can customise your meal according to your preferences. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and creating a delicious feast!

How to store and reheat pierogies

Pierogies are delicious little dumplings with a doughy outside and a variety of fillings, such as potato, cheese, or meat. They are a favourite in many households, but it's important to store and reheat them properly to preserve their distinctive taste and texture.

Storing Pierogies:

Leftover pierogies should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last 3-4 days in the fridge and can be frozen for longer periods, up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, which can negatively impact the flavour and texture, seal them tightly in an airtight container or wrap them securely with plastic cling film.

Reheating Pierogies:

There are several methods to reheat pierogies, each resulting in a slightly different texture. Those who prefer soft and juicy pierogies can use wet heating methods, while those who want crispy pierogies should choose dry heating methods. Here are some of the most common methods:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pierogies on a baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Cover with aluminium foil to prevent drying and bake for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Stovetop (Pot): Fill a pot with hot, salted boiling water. Gently add the pierogies, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Boil for 4-5 minutes until the pierogies are hot throughout.
• Stovetop (Frying Pan): Heat a non-stick frying pan on medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Add the pierogies in a single layer and saute for 4-5 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown.
• Microwave: Place the pierogies in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to trap steam. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking and turning them intermittently, until the centre is hot.
• Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 390-400°F (some recipes suggest 380°F). Toss the frozen pierogies with olive oil or cooking spray until well coated. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until light golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Reheating Pierogies:

• Avoid overcrowding during reheating to ensure even heating and prevent sticking or breaking.
• Defrost frozen pierogies before reheating for more even warming.
• Brush the pierogies with butter or oil to prevent drying out.
• Consider the filling when reheating; pierogies filled with cheese or fruit may require less time than those filled with meat or potatoes.
• Let the pierogies rest for a minute or two after reheating to allow the fillings to settle and the flavours to meld.
• Experiment with toppings such as sour cream, fried onions, applesauce, herbs, bacon, or cheese.

Can you make pierogies without oil?

Yes, you can make pierogies without oil, but they may not be as crispy. Pierogies are traditionally made with unleavened dough, which does not contain oil, and they can be boiled or pan-fried. However, if you want to cook them in an air fryer, it is recommended to toss them in oil or cooking spray first so that they don't stick to the air fryer basket and to achieve a crispy texture.

Pierogi dough is typically made with flour, salt, water, and vegetable oil or butter. The oil or butter adds flavour and makes the dough more pliable and easier to roll out. However, it is possible to make the dough without fat. Some recipes suggest adding sour cream to the dough, but this is not traditional in Poland.

When making pierogies, it is important to ensure that the dough is well-kneaded and allowed to rest before rolling it out. This will make it softer and easier to work with. The filling for pierogies can be savoury or sweet and usually includes potato, cheese, or fruit.

Air frying pierogies is a healthier alternative to pan-frying, as it uses less oil and results in a crispier texture. It is also more convenient than boiling, as there is no need to thaw frozen pierogies first.

How long to cook pierogies in an air fryer

Pierogies are a type of European dumpling, traditionally Polish, that can be filled with either sweet or savoury fillings. They are usually boiled, pan-fried, or deep-fried, but can also be cooked in an air fryer.

To cook pierogies in an air fryer, first preheat the air fryer to a temperature between 380-400°F. Then, toss the pierogies in olive oil or avocado oil (or spray them with non-stick cooking spray) until they are well coated. Place the pierogies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, so that the hot air can circulate.

Cooking times will depend on the size of the pierogies and the strength of the air fryer, but generally, frozen pierogies will take 10-12 minutes to cook, and fresh pierogies will take 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, the pierogies should be turned over. They are ready when they are light golden brown and crispy.

Pierogies can be served with a variety of toppings and dips, such as sour cream, caramelized onions, fried onions and gravy, or creamy sweet chilli sauce.

Frequently asked questions