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

Pierogies are a type of Eastern European dumpling, traditionally filled with mashed potatoes and cheese, although they can also be stuffed with sweet or savoury fillings such as meat, vegetables or fruit. They are usually boiled or pan-fried, but can you make pierogies in an air fryer?

The answer is yes! Air frying is a great way to cook frozen pierogies, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior. It's healthier than deep frying, as it requires little to no added oil, and it's also a quick and easy way to prepare this dish.

How to cook perogies in an air fryer

How to Cook Pierogies in an Air Fryer

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

Ingredients and Tools:

• Frozen pierogies (any flavour)
• Oil (olive, avocado, peanut, or vegetable oil)
• Air fryer
• Optional: tongs, basting brush, or cooking spray
• Optional: seasonings, toppings, or dips

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F (390°F is ideal, but a range of 380-400°F is fine if your air fryer is not digital).
• Place the frozen pierogies on a baking sheet or plate.
• Coat each pierogi generously with oil on both sides. You can use a basting brush, or toss the pierogies to coat them evenly.
• Arrange the pierogies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Leave ample space between each pierogi for optimal air circulation.
• Set the cooking time for 10-12 minutes at 400°F.
• Halfway through cooking (after 5-6 minutes), flip the pierogies over.
• Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the pierogies are puffed up slightly and golden brown.
• Serve immediately with your favourite toppings or dips.

Tips:

• Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so adjust the temperature or cooking time as needed.
• To avoid splitting, ensure the oil coating is even and do not overcrowd the basket.
• To prevent drying out, check for doneness at the minimum cooking time and do not overcook.
• For the best texture, serve the pierogies immediately after cooking.
• Experiment with various toppings and dips to find your favourite combinations.

What temperature to cook perogies at

Pierogies can be cooked in an air fryer at a temperature of between 340°F and 400°F. The cooking time will vary depending on the desired crispiness, the size of the pierogies, and the brand of the air fryer.

For example, one source recommends cooking pierogies at 340°F for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For crispier pierogies, the temperature can be increased to 400°F and the cooking time adjusted to 8 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Another source recommends preheating the air fryer to 400°F and cooking the pierogies for 8-12 minutes, turning them over halfway through.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the brand and model of the air fryer, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye on the pierogies while they are cooking to ensure they do not burn.

How to get perogies crispy

Pierogies are a type of Eastern European dumpling, traditionally Polish, that can be filled with either sweet or savoury fillings. They are usually boiled or pan-fried, but air frying has become an increasingly popular method of cooking them, as it is healthier, quicker, and less messy.

To get pierogies crispy, you can use an air fryer, which will give them a golden, crispy texture on the outside, while keeping the filling soft and tender. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get crispy pierogies using an air fryer:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 390-400°F (200°C). If your air fryer is not digital, a range of 380-400°F will work fine.

Step 2: Prepare the Pierogies

Place the frozen pierogies on a baking sheet or plate. You can use either fresh, homemade pierogies or store-bought, refrigerated pierogies, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Frozen pierogies will take about 10-12 minutes, while fresh pierogies will take 8-10 minutes. For mini pierogies, the cooking time is reduced to about 8 minutes.

Step 3: Coat the Pierogies in Oil

Coat each pierogi generously with oil on both sides. You can use olive oil, avocado oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil. This will help achieve a crispier texture and prevent sticking. If you are using cooking spray, be aware that some sprays can damage your appliance.

Step 4: Arrange the Pierogies in the Air Fryer Basket

Arrange the pierogies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one for optimal air circulation.

Step 5: Cook the Pierogies

Set the cooking time for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the pierogies over. Cook until they are puffed up slightly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve the pierogies immediately with your favourite toppings or dips. They go well with sour cream, caramelized onions, mushrooms, sausage, cabbage, or vegetables.

Note that cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so you may need to adjust the temperature or cooking time accordingly. Also, be sure to coat the pierogies evenly in oil and not overcrowd the basket to avoid splitting and ensure even cooking.

How to stop perogies from sticking to the air fryer

Perogies are a delicious snack, side dish, or meal. They are a type of Eastern European dumpling, traditionally Polish, with either a savoury or sweet filling. Perogies can be cooked in an air fryer, which is a healthier alternative to deep frying and delivers a crispy texture outside while keeping the filling soft inside.

To stop perogies from sticking to the air fryer, you can coat the basket or tray with a thin layer of cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil. This ensures easy removal and a golden-brown exterior. You can also toss the perogies in oil before placing them in the air fryer. This will make them crispier and prevent them from sticking. It is important to ensure that the perogies are evenly coated and that they are not overlapping or stacking in the air fryer basket, as this will help them cook more evenly.

• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F (200°C).
• Place the perogies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving ample space between each one for optimal air circulation.
• Flip the perogies halfway through the cooking process.
• Cook until the perogies are puffed up slightly and golden brown.
• Serve immediately to maintain the best texture.

What to serve with perogies

Perogies are versatile, so you have plenty of options for toppings and sides. Here are some ideas for what to serve with perogies:

Classic Sides

Perogies are commonly served with sour cream and chives, or with caramelised onions for a rich, sweet touch.

Sweet and Savoury Sides

For a sweet and savoury pairing, serve perogies with apple sauce, or keep it simple with melted butter and a sprinkle of sweet paprika.

Bolder Flavours

For a more adventurous side, try salsa, cream cheese, or French onion dip.

Traditional Polish Toppings

For a traditional Polish meal, top your perogies with caramelised onions, mushrooms, sausage, cabbage, or other vegetables.

Salads

Perogies pair well with a variety of salads, including a Polish cucumber salad called mizeria, or a green goddess-inspired salad.

Hearty Mains

Perogies can also be served as a side dish alongside a hearty main, such as baked chicken with cream of chicken soup, or a kielbasa sandwich.

Vegetable Sides

For a lighter option, serve perogies with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.

Frequently asked questions